The Philly cheesesteak, a culinary icon of Philadelphia, has been a topic of discussion and debate for decades. With its rich history, cultural significance, and mouth-watering flavors, it’s no wonder why this dish has captured the hearts and taste buds of people around the world. But what makes a real Philly cheesesteak? Is it the type of meat, the cheese, the bread, or something else entirely? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the Philly cheesesteak, explore its key components, and uncover the secrets to creating an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience.
A Brief History of the Philly Cheesesteak
The origins of the Philly cheesesteak date back to the 1930s, when a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers in South Philadelphia. According to legend, a customer asked Olivieri to add some cheese to the sandwich, and the Philly cheesesteak was born. Olivieri’s hot dog stand eventually became Pat’s King of Steaks, a legendary eatery that still serves some of the city’s best cheesesteaks to this day.
Over the years, the Philly cheesesteak has evolved and spread throughout the city, with various restaurants and vendors putting their own spin on the classic recipe. However, despite the many variations, the core components of a real Philly cheesesteak have remained relatively unchanged.
The Meat: Thinly Sliced Ribeye or Top Round
When it comes to the meat, a real Philly cheesesteak uses thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak. The steak is typically sliced against the grain, which makes it tender and easy to chew. Some restaurants may use other cuts of meat, such as sirloin or flank steak, but ribeye and top round are the most traditional and widely accepted options.
The Importance of Slicing Against the Grain
Slicing the steak against the grain is crucial to creating a tender and palatable Philly cheesesteak. When meat is sliced with the grain, the fibers can be tough and chewy, making it difficult to bite into. By slicing against the grain, the fibers are cut short, resulting in a more tender and enjoyable eating experience.
The Cheese: Cheez Whiz, Provolone, or White American
The cheese is a critical component of a real Philly cheesesteak, and there are three main options: Cheez Whiz, provolone, and white American. Cheez Whiz is the most iconic and widely used cheese, and it’s a key factor in creating the gooey, stringy texture that Philly cheesesteak enthusiasts love. Provolone and white American are also popular options, but they can change the flavor and texture of the sandwich slightly.
The Controversy Surrounding Cheez Whiz
Cheez Whiz is a polarizing ingredient, with some people swearing by its creamy, tangy flavor and others despising its processed, artificial taste. However, for many Philly cheesesteak purists, Cheez Whiz is an essential component of the sandwich, and it’s hard to imagine a real Philly cheesesteak without it.
The Bread: Amoroso’s or Sarcone’s Hoagie Rolls
The bread is another crucial component of a real Philly cheesesteak, and there are two main options: Amoroso’s and Sarcone’s hoagie rolls. These rolls are specifically designed to hold the juices and flavors of the steak and cheese, and they’re typically soft and lightly toasted.
The Importance of Fresh Bread
Fresh bread is essential to creating a great Philly cheesesteak. Stale or day-old bread can be dry and crumbly, which can ruin the texture and flavor of the sandwich. Amoroso’s and Sarcone’s hoagie rolls are baked fresh daily, and they’re the perfect complement to the steak and cheese.
Assembling the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak
Assembling a real Philly cheesesteak is an art form, and it requires a delicate balance of flavors and textures. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating the perfect Philly cheesesteak:
- Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil.
- Add the steak to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- While the steak is cooking, slice the cheese into thin strips and place it on the hoagie roll.
- Once the steak is cooked, place it on top of the cheese and add any desired toppings, such as sautéed onions or bell peppers.
- Place the hoagie roll under the broiler for a few seconds to melt the cheese and toast the bread.
Conclusion
A real Philly cheesesteak is a culinary masterpiece that requires a delicate balance of flavors and textures. With its rich history, cultural significance, and mouth-watering flavors, it’s no wonder why this dish has captured the hearts and taste buds of people around the world. By using thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak, Cheez Whiz or other high-quality cheese, and fresh Amoroso’s or Sarcone’s hoagie rolls, you can create an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience that will leave you wanting more.
