The Philly cheesesteak sandwich is a culinary icon that has been tantalizing taste buds for decades. This mouth-watering masterpiece is a staple of Philadelphia’s culinary scene, and its popularity has spread far beyond the city limits. But what makes a truly exceptional Philly cheesesteak sandwich? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of this beloved dish, explore the essential ingredients, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make the best Philly cheesesteak sandwich.
A Brief History of the Philly Cheesesteak
The origins of the Philly cheesesteak sandwich are shrouded in mystery, but the most widely accepted story dates back to the 1930s. According to legend, a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers in South Philadelphia. One day, a customer asked Olivieri to add some cheese to the sandwich, and the Philly cheesesteak was born. Olivieri’s humble hot dog stand eventually evolved into Pat’s King of Steaks, which remains one of the most famous cheesesteak joints in Philadelphia to this day.
The Essential Ingredients
A great Philly cheesesteak sandwich starts with high-quality ingredients. Here are the essential components you’ll need:
Meat
- Thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak: Look for steak that’s been sliced to a uniform thickness, preferably 1/16 inch or thinner. This will ensure that the meat cooks evenly and quickly.
Cheese
- Cheez Whiz or provolone cheese: These are the two most traditional cheese options for a Philly cheesesteak. Cheez Whiz is a classic choice, but provolone offers a richer, more nuanced flavor.
Bread
- Amoroso’s or Sarcone’s hoagie rolls: These two Philadelphia bakeries have been supplying cheesesteak joints with their signature rolls for decades. Look for a roll that’s soft, lightly sweetened, and has a subtle crust.
Vegetables
- Sautéed onions and bell peppers: These two vegetables add a depth of flavor and texture to the sandwich. Use a combination of yellow and white onions for a sweeter flavor.
Assembling the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich
Now that we’ve covered the essential ingredients, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Slice the Meat
Slice the ribeye or top round steak into thin strips, using a sharp knife or a meat slicer. Cut against the grain to ensure tender, easy-to-chew meat.
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 caramelized.
Step 3: Cook the Meat
Add the sliced meat to the skillet and cook until it’s browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Use a thermometer to ensure the meat reaches a safe internal temperature of 135°F for medium-rare.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich
Place a few slices of the cooked meat onto the hoagie roll, followed by a spoonful of sautéed onions and bell peppers. Add a slice or two of cheese, depending on your preference.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Place the sandwich under the broiler for a few seconds to melt the cheese and toast the roll. Remove the sandwich from the oven and add a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
Tips and Variations
While the classic Philly cheesesteak recipe is a timeless favorite, there are plenty of ways to mix things up and make the sandwich your own. Here are a few tips and variations to consider:
Use a Cast-Iron Skillet
A cast-iron skillet is the perfect tool for cooking a Philly cheesesteak. The skillet retains heat beautifully and can achieve a nice crust on the meat.
Add Some Spice
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced hot peppers to give the sandwich a spicy kick.
Try a Different Cheese
While Cheez Whiz and provolone are the classic cheese options, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or even blue cheese.
Go Veggie
For a vegetarian twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, try using sliced portobello mushrooms or eggplant instead of meat.
The Best Philly Cheesesteak Joints in Philadelphia
If you’re ever in Philadelphia, be sure to check out some of the city’s most famous cheesesteak joints. Here are a few must-visit spots:
| Restaurant | Address |
|---|---|
| Pat’s King of Steaks | 900 Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19147 |
| Geno’s Steaks | 1219 S 9th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 |
| Jim’s Steaks | 400 South St, Philadelphia, PA 19147 |
Conclusion
The Philly cheesesteak sandwich is a culinary icon that’s easy to make and fun to customize. With its rich history, essential ingredients, and simple assembly process, this sandwich is a must-try for anyone who loves good food. Whether you’re a native Philadelphian or just visiting the city, be sure to try a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich at one of the many famous joints throughout the city.
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. The sandwich is usually topped with melted cheese, such as Cheez Whiz or provolone, and may also include other toppings like ketchup or hot peppers.
The traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwich is a beloved local dish that has gained popularity worldwide. Its origins date back to the 1930s, when a hot dog vendor in Philadelphia began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll. Over time, the sandwich evolved to include cheese and other toppings, becoming the iconic dish we know and love 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 options are Cheez Whiz and provolone. Cheez Whiz is a popular choice because it melts easily and adds a creamy texture to the sandwich. Provolone, on the other hand, provides a richer, more nuanced flavor.
Other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, can also be used on a Philly cheesesteak sandwich. However, they may not melt as well as Cheez Whiz or provolone, and may alter the flavor profile of the sandwich. Ultimately, the choice of cheese will depend on individual taste preferences and the desired level of authenticity.
What is the best type of bread for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich?
The best type of bread for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich is a crusty, slightly sweet Italian roll, also known as a hoagie roll. This type of bread is ideal because it provides a sturdy base for the sandwich, while also absorbing the juices and flavors of the steak and cheese.
A good hoagie roll should be lightly toasted or grilled to give it a crispy texture and a slightly caramelized flavor. This will help to balance out the richness of the cheese and the savory flavor of the steak. Avoid using a soft or fluffy bread, as it may become soggy or fall apart when filled with the sandwich ingredients.
How do I slice the steak for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich?
Slicing the steak thinly is essential for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich. The steak should be sliced against the grain, using a sharp knife or a meat slicer. This will help to create tender, easy-to-chew strips of steak that cook quickly and evenly.
The ideal thickness for the steak slices is about 1/8 inch. This will allow the steak to cook rapidly and develop a nice crust on the outside, while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. Avoid slicing the steak too thickly, as it may be difficult to chew and may not cook evenly.
Can I use other types of meat on a Philly cheesesteak sandwich?
While traditional Philly cheesesteak sandwiches are made with beefsteak, other types of meat can be used as substitutes. Chicken, pork, and even vegetables like portobello mushrooms can be used to create a vegetarian or vegan version of the sandwich.
However, it’s worth noting that using alternative meats may alter the flavor and texture of the sandwich. Beefsteak provides a rich, savory flavor and a tender texture that is difficult to replicate with other meats. If you do choose to use alternative meats, be sure to adjust the cooking time and method accordingly to ensure that the meat is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
How do I assemble a Philly cheesesteak sandwich?
Assembling a Philly cheesesteak sandwich is a straightforward process. Begin by slicing the steak and sautéing it with onions and bell peppers in a hot skillet. Once the steak is cooked, place it onto a hoagie roll and top it with cheese.
Next, add any desired toppings, such as ketchup or hot peppers, and place the sandwich under the broiler to melt the cheese. Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the sandwich from the oven and serve immediately. Be sure to handle the sandwich carefully, as the cheese and steak may be hot and the bread may be crispy.
Can I make a Philly cheesesteak sandwich in advance?
While it’s possible to make a Philly cheesesteak sandwich in advance, it’s generally best to assemble and serve the sandwich immediately. This will help to ensure that the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy, and that the flavors of the sandwich are at their best.
If you do need to make the sandwich in advance, consider preparing the individual components separately and assembling the sandwich just before serving. This will help to prevent the bread from becoming soggy and the cheese from congealing. You can also reheat the sandwich in the oven or under the broiler to melt the cheese and crisp the bread.