Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and, of course, its iconic dish – the Philly cheese steak. A staple of Philly cuisine, this mouthwatering sandwich has been a topic of discussion among foodies and locals alike for decades. But have you ever wondered, what kind of meat is used for Philly cheese steak? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of Philly cheese steak meat, exploring its origins, types, and more.
A Brief History of Philly Cheese Steak
Before we dive into the meat of the matter, let’s take a step back and explore the origins of this beloved dish. The Philly cheese steak, also known as a Philadelphia cheesesteak or Philly cheesesteak, has a rich history that dates back to the 1930s. The story goes that Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor in South Philadelphia, began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers. One fateful day, a customer asked Olivieri to add some cheese to the sandwich, and the Philly cheese steak was born.
The Classic Philly Cheese Steak Meat: Ribeye or Top Round?
When it comes to the traditional Philly cheese steak, two types of meat are often debated: ribeye and top round. So, which one is the authentic choice?
Ribeye: The Rich and Flavorful Option
Ribeye is a popular cut of beef that comes from the rib section, known for its rich flavor, tender texture, and generous marbling (fat content). This cut is prized for its bold, beefy flavor and velvety texture, making it an ideal choice for Philly cheese steak. Ribeye is typically more expensive than top round, but its rich flavor profile justifies the extra cost.
Top Round: The Lean and Mean Option
Top round, also known as top round steak or London broil, is a leaner cut of beef that comes from the hindquarters of the cow. This cut is known for its firmer texture and slightly sweeter flavor profile compared to ribeye. Top round is often preferred by those who want a slightly healthier option, as it contains less fat than ribeye. However, its leaner nature can make it more prone to drying out if not cooked properly.
Other Meats Used for Philly Cheese Steak
While ribeye and top round are the classic choices, some Philly cheese steak joints experiment with other meats to create unique twists on the traditional recipe.
Flank Steak: A Lean and Flavorful Alternative
Flank steak, a long, lean cut of beef, is often used in Philly cheese steak recipes. It’s known for its robust beef flavor and firm texture, making it an excellent choice for those who want a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
Sirloin Steak: A Tender and Juicy Twist
Sirloin steak, cut from the rear section of the cow, is another popular alternative to ribeye and top round. Sirloin is known for its tender texture and slightly sweet flavor profile, making it an excellent choice for those who want a more indulgent Philly cheese steak experience.
What Makes a Great Philly Cheese Steak Meat?
Regardless of the type of meat used, there are a few key factors that make a great Philly cheese steak.
Thinly Sliced Meat
Thinly sliced meat is essential for a great Philly cheese steak. Thin slices allow for even cooking, ensuring that the meat is cooked to perfection and the cheese melts beautifully.
High-Quality Meat
Using high-quality meat is crucial for a great Philly cheese steak. Look for meats with good marbling (fat content), as this will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the final product.
Proper Cooking Techniques
Proper cooking techniques are vital for a great Philly cheese steak. Cheesesteak enthusiasts swear by the importance of grilling or sautéing the meat quickly over high heat to achieve that perfect sear.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Philly Cheese Steak Meat
Whether you’re a Philly native or just a cheesesteak enthusiast, here are some tips for choosing the perfect Philly cheese steak meat:
Know Your Cuts
Familiarize yourself with the different cuts of beef available, including ribeye, top round, flank steak, and sirloin. This will help you make an informed decision when choosing your Philly cheese steak meat.
Consider Your Flavor Profile
Think about the flavor profile you want for your Philly cheese steak. If you prefer a richer, bolder flavor, opt for ribeye or flank steak. If you prefer a leaner option with a slightly sweeter flavor, top round or sirloin might be the way to go.
Look for Quality
When selecting your Philly cheese steak meat, look for high-quality options with good marbling (fat content). This will ensure that your final product is tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
Conclusion
The age-old question, “What kind of meat is used for Philly cheese steak?” has been debated among cheesesteak enthusiasts for decades. While ribeye and top round remain the classic choices, other meats like flank steak and sirloin are gaining popularity. Whether you’re a Philly native or just looking to try a new culinary adventure, understanding the different types of meat used for Philly cheese steak will elevate your cheesesteak game. So, go ahead, experiment with different meats, and find your perfect Philly cheese steak!
What is Philly cheese steak meat?
Philly cheese steak meat is a type of thinly sliced beefsteak that is typically used to make the iconic Philly cheesesteak sandwich. It is cut from the ribeye or top round of beef and is known for its tender, juicy texture and rich flavor. The meat is usually sliced very thin, which makes it easy to cook quickly and evenly.
The quality of the Philly cheese steak meat can vary depending on the butcher or supplier, but good-quality meat should be fresh, lean, and free of excessive fat or gristle. Some butchers may also offer different grades of Philly cheese steak meat, such as “premium” or “deluxe,” which may indicate a higher level of quality or marbling.
What is the best cut of beef for Philly cheese steak meat?
The best cut of beef for Philly cheese steak meat is a matter of debate among butchers and chefs. Traditionally, Philly cheesesteaks are made with thinly sliced ribeye, which is prized for its rich flavor and tender texture. However, some butchers and chefs prefer to use top round, which is leaner and more affordable than ribeye.
Regardless of the cut, the key to good Philly cheese steak meat is to choose a cut that is well-marbled, meaning it has a good balance of fat and lean meat. This will help to keep the meat juicy and flavorful when it’s cooked. It’s also important to choose a cut that is well-aged, as this will help to develop the complex flavors and textures that are characteristic of high-quality Philly cheese steak meat.
How do I slice Philly cheese steak meat?
Slicing Philly cheese steak meat is an art that requires some skill and practice. The key is to slice the meat very thinly, against the grain, using a sharp knife or meat slicer. This will help to ensure that the meat cooks quickly and evenly, and that it’s tender and easy to chew.
When slicing Philly cheese steak meat, it’s important to slice in one direction, following the natural grain of the meat. This will help to break down the fibers of the meat and make it more tender and easy to chew. It’s also important to slice the meat when it’s cold, as this will help to prevent it from tearing or shredding.
What is the difference between Philly cheese steak meat and steak?
Philly cheese steak meat and steak are not the same thing, although they are both made from beef. Steak is typically a thicker, more substantial cut of beef that is served on its own or with a sauce or seasoning. Philly cheese steak meat, on the other hand, is a thinly sliced cut of beef that is specifically designed to be used in cheesesteak sandwiches.
The main difference between Philly cheese steak meat and steak is the way it’s cut and prepared. Steak is usually cut into thicker slabs or medallions, which are then cooked to a desired level of doneness. Philly cheese steak meat, on the other hand, is sliced very thin and cooked quickly over high heat, which helps to bring out its natural flavors and textures.
Can I use Philly cheese steak meat for other dishes?
While Philly cheese steak meat is specifically designed for making cheesesteak sandwiches, it can be used in a variety of other dishes. Its thin, tender slices make it perfect for stir-fries, salads, and pasta dishes, and it can also be used in soups, stews, and casseroles.
Some other ideas for using Philly cheese steak meat include making cheesesteak wraps or pinwheels, using it in place of bacon or sausage in breakfast dishes, or adding it to omelets or frittatas. The meat’s mild flavor and tender texture also make it a great addition to vegetarian or vegan dishes, where it can be used to add protein and flavor.
How do I store Philly cheese steak meat?
Philly cheese steak meat should be stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below. It’s best to store the meat in a sealed container or plastic bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. This will help to prevent the meat from drying out or becoming contaminated by other flavors or odors.
If you won’t be using the Philly cheese steak meat within a few days, you can also consider freezing it. To freeze the meat, simply place it in an airtight container or plastic bag, making sure to label it with the date and contents. Frozen Philly cheese steak meat can be stored for up to 6-8 months, and can be thawed and used as needed.
Is Philly cheese steak meat expensive?
The cost of Philly cheese steak meat can vary depending on the quality, cut, and source of the meat. In general, high-quality Philly cheese steak meat from a reputable butcher or supplier can be more expensive than lower-quality options from a supermarket or discount store.
On average, a pound of high-quality Philly cheese steak meat might cost anywhere from $10 to $20 or more, depending on the cut and quality. However, it’s worth noting that a little bit of Philly cheese steak meat can go a long way, especially when it’s sliced thin and cooked to perfection. With a little creativity and experimentation, you can make a delicious and authentic Philly cheesesteak sandwich without breaking the bank.