Where to Find the Best Philly Cheesesteaks
If you’re looking to try a real Philly cheesesteak, there are several iconic eateries throughout the city that serve some of the best sandwiches. Here are a few recommendations:
- Pat’s King of Steaks: This legendary eatery has been serving some of the city’s best cheesesteaks since 1930.
- Geno’s Steaks: Located right across the street from Pat’s, Geno’s has been a Philly cheesesteak institution since 1966.
Whether you’re a native Philadelphian or just visiting the city, a real Philly cheesesteak is a culinary experience you won’t want to miss. With its rich history, cultural significance, and mouth-watering flavors, it’s a dish that will leave you wanting more.
What is a traditional Philly cheesesteak?
A traditional Philly cheesesteak is a sandwich made with thinly sliced beefsteak, typically ribeye or top round, and melted cheese, usually Cheez Whiz or provolone. The steak is sautéed with onions and sometimes bell peppers, and served on a crusty Amoroso roll. The combination of flavors and textures has made the Philly cheesesteak a beloved dish in Philadelphia and around the world.
The key to a great Philly cheesesteak is the quality of the ingredients and the way they are prepared. The steak should be sliced thin and cooked to perfection, with a nice sear on the outside and a tender interior. The cheese should be melted to a creamy, gooey consistency, and the roll should be soft and slightly crispy. When all the ingredients come together, the result is a sandwich that is both satisfying and delicious.
Who invented the Philly cheesesteak?
The origin of the Philly cheesesteak is a topic of debate, with several restaurants and individuals claiming to have invented the dish. One story behind the creation of the Philly cheesesteak is that it was invented by a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri in the 1930s. According to this story, Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers and construction workers, who loved the convenient and filling meal.
Another story behind the creation of the Philly cheesesteak is that it was invented by a restaurateur named Steve Prince, who owned a restaurant called Steve’s Prince of Steaks. Prince claims to have invented the Philly cheesesteak in the 1980s, when he began serving steak sandwiches with cheese to his customers. Regardless of who actually invented the Philly cheesesteak, it is clear that the dish has a rich history and has become an iconic part of Philadelphia’s culinary scene.
What type of cheese is traditionally used on a Philly cheesesteak?
Traditionally, Cheez Whiz is the cheese of choice for a Philly cheesesteak. This processed cheese spread has a creamy, melted texture that complements the steak and onions perfectly. However, some restaurants and individuals prefer to use other types of cheese, such as provolone or mozzarella. These cheeses have a milder flavor than Cheez Whiz and can add a nice depth to the sandwich.
In recent years, some restaurants have begun to offer more gourmet cheese options, such as gouda or cheddar. While these cheeses can be delicious, they are not traditional choices for a Philly cheesesteak. For a truly authentic experience, Cheez Whiz or provolone are the way to go.
What is the difference between a Philly cheesesteak and a steak sandwich?
A Philly cheesesteak and a steak sandwich are two distinct dishes, despite both featuring steak as the main ingredient. A steak sandwich typically consists of a thick cut of steak, served on a bun with a variety of toppings such as lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise. In contrast, a Philly cheesesteak features thinly sliced steak, sautéed with onions and sometimes bell peppers, and served on a crusty roll with melted cheese.
The key difference between the two dishes is the way the steak is prepared and presented. A steak sandwich is often served with a thick, juicy cut of steak, while a Philly cheesesteak features thinly sliced steak that is cooked to perfection and melted with cheese. The result is a sandwich that is both flavorful and filling.
Can I customize my Philly cheesesteak with different toppings?
While traditional Philly cheesesteaks are made with steak, cheese, and onions, many restaurants and individuals like to customize their sandwiches with different toppings. Some popular toppings include bell peppers, mushrooms, and hot peppers. These toppings can add a nice depth of flavor and texture to the sandwich, and can help to make it more interesting.
However, it’s worth noting that some purists may frown upon adding too many toppings to a Philly cheesesteak. The traditional recipe is simple and straightforward, and adding too many toppings can detract from the overall flavor and experience of the sandwich. If you’re looking to try a more authentic Philly cheesesteak, it’s best to stick with the traditional ingredients.
Where can I find the best Philly cheesesteak in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is home to many excellent restaurants that serve delicious Philly cheesