The Philly cheese steak sandwich is a beloved American classic that has been satisfying the cravings of foodies for decades. This mouth-watering delight consists of tender steak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, all piled high on a crusty hoagie roll. While it may seem like a simple sandwich to make, the art of crafting an authentic Philly cheese steak requires some skill and attention to detail. In this article, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of making a genuine Philly cheese steak sandwich that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Philadelphia.
A Brief History of the Philly Cheese Steak
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a brief look at the origins of this iconic sandwich. The Philly cheese steak is believed to have been invented in the 1930s by a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri in South Philadelphia. Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers and construction workers, who would often ask him to add cheese to the sandwich. The combination of the tender steak, melted cheese, and crusty roll proved to be a winning formula, and the Philly cheese steak was born.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
When it comes to making an authentic Philly cheese steak, the quality of the ingredients is paramount. Here are some key ingredients you’ll need to get started:
The Steak
The steak is the star of the show in a Philly cheese steak sandwich. You’ll want to use a thinly sliced cut of beef, such as ribeye or top round. Look for steak that is labeled as “shaved” or “sliced thin,” as this will make it easier to cook and chew.
Why Ribeye is the Best Choice
Ribeye is a popular choice for Philly cheese steaks because of its rich flavor and tender texture. The marbling in the meat (the white flecks of fat that are dispersed throughout the steak) adds flavor and tenderness to the sandwich.
The Cheese
The cheese is a crucial component of the Philly cheese steak, and there are several options to choose from. The most traditional choice is Cheez Whiz, a processed cheese spread that is made by Kraft Foods. However, you can also use sliced cheese, such as provolone or mozzarella, if you prefer.
The Benefits of Using Cheez Whiz
Cheez Whiz is a popular choice for Philly cheese steaks because of its creamy texture and mild flavor. It’s also easy to melt and adds a rich, velvety texture to the sandwich.
The Onions
The onions are a key component of the Philly cheese steak, and they add a sweet and savory flavor to the sandwich. You’ll want to use thinly sliced yellow onions, which are sweeter and milder than white onions.
How to Caramelize Onions
Caramelizing the onions is a crucial step in making a Philly cheese steak. To caramelize the onions, heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark brown and caramelized.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s talk about how to assemble the sandwich. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Slice the Steak
Slice the steak into thin strips, using a sharp knife or a meat slicer. You’ll want to slice the steak against the grain, which means slicing it in the direction of the lines of muscle.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are dark brown and caramelized.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
Add the sliced steak to the pan with the onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich
To assemble the sandwich, place a few slices of the cooked steak onto a hoagie roll. Add a spoonful of the caramelized onions on top of the steak, followed by a slice of cheese. Place the sandwich under the broiler for a few seconds, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your Philly cheese steak game to the next level:
Use a Cast-Iron Skillet
A cast-iron skillet is the perfect pan for making a Philly cheese steak. The skillet retains heat well and can be heated to a high temperature, which is ideal for searing the steak.
Add Some Sauteed Bell Peppers
Sauteed bell peppers add a sweet and crunchy texture to the sandwich. Simply slice the bell peppers thinly and add them to the pan with the onions and steak.
Use a Different Type of Cheese
While Cheez Whiz is the traditional choice for Philly cheese steaks, you can also use sliced cheese, such as provolone or mozzarella. Experiment with different types of cheese to find the one that you like best.
Conclusion
Making a Philly cheese steak sandwich is a simple process that requires some skill and attention to detail. By using high-quality ingredients and following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and authentic Philly cheese steak sandwich that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Philadelphia. Whether you’re a native Philadelphian or just a foodie looking to try something new, the Philly cheese steak is a sandwich that is sure to please.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Steak (ribeye or top round) | 1 pound |
| Cheese (Cheez Whiz or sliced cheese) | 1 cup |
| Onions (yellow) | 1 large onion |
| Hoagie rolls | 4-6 rolls |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
By following the recipe and tips outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to making delicious Philly cheese steak sandwiches that will impress your friends and family. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the rich flavors and textures of this beloved American classic.
What is the origin of the Philly cheese steak sandwich?
