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. While it may seem like a simple dish, making the perfect Philly cheesesteak sandwich requires some skill and attention to detail. In this article, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of creating this iconic sandwich, from selecting the right ingredients to cooking the perfect steak.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
The key to making a great Philly cheesesteak sandwich is using high-quality ingredients. Here are some tips for selecting the best ingredients for your sandwich:
Meat
The star of the show in a Philly cheesesteak sandwich is the steak. You’ll want to choose a thinly sliced cut of beef that’s tender and flavorful. Some popular options include:
- Ribeye: This cut is known for its rich flavor and tender texture, making it a popular choice for Philly cheesesteak sandwiches.
- Top round: This cut is leaner than ribeye, but still packed with flavor and tender enough to slice thinly.
- Sirloin: This cut is another popular choice for Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, with a slightly firmer texture than ribeye or top round.
What to Look for When Buying Steak
When buying steak for your Philly cheesesteak sandwich, look for the following:
- Thinly sliced: You’ll want to choose steak that’s been sliced thinly, so it cooks quickly and evenly.
- Fresh: Make sure the steak is fresh and has a good color to it. Avoid steak that’s been sitting out for too long or has a strange odor.
- Grass-fed: Grass-fed beef is generally leaner and more flavorful than grain-fed beef, making it a great choice for Philly cheesesteak sandwiches.
Cheese
The cheese is another crucial component of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich. You’ll want to choose a cheese that melts well and adds flavor to the sandwich. Some popular options include:
- Cheez Whiz: This classic Philly cheesesteak cheese is a staple for a reason. It melts well and adds a creamy, tangy flavor to the sandwich.
- Provolone: This mild, smooth cheese is another popular choice for Philly cheesesteak sandwiches. It melts well and adds a buttery flavor to the sandwich.
- Mozzarella: This mild, creamy cheese is a great choice for Philly cheesesteak sandwiches. It melts well and adds a rich, velvety texture to the sandwich.
What to Look for When Buying Cheese
When buying cheese for your Philly cheesesteak sandwich, look for the following:
- Fresh: Make sure the cheese is fresh and has a good color to it. Avoid cheese that’s been sitting out for too long or has a strange odor.
- High-quality: Choose a high-quality cheese that’s made with real ingredients and has a good flavor to it.
Onions
The onions are a crucial component of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich, adding a sweet and savory flavor to the sandwich. You’ll want to choose a sweet onion, such as a Vidalia or a yellow onion, and slice it thinly so it cooks quickly and evenly.
What to Look for When Buying Onions
When buying onions for your Philly cheesesteak sandwich, look for the following:
- Fresh: Make sure the onions are fresh and have a good color to them. Avoid onions that are wilted or have a strange odor.
- Sweet: Choose a sweet onion, such as a Vidalia or a yellow onion, for the best flavor.
Hoagie Rolls
The hoagie roll is the foundation of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich, providing a crusty base for the steak, cheese, and onions. You’ll want to choose a high-quality hoagie roll that’s fresh and has a good texture to it.
What to Look for When Buying Hoagie Rolls
When buying hoagie rolls for your Philly cheesesteak sandwich, look for the following:
- Fresh: Make sure the hoagie rolls are fresh and have a good color to them. Avoid hoagie rolls that are stale or have a strange odor.
- Crusty: Choose a hoagie roll with a crusty texture, as this will provide a nice base for the sandwich.
Cooking the Perfect Steak
Now that you’ve selected the right ingredients, it’s time to cook the perfect steak. Here are some tips for cooking the perfect steak for your Philly cheesesteak sandwich:
Slicing the Steak
Before you start cooking the steak, you’ll need to slice it thinly. You can use a meat slicer or a sharp knife to slice the steak into thin strips.
Tips for Slicing the Steak
Here are some tips for slicing the steak:
- Slice against the grain: This will help the steak cook more evenly and make it more tender.
- Slice thinly: You’ll want to slice the steak into thin strips, so it cooks quickly and evenly.
Cooking the Steak
Once you’ve sliced the steak, it’s time to cook it. You can use a skillet or a grill to cook the steak, depending on your preference.
Tips for Cooking the Steak
Here are some tips for cooking the steak:
- Use high heat: You’ll want to use high heat to cook the steak quickly and evenly.
