The Philly steak sandwich, a culinary icon of Philadelphia, has been a staple of American cuisine for decades. This mouth-watering sandwich consists of thinly sliced beefsteak, sautéed with onions and bell peppers, and served on a hoagie roll with melted cheese. In this article, we will delve into the history of the Philly steak sandwich, its evolution, and most importantly, provide a step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect Philly steak sandwich.
A Brief History of the Philly Steak Sandwich
The origins of the Philly steak sandwich date back to the 1930s in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. According to legend, a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers. The sandwich quickly gained popularity, and Olivieri’s hot dog stand eventually became Pat’s King of Steaks, a renowned restaurant that still serves some of the city’s best Philly steak sandwiches.
Over time, the Philly steak sandwich has undergone several transformations, with various restaurants and chefs adding their own twist to the classic recipe. However, the core ingredients have remained the same: thinly sliced beefsteak, sautéed onions and bell peppers, and melted cheese on a hoagie roll.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to choose the right ingredients. Here are some key components to look for:
Beefsteak
The type of beefsteak used in a Philly steak sandwich is crucial. Look for thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak, preferably cut against the grain. You can also use other cuts of beef, such as sirloin or flank steak, but ribeye and top round are the most traditional choices.
Why Thinly Sliced Beefsteak Matters
Thinly sliced beefsteak is essential for a Philly steak sandwich because it allows for even cooking and prevents the steak from becoming too chewy. When sliced against the grain, the steak becomes more tender and easier to chew.
Onions and Bell Peppers
Onions and bell peppers are a crucial component of the Philly steak sandwich. Look for thinly sliced yellow onions and green bell peppers. You can also use other colors of bell peppers, such as red or orange, but green is the most traditional choice.
Why Sautéed Onions and Bell Peppers Matter
Sautéed onions and bell peppers add a depth of flavor and texture to the Philly steak sandwich. They also help to balance out the richness of the cheese and steak.
Cheese
Cheese is a vital component of the Philly steak sandwich. Look for melted provolone or Cheez Whiz, which are the most traditional choices. You can also use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, but provolone and Cheez Whiz are the most authentic options.
Why Melted Cheese Matters
Melted cheese helps to bind the ingredients together and adds a creamy texture to the sandwich. Provolone and Cheez Whiz are the most popular choices because they melt well and add a rich, savory flavor.
Cooking the Perfect Philly Steak Sandwich
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, it’s time to cook the perfect Philly steak sandwich. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Slice the Beefsteak
Slice the beefsteak against the grain into thin strips. You can use a meat slicer or a sharp knife to get the job done.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Bell Peppers
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers and sauté until they’re softened and lightly browned.
Step 3: Add the Beefsteak
Add the sliced beefsteak to the skillet and cook until it’s browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich
Assemble the sandwich by placing the cooked beefsteak and sautéed onions and bell peppers onto a hoagie roll. Add a slice of cheese and place the sandwich under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you take your Philly steak sandwich to the next level:
Use a Cast-Iron Skillet
A cast-iron skillet is ideal for cooking a Philly steak sandwich because it retains heat well and can achieve a nice crust on the steak.
Add Some Spice
Add some spice to your Philly steak sandwich by sprinkling a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced hot peppers onto the steak.
Use a Different Type of Cheese
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, to add a unique flavor to your Philly steak sandwich.
Add Some Fresh Herbs
Add some fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to the sandwich for a bright and refreshing flavor.
Conclusion
The Philly steak sandwich is a culinary icon that has been a staple of American cuisine for decades. By following this guide, you can create the perfect Philly steak sandwich that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Remember to choose the right ingredients, cook the steak to your desired level of doneness, and add some melted cheese to bind everything together. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be making Philly steak sandwiches like a pro in no time.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beefsteak | 1 pound |
| Onions | 1 large onion |
| Bell Peppers | 2 large bell peppers |
| Cheese | 4 slices |
| Hoagie Rolls | 4 rolls |
By following this recipe and using the right ingredients, you’ll be able to create a delicious Philly steak sandwich that’s sure to become a favorite.
What is a traditional Philly steak sandwich?
A traditional Philly steak 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. The sandwich is often associated with the city of Philadelphia and is a popular dish in many restaurants and eateries throughout the city.
The traditional Philly steak sandwich is made with thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak, which is sliced into thin strips and sautéed with sliced onions and bell peppers. The sandwich is typically served on a crusty hoagie roll, which is lightly toasted to give it a crispy texture. The combination of the tender steak, sautéed onions and bell peppers, and crispy roll makes for a delicious and satisfying sandwich.
What type of steak is best for a Philly steak sandwich?
The best type of steak for a Philly steak sandwich is thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak. These cuts of steak are tender and have a good balance of flavor and texture. Ribeye steak is particularly well-suited for Philly steak sandwiches because it has a lot of marbling, which gives it a rich and beefy flavor.
When selecting a steak for a Philly steak sandwich, look for thinly sliced cuts that are about 1/4 inch thick. This will ensure that the steak cooks quickly and evenly, and that it is tender and easy to bite into. Avoid using thick cuts of steak, as they can be tough and chewy.
How do I slice the steak for a Philly steak sandwich?
To slice the steak for a Philly steak sandwich, use a sharp knife to slice the steak into thin strips. Slice the steak against the grain, which means slicing it in the direction of the lines of muscle in the meat. This will help to make the steak more tender and easier to chew.
When slicing the steak, try to make the slices as uniform as possible so that they cook evenly. You can also slice the steak while it is still slightly frozen, as this will make it easier to slice thinly and evenly.
What is the best way to cook the steak for a Philly steak sandwich?
The best way to cook the steak for a Philly steak sandwich is to sauté it in a hot skillet with some oil and butter. This will help to give the steak a crispy crust on the outside, while keeping it tender and juicy on the inside.
To cook the steak, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil and butter. Once the oil and butter are hot, add the sliced steak to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
What toppings are traditional on a Philly steak sandwich?
Traditional toppings on a Philly steak sandwich include sautéed onions and bell peppers, as well as melted cheese. The cheese is typically Cheez Whiz, which is a type of processed cheese spread that is popular in Philadelphia.
In addition to the traditional toppings, some people also like to add other toppings to their Philly steak sandwiches, such as ketchup, mustard, and pickles. However, these toppings are not traditional and are not typically found on a classic Philly steak sandwich.
How do I assemble a Philly steak sandwich?
To assemble a Philly steak sandwich, start by slicing a hoagie roll in half and toasting it lightly. Then, add a layer of sautéed steak to the roll, followed by a layer of sautéed onions and bell peppers. Finally, add a layer of melted cheese to the top of the sandwich.
Once the sandwich is assembled, place it under the broiler for a few seconds to melt the cheese and toast the roll. Then, remove the sandwich from the oven and serve it hot.
Can I make a Philly steak sandwich at home?
Yes, you can make a Philly steak sandwich at home. To make a Philly steak sandwich at home, you will need a few basic ingredients, including thinly sliced steak, onions, bell peppers, cheese, and a hoagie roll. You will also need a skillet and a broiler to cook the sandwich.
To make a Philly steak sandwich at home, simply follow the same steps that you would use to make a Philly steak sandwich in a restaurant. Slice the steak thinly and sauté it in a hot skillet with some oil and butter. Then, add the sautéed onions and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until they are tender. Finally, assemble the sandwich by placing the steak and vegetables on a toasted hoagie roll and topping with melted cheese.