Growing up in Philadelphia, the Philly cheesesteak was always there. It’s a big part of my food memories. The smell of steak, the cheese, and the bread all bring back happy times.
This Philadelphia sandwich is more than food. It’s a symbol of the city’s culture and hard work. It shows the spirit of Philadelphia, a city known for its kindness and hard work.
Key Takeaways
- Philly cheesesteak is a signature sandwich made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted cheese, and caramelized onions on a soft, crusty roll.
- The sandwich originated in Philadelphia in the 1930s and has become a beloved civic icon and cultural obsession.
- Traditional cheesesteaks use Cheez Whiz, provolone, or white American cheese, but regional variations abound.
- The recipe can be prepared in just 28 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying meal for up to 4 people.
- With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, the Philly cheesesteak is a must-try for any food enthusiast.
What Makes a Traditional Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich
The Philly cheesesteak is a favorite sandwich loved by many. It started in Philadelphia and has become famous worldwide. Its key ingredients make it special.
Essential Components
The base of a Philly cheesesteak is thinly sliced ribeye steak. It’s grilled until perfect and then mixed with melted cheese. Cheez Whiz, provolone, or white American cheese are the top choices.
Authentic Philadelphia Style
Real Philly cheesesteaks don’t have bell peppers. Instead, they use sautéed onions. These onions add sweetness and a caramelized texture.
Regional Variations
While the classic Philly cheesesteak is the best, other places have their own versions. The West Coast adds bell peppers and mushrooms. The East Coast might include ketchup, mayonnaise, or sweet peppers. But these aren’t the traditional cheesesteak of Philadelphia-style sandwich.
“The cheesesteak was developed in the early 20th century in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, by combining frizzled beef, onions, and cheese in a small loaf of bread.”
Despite the variations, the authentic ingredients and the Philadelphia-style sandwich are what make it special.
The Rich History Behind Philadelphia’s Iconic Sandwich
The Philly cheesesteak is a favorite among both locals and tourists. It all started in 1930 with Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor in South Philadelphia. He grilled beef and put it on an Italian roll, creating a sensation that shaped the city’s food scene.
Soon, taxi drivers loved Olivieri’s creation. He opened Pat’s King of Steaks, a place that’s been around for 94 years. The original recipe, with ribeye, onions, and fresh bread, has stayed the same for decades.
In the 1940s, cheese was added to the cheesesteak. Provolone and American cheese were popular, but Cheese Whiz in 1952 made it truly iconic.
As the cheesesteak’s popularity grew, so did the competition. Places like Jim’s Steaks, Angelo’s, Tony Luke’s, and Geno’s joined the scene. Each brought their own twist to the classic.
The rivalry between Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s became famous. It was fueled by the media and had locals fiercely defending their favorite spot. The 1970s and 1980s saw more interest, but local spots remained strong.
Today, the Philly cheesesteak is a symbol of Philadelphia’s pride. Pat’s King of Steaks and others keep this tradition alive.
Selecting the Perfect Cut of Beef
Choosing the right beef is key to a great Philly cheesesteak. The ribeye steak is the top pick, known for its tenderness and rich flavor. It has just the right amount of fat, making it juicy and delicious.
Why Ribeye is King
The ribeye is the best choice for Philly cheesesteaks. It’s tender and has a strong beefy taste. Experts like Michelle Wallace of B’tween Sandwich Co. say it’s the best cut for steak sandwiches.
Alternative Meat Options
While ribeye is the top choice, other cuts work well too. Top round is cheaper, costing under $6 per pound. Sirloin is leaner, and flat iron steak is tender and flavorful. Flank and skirt steak are also great when sliced thin.
Proper Slicing Techniques
Getting the slices right is crucial for a true Philly cheesesteak. Freeze the steak for 30-40 minutes before slicing. This makes it easier to get clean, even slices. Some butchers even pre-slice the steak for you.
“The ribeye is well-regarded for its big beef flavor and tenderness, making it a popular choice for steak sandwiches.”
By picking the right beef and slicing it right, you’ll make a perfect Philly cheesesteak. It will taste just like the real thing.
The Art of Choosing the Right Cheese
The right cheese is key to a great Philly cheesesteak. Provolone, Cheez Whiz, and American cheese are the top picks. Aged provolone is not as popular because it can overpower the other flavors.
Some places in Philadelphia try a Velveeta-like cheese sauce. This adds a rich twist to the classic cheesesteak. Each cheese, like cheesesteak cheese, Cheez Whiz, provolone, and American, gives the sandwich a unique taste.
| Cheese Type | Flavor Profile | Popularity |
|---|---|---|
| Provolone | Mild, creamy | Most popular |
| Cheez Whiz | Smooth, velvety | Widely used |
| American Cheese | Classic, creamy | Commonly found |
| Aged Provolone | Robust, intense | Rarely used |
The choice of cheesesteak cheese is crucial for the flavor and texture of the sandwich. Philly’s cheesesteak lovers take this choice very seriously.
Essential Ingredients and Equipment
Making the perfect Philly cheesesteak needs the right ingredients and tools. From the hoagie rolls to the seasoning blend, each part is crucial. They all work together to bring the authentic taste of Philadelphia to your plate.
The Roll Selection
The hoagie roll is the base of a cheesesteak. These rolls are soft and chewy, holding the steak and cheese perfectly. Choose rolls that are locally baked, with a light crust and a hint of yeast for that classic Philly taste.
Required Kitchen Tools
To make a Philly cheesesteak, you’ll need some key cheesesteak equipment. A sharp knife is essential for slicing the ribeye steak thinly. A large skillet or flat cooktop is needed for cooking the ingredients quickly. And don’t forget a sturdy spatula for handling the toppings and putting the sandwich together.
Seasoning Must-Haves
The seasoning blend makes a cheesesteak truly special. A mix of salt, black pepper, and spices like paprika and chili powder adds depth. Onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, marjoram, and basil balance the flavors. Softened butter and pressed garlic are used to toast the hoagie rolls.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ribeye Steak, trimmed and sliced thin | 2 lb |
| Cache Valley® Creamery Provolone Cheese, sliced | 8 slices |
| Hoagie Rolls, sliced ¾ way through | 4 |
| Black Pepper | 1 tsp |
| Kosher Salt | 2 tsp |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Lemon Juice | 1 Tbsp |
| Canola Oil for Sautéing | 3 Tbsp |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making a real Philly cheesesteak is a fun cooking adventure. It brings the famous Philly sandwich to your home. Follow these steps to make this classic at home.
- Begin by toasting the split hoagie rolls until they’re golden and crispy. This makes a great base for the sandwich.
- In a big skillet, cook the thinly sliced onions over medium-high heat. Let them get a deep, caramelized flavor and texture.
- Then, add the shaved ribeye steak to the skillet. Season it well with salt and pepper. Cook the meat on high heat to get a perfect brown crust on both sides.
- Mix the sautéed onions and the seared steak together. Stir well to spread the flavors evenly.
- Split the steak and onion mix into parts for each sandwich. Place slices of provolone cheese on top of each portion.
- Use a spatula to put the steak, onions, and cheese on the toasted hoagie rolls. This makes the classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich.
This cheesesteak recipe takes about 13 minutes to cook. You’ll also need 15 minutes to prepare. Enjoy this iconic sandwich with your loved ones. It’s a favorite for many generations.
Mastering the Perfect Onion Preparation
For a real Philly Cheesesteak, how you prepare the onions is key. Onions add flavor and texture to the sandwich. To get it right, you need to master caramelization and cutting.
Caramelization Techniques
To get sweet and flavorful onions, you must caramelize them. Cut a large, sweet onion into small pieces. Then, sauté the diced onions in oil over medium heat until they’re soft and golden.
This takes 20-30 minutes, but it’s worth it. The caramelized onions make your Philly Cheesesteak rich and savory.
Proper Cutting Methods
Some like diced onions, while others prefer julienned onions. Julienned onions are cut into thin strips. Both methods are good, as long as the onions are the same size.
This ensures even cooking and flavor. Whether you choose diced onions or julienned onions, cook them until they’re tender and golden. This brings the perfect Philly Cheesesteak to life.
“The secret to a great Philly Cheesesteak lies in the onions. Caramelized and cooked to perfection, they bring a sweetness and depth of flavor that truly sets the sandwich apart.”
Popular Topping Combinations and Variations
The Philly cheesesteak is more than just a sandwich. It’s a symbol of Philadelphia’s culinary spirit. People all over are adding their own twist to this classic. They’re experimenting with cheesesteak toppings and sandwich variations to make it their own.
One favorite is the pizza steak. It adds tomato sauce and mozzarella to the mix. Another hit is the chicken cheesesteak, with grilled or fried chicken instead of beef. And for those looking for something different, vegan cheesesteaks offer plant-based options and dairy-free cheese.
There are also creative toppings like sautéed mushrooms and hot peppers. Some even put the filling in bell peppers or portobello mushrooms for a low-carb option. And don’t forget the cheesesteak sliders, great for sharing or a quick snack.
There’s no end to the ways you can make a Philly cheesesteak your own. Whether you stick to the classic or try something new, there’s a cheesesteak out there for everyone.
How to Order Like a Local in Philadelphia
To order a cheesesteak like a true Philadelphian, you need to know a few key phrases. First, tell them the cheese type. The most common are “Whiz” (Cheez Whiz) or “American.” Then, decide if you want it “wit” (with onions) or “witout” (without onions).
For example, “Whiz wit” means you want it with Cheez Whiz and onions. Mastering this lingo is key for quick ordering at famous spots. Locals keep the line moving by using this short way to order.
After choosing your cheese and onions, say if you want it “here” (to eat there) or “to go.” Learning this local way to order makes you fit right in. It helps you avoid any confusion or delays. Embracing the Philadelphia cheesesteak etiquette is essential for ordering cheesesteak like a true Philadelphia native.