- Cook for a short amount of time: You’ll want to cook the steak for a short amount of time, so it stays tender and juicy.
- Use a thermometer: Use a thermometer to ensure the steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that you’ve cooked the perfect steak, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here are some tips for assembling the perfect Philly cheesesteak sandwich:
Adding the Cheese
The cheese is a crucial component of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich, adding flavor and creaminess to the sandwich. You can add the cheese to the sandwich in a variety of ways, including:
- Melting the cheese: You can melt the cheese in the skillet with the steak and onions, or in the oven on top of the sandwich.
- Adding sliced cheese: You can add sliced cheese to the sandwich, such as provolone or mozzarella.
Tips for Adding the Cheese
Here are some tips for adding the cheese:
- Use a high-quality cheese: Choose a high-quality cheese that melts well and adds flavor to the sandwich.
- Add the cheese at the right time: You’ll want to add the cheese at the right time, so it melts evenly and doesn’t overpower the other flavors in the sandwich.
Adding the Onions
The onions are a crucial component of a Philly cheesesteak sandwich, adding a sweet and savory flavor to the sandwich. You can add the onions to the sandwich in a variety of ways, including:
- Sautéing the onions: You can sauté the onions in the skillet with the steak, or in a separate pan.
- Adding raw onions: You can add raw onions to the sandwich, such as thinly sliced yellow onions.
Tips for Adding the Onions
Here are some tips for adding the onions:
- Use a sweet onion: Choose a sweet onion, such as a Vidalia or a yellow onion, for the best flavor.
- Add the onions at the right time: You’ll want to add the onions at the right time, so they cook evenly and don’t overpower the other flavors in the sandwich.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that you’ve added the cheese and onions, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here are some tips for assembling the perfect Philly cheesesteak sandwich:
- Use a crusty hoagie roll: Choose a crusty hoagie roll that’s fresh and has a good texture to it.
- Add the steak: Add the cooked steak to the sandwich, making sure to slice it thinly and evenly.
- Add the cheese and onions: Add the cheese and onions to the sandwich, making sure to distribute them evenly.
Tips for Assembling the Sandwich
Here are some tips for assembling the sandwich:
- Use a generous amount of cheese: You’ll want to use a generous amount of cheese, so it melts evenly and adds flavor to the sandwich.
- Add the onions at the right time: You’ll want to add the onions at the right time, so they cook evenly and don’t overpower the other flavors in the sandwich.
Serving and Enjoying Your Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich
Now that you’ve assembled the perfect Philly cheesesteak sandwich, it’s time to serve and enjoy it. Here are some tips for serving and enjoying your sandwich:
Serving the Sandwich
You can serve the sandwich in a variety of ways, including:
- Serving it hot: You can serve the sandwich hot, straight from the oven or skillet.
- Serving it cold: You can serve the sandwich cold, such as at a picnic or outdoor gathering.
Tips for Serving the Sandwich
Here are some tips for serving the sandwich:
- Use a generous amount of cheese: You’ll want to use a generous amount of cheese, so it melts evenly and adds flavor to the sandwich.
- Add the onions at the right time: You’ll want to add the onions at the right time, so they cook evenly and don’t overpower the other flavors in the sandwich.
Enjoying Your Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich
The best part of making a Philly cheesesteak sandwich is enjoying it. Here are some tips for enjoying your sandwich:
- Eat it slowly: You’ll want to eat the sandwich slowly, savoring the flavors and textures.
- Enjoy it with a drink: You can enjoy the sandwich with a drink, such as a soda or a beer.
Tips for Enjoying Your Sandwich
Here are some tips for enjoying your sandwich:
- Use a high-quality cheese: Choose a high-quality cheese that melts well and adds flavor to the sandwich.
- Add the onions at the right time: You’ll want to add the onions at the right time, so they cook evenly and don’t overpower the other flavors in the sandwich.
By following these tips and techniques, you’ll be able to make the perfect Philly cheesesteak sandwich. Remember to choose high-quality ingredients, cook the steak to perfection, and assemble the sandwich with care. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be enjoying delicious Philly cheesesteak sandwiches in no time.
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.