The Philly cheesesteak sandwich is a beloved American classic that has been satisfying the taste buds of meat lovers for decades. This mouth-watering sandwich consists of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, all piled high on a crusty hoagie roll. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of making the perfect Philly cheesesteak sandwich, just like the ones you’d find in the streets of Philadelphia.
A Brief History of the Philly Cheesesteak
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a brief look at the history of the Philly cheesesteak. The origins of this iconic sandwich are shrouded in mystery, but it’s widely believed to have been invented in the 1930s by a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri. Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers in South Philadelphia, and the Philly cheesesteak was born.
The Essential Ingredients
To make a truly authentic Philly cheesesteak sandwich, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak
- 4 hoagie rolls
- 4 slices of cheese (such as Cheez Whiz or provolone)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
The Cheese: A Crucial Component
The cheese is a crucial component of the Philly cheesesteak sandwich, and there are several options to choose from. Cheez Whiz is a popular choice, as it melts easily and adds a creamy texture to the sandwich. Provolone is another popular option, as it has a mild flavor and a smooth texture. Whichever cheese you choose, make sure to slice it thinly so that it melts evenly.
Preparing the Steak
The steak is the star of the show in a Philly cheesesteak sandwich, so it’s essential to prepare it correctly. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice the steak into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Season the steak with salt and pepper to taste.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter.
- Once the butter has melted, add the steak to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking the Onions
The onions are a crucial component of the Philly cheesesteak sandwich, as they add a sweet and savory flavor to the dish. Here’s how to cook them:
- Slice the onion into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter.
- Once the butter has melted, add the onion to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it’s softened and translucent.
- Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that the steak and onions are cooked, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here’s how to do it:
- Slice the hoagie rolls in half and place them on a baking sheet.
- Add a slice of cheese to the bottom half of each roll.
- Add a few slices of steak to each roll, followed by a spoonful of onions.
- Place the top half of the roll on each sandwich and place the baking sheet under the broiler.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your Philly cheesesteak sandwich to the next level:
- Use a cast-iron skillet to cook the steak and onions, as it retains heat well and adds a crispy texture to the dish.
- Add some sliced bell peppers or mushrooms to the skillet with the onions for added flavor and nutrition.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Add some hot peppers or hot sauce to the sandwich for an extra kick of heat.
Conclusion
The Philly cheesesteak sandwich is a beloved American classic that’s easy to make and fun to eat. With its tender steak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, it’s a sandwich that’s sure to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. Whether you’re a native Philadelphian or just a fan of the sandwich, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the delicious taste of the City of Brotherly Love.
What is a traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwich?
A traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwich is a type of sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It typically consists of thinly sliced beefsteak, sautéed with onions and bell peppers, and served on a hoagie roll with melted cheese. The cheese is usually Cheez Whiz, provolone, or mozzarella, and the sandwich is often served hot and toasted.
The traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwich is a staple of Philadelphia cuisine and is often associated with the city’s rich history and culture. The sandwich is said to have been invented in the 1930s by a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri, who began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers. Over time, the sandwich gained popularity and evolved into the iconic dish we know today.
What type of cheese is best for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich?
The type of cheese best suited for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich is a matter of personal preference. However, the most traditional and popular cheese options are Cheez Whiz, provolone, and mozzarella. Cheez Whiz is a classic choice and is often considered the most authentic option, while provolone and mozzarella offer a slightly more upscale and melty alternative.
When choosing a cheese for your Philly cheesesteak sandwich, consider the flavor profile and texture you prefer. If you like a strong, tangy cheese, Cheez Whiz may be the way to go. If you prefer a milder, creamier cheese, provolone or mozzarella may be a better option. Ultimately, the type of cheese you choose will depend on your personal taste preferences and the overall flavor profile you’re aiming to achieve.
What type of bread is best for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich?
The type of bread best suited for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich is a crusty, slightly sweet Italian roll, often referred to as a hoagie roll. This type of bread is ideal because it provides a sturdy base for the sandwich and helps to hold all the fillings in place. The crusty texture also adds a nice crunch and texture contrast to the soft, cheesy filling.
When selecting a bread for your Philly cheesesteak sandwich, look for a roll that is lightly toasted and has a slightly crispy crust. You can also consider using a French baguette or a similar type of bread, but a traditional Italian roll is the most authentic option. Avoid using a soft, fluffy bread, as it may become soggy and fall apart when filled with the juicy steak and cheese.
How do I slice the steak for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich?
Slicing the steak for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich is an important step that requires some skill and attention to detail. The steak should be sliced thinly, against the grain, using a sharp knife. This will help to ensure that the steak is tender and easy to chew.
To slice the steak, start by freezing it for about 30 minutes to firm it up. Then, use a sharp knife to slice the steak into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. Slice the steak against the grain, which means slicing in the direction of the lines of muscle. This will help to break down the fibers and make the steak more tender.
How do I cook the steak for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich?
Cooking the steak for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich is a quick and easy process that requires some basic cooking skills. The steak should be cooked in a hot skillet with some oil and butter, and then sautéed with sliced onions and bell peppers. This will help to add flavor and texture to the steak.
To cook the steak, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil and butter. Add the sliced steak to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Then, add sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet and sauté for another 2-3 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly browned.
Can I make a Philly cheesesteak sandwich with chicken or other meats?
While traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwiches are made with beef, it is possible to make variations using chicken or other meats. Chicken cheesesteak sandwiches are a popular alternative, and can be made by substituting chicken breast for the beef. Other meats, such as pork or lamb, can also be used to make a Philly-style cheesesteak sandwich.
When making a Philly cheesesteak sandwich with chicken or other meats, keep in mind that the cooking time and method may vary. Chicken, for example, may need to be cooked for a shorter amount of time than beef, and may require a lower heat to prevent drying out. Experiment with different meats and cooking methods to find the combination that works best for you.
How do I assemble a Philly cheesesteak sandwich?
Assembling a Philly cheesesteak sandwich is a simple process that requires some basic assembly skills. The sandwich should be built in the following order: steak, cheese, onions and bell peppers, and finally the top bun. This will help to ensure that the cheese is melted and the fillings are evenly distributed.
To assemble the sandwich, start by placing a few slices of steak on the bottom bun. Then, add a slice or two of cheese, followed by a spoonful of sautéed onions and bell peppers. Finally, place the top bun on the sandwich and serve immediately. You can also add additional toppings, such as ketchup or hot peppers, to suit your taste.