The Philly cheese steak sandwich originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the United States. The exact origin is disputed, but it is often attributed to Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor who began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll in the 1930s. Olivieri’s hot dog stand eventually became Pat’s King of Steaks, which is still a popular destination for Philly cheese steak enthusiasts today.
The original Philly cheese steak consisted of thinly sliced steak, sautéed with onions and served on a hoagie roll. Cheese was not a standard ingredient until later, when a taxi cab driver asked Olivieri to add some cheese to his steak sandwich. The combination of melted cheese, tender steak, and crispy bread became a hit, and the Philly cheese steak sandwich was born.
What type of cheese is traditionally used in a Philly cheese steak?
Traditionally, Cheez Whiz is the cheese of choice for a Philly cheese steak. This processed cheese spread was introduced in the 1950s and quickly became a staple in Philadelphia. It melts easily and adds a creamy, tangy flavor to the sandwich. While some variations may use other types of cheese, such as provolone or mozzarella, Cheez Whiz is the authentic choice for a classic Philly cheese steak.
That being said, some modern variations of the Philly cheese steak may use other types of cheese, such as shredded mozzarella or sliced provolone. These cheeses can add a richer, more nuanced flavor to the sandwich, but they are not traditional. If you want to make an authentic Philly cheese steak, Cheez Whiz is the way to go.
What type of steak is best for a Philly cheese steak?
The best type of steak for a Philly cheese steak is thinly sliced ribeye or top round. These cuts of meat are tender and flavorful, with a good balance of fat and lean meat. They are also relatively inexpensive, which makes them a great choice for a casual sandwich like a Philly cheese steak.
When selecting a steak for your Philly cheese steak, look for thinly sliced cuts that are about 1/4 inch thick. You can also ask your butcher to slice the steak for you, or use a meat slicer to get the perfect thin slices. Avoid using high-end cuts of meat, such as filet mignon or New York strip, as they can be too tender and expensive for a Philly cheese steak.
How do I slice the onions for a Philly cheese steak?
The onions for a Philly cheese steak should be sliced thinly and sautéed until they are translucent and caramelized. To slice the onions, use a sharp knife and slice them into thin rings, about 1/4 inch thick. You can also use a mandoline or food processor to get even thinner slices.
When sautéing the onions, use a medium-low heat and cook them for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help to bring out the natural sweetness of the onions and add a depth of flavor to the sandwich. Avoid burning the onions, as this can give the sandwich a bitter flavor.
What type of bread is best for a Philly cheese steak?
The best type of bread for a Philly cheese steak is a crusty Italian roll, also known as a hoagie roll. This type of bread is lightly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a slightly sweet flavor that complements the savory flavors of the steak and cheese.
When selecting a bread for your Philly cheese steak, look for a roll that is about 6-8 inches long and has a slightly crispy crust. You can also toast the bread lightly before assembling the sandwich, which will help to bring out the flavors of the bread and add a crunchy texture.
Can I make a Philly cheese steak in a skillet or on a grill?
While traditional Philly cheese steaks are made on a griddle, you can also make them in a skillet or on a grill. To make a Philly cheese steak in a skillet, use a large skillet with a non-stick surface and cook the steak and onions over medium-high heat. To make a Philly cheese steak on a grill, use a grill pan or a grill mat to cook the steak and onions over medium-high heat.
Regardless of the cooking method, the key to making a great Philly cheese steak is to cook the steak and onions quickly over high heat, which will help to sear the steak and caramelize the onions. This will add a rich, savory flavor to the sandwich that is hard to replicate with lower heat.
Can I customize my Philly cheese steak with different toppings?
While traditional Philly cheese steaks are made with just steak, cheese, and onions, you can customize your sandwich with different toppings to suit your taste. Some popular toppings include bell peppers, mushrooms, and hot peppers, which can add a crunchy texture and a burst of flavor to the sandwich.
When customizing your Philly cheese steak, be careful not to overload the sandwich with too many toppings, as this can make it difficult to eat and overpower the flavors of the steak and cheese. Stick to one or two toppings that complement the flavors of the sandwich, and avoid using toppings that are too wet or messy, such as tomatoes or lettuce.