The cheesesteak, a culinary icon of Philadelphia, has been a topic of debate among food enthusiasts for decades. One of the most contentious issues surrounding this beloved sandwich is the type of cheese used in its creation. Specifically, was the original cheesesteak made with Cheese Whiz, that processed, bright orange spread that has become synonymous with the dish? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the cheesesteak, explore the origins of Cheese Whiz, and separate fact from fiction to finally put this debate to rest.
The Birth of the Cheesesteak
To understand the origins of the cheesesteak, we must travel back to the early 20th century, when South Philadelphia’s Italian immigrant community was thriving. In the 1930s, a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri began selling thinly sliced steak sandwiches to local taxi cab drivers. Olivieri’s shop, Pat’s King of Steaks, quickly gained popularity, and the steak sandwich became a staple of the community.
According to Olivieri’s family, the original cheesesteak was born when a customer, a local cab driver, asked Olivieri to add some cheese to his sandwich. Olivieri responded by adding some sliced cheese to the sandwich, and the cheesesteak was born. This anecdote has been passed down through generations, but it raises an important question: what type of cheese did Olivieri use in that fateful sandwich?
The Rise of Cheese Whiz
In the early 1950s, a new cheese product hit the market: Cheese Whiz. Developed by Kraft Foods, Cheese Whiz was a processed cheese spread made from a blend of natural cheese, milk, and whey. Its bright orange color and creamy texture made it an instant hit with consumers, who loved its convenience and ease of use.
Cheese Whiz quickly became a staple in many American households, particularly in the Philadelphia area. Its popularity was fueled by clever marketing campaigns, including the now-iconic “Cheese Whiz, the Quick and Easy Cheese Spread” jingle.
A Match Made in Heaven?
It’s around this time that Cheese Whiz began to be associated with the cheesesteak. Many Philadelphians claim that Cheese Whiz was the original cheese used in Pat’s King of Steaks, citing its convenience and affordability. However, this claim is disputed by Olivieri’s family, who maintain that they always used sliced cheese, such as provolone or mozzarella.
So, when did Cheese Whiz become the go-to cheese for cheesesteaks? The answer lies in the 1960s and 1970s, when the cheesesteak began to gain popularity beyond Philadelphia. As the sandwich spread throughout the country, so did the use of Cheese Whiz as a convenient and cost-effective alternative to sliced cheese.
The Debate Rages On
Despite the widespread use of Cheese Whiz in cheesesteaks, many Philadelphians remain loyal to traditional sliced cheese. In fact, some argument that the use of Cheese Whiz is a sacrilege, an affront to the original recipe.
Philadelphia Inquirer food critic Craig LaBan weighed in on the debate, stating, “Cheese Whiz is a travesty, a processed abomination that has no place in a genuine Philly cheesesteak.” LaBan’s sentiments are echoed by many locals, who argue that the bright orange spread overpowers the delicate flavor of the steak.
However, others argue that Cheese Whiz is an integral part of the cheesesteak’s appeal. “It’s nostalgic, it’s comfort food,” says Philly.com contributor Drew Lazor. “Cheese Whiz is a part of the cheesesteak’s DNA.”
Separating Fact from Fiction
So, what’s the truth? Was the original cheesesteak made with Cheese Whiz? The answer, unfortunately, is a resounding “no.” Pat Olivieri’s family has consistently denied the use of Cheese Whiz in their original recipe, and historical records support their claim.
In a 2003 interview with the Philadelphia Daily News, Pat Olivieri’s son, Rick, stated, “We never used Cheese Whiz. We used real cheese, provolone or mozzarella.” This claim is corroborated by a 1965 Philadelphia Inquirer article, which describes the cheesesteak as “a juicy steak sandwich served with sliced cheese, onions, and peppers.”
The Verdict
While Cheese Whiz may have become synonymous with the cheesesteak, it’s clear that the original recipe did not include the processed cheese spread. Instead, the classic Philly cheesesteak features thinly sliced steak, sautéed with onions and peppers, and served on a crusty roll with melted, sliced cheese.
So, the next time you order a cheesesteak, remember to ask for sliced cheese – and skip the Cheese Whiz. Your taste buds (and Pat Olivieri’s family) will thank you.
| Cheesesteak Style | Cheese Used |
|---|---|
| Classic Philly | Sliced cheese (provolone, mozzarella, or white American) |
| Modern Philly | Cheese Whiz |
In conclusion, the debate over whether the original cheesesteak was made with Cheese Whiz has been a contentious issue for decades. While Cheese Whiz may have become a popular alternative, the evidence suggests that the classic Philly cheesesteak features sliced cheese. So, next time you bite into a juicy cheesesteak, remember the rich history and tradition behind this beloved sandwich – and the importance of using real cheese.
What is the origin of the cheesesteak?
The origin of the cheesesteak is a topic of much debate, but it is widely believed to have been invented in the 1930s by a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. According to legend, Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers, and eventually added cheese to the sandwich.
Olivieri’s hot dog stand eventually grew into a full-fledged restaurant, Pat’s King of Steaks, which is still open today and is widely regarded as one of the best places to get a cheesesteak in Philadelphia. Over time, the cheesesteak spread throughout the city and became a beloved local culinary staple.
What is Cheese Whiz?
Cheese Whiz is a brand of processed cheese spread that was introduced in the 1950s. It is a type of pasteurized cheese product that is made from a blend of natural cheese, milk, and whey, among other ingredients. Cheese Whiz has a smooth, creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor that is often used as a dip for crackers or as an ingredient in recipes.
While some people love Cheese Whiz, others despise it, and it has become a divisive ingredient in the world of cheesesteaks. Some purists argue that Cheese Whiz is not “real” cheese and has no place in a traditional cheesesteak, while others see it as a convenient and tasty alternative to melted cheese.
Did Pat Olivieri use Cheese Whiz in the original cheesesteak?
There is no definitive answer to this question, as the original recipe used by Pat Olivieri has been lost to history. However, according to some accounts, Olivieri did use a type of processed cheese spread in his early cheesesteaks, although it is not clear whether this was specifically Cheese Whiz.
Regardless of whether or not Olivieri used Cheese Whiz, it is worth noting that the concept of using a processed cheese spread in a cheesesteak was not unusual for the time period. In the mid-20th century, processed cheese products like Cheese Whiz and Velveeta were widely available and commonly used in cooking.
What type of cheese is traditionally used in a cheesesteak?
Traditionally, a cheesesteak is made with thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and melted cheese, all served on a hoagie roll. The type of cheese used can vary, but the most common options are Cheez Whiz, provolone, or mozzarella.
In recent years, some cheesesteak vendors have begun to offer more artisanal options, such as using high-end cheeses like truffle gouda or fontina. However, for many Philadelphians, the traditional combination of thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and melted Cheez Whiz remains the ultimate comfort food.
Is it sacrilegious to put Cheese Whiz on a cheesesteak?
To some people, putting Cheese Whiz on a cheesesteak is a culinary abomination, and they argue that it is a lazy and inauthentic way to make a cheesesteak. Others see it as a convenient and delicious way to add cheese to a sandwich.
Ultimately, whether or not it is “sacrilegious” to put Cheese Whiz on a cheesesteak is a matter of personal opinion. However, for many Philadelphians, a cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz is the only way to go.
Can I make a cheesesteak with other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheez Whiz and provolone are the most traditional cheesesteak cheeses, there is no rule that says you can’t experiment with other types of cheese. In fact, some cheesesteak vendors offer a wide range of cheese options, from spicy pepper jack to creamy brie.
Feel free to get creative and try out different cheeses to find the combination that you like best. Just be prepared for some Philadelphians to give you grief if you stray too far from the traditional formula.
Is the cheesesteak a uniquely Philadelphian culinary tradition?
Yes, the cheesesteak is closely associated with Philadelphia and is often seen as a quintessential Philly food. While cheesesteaks can be found in other cities and towns, the combination of thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and melted cheese on a hoagie roll is a unique culinary tradition that is deeply rooted in Philadelphia’s cultural heritage.
From Pat’s King of Steaks to Geno’s Steaks, Philadelphia is home to a wide range of cheesesteak joints, each with their own unique take on the classic recipe. Whether you’re a native Philadelphian or just visiting the city, a cheesesteak is a must-try culinary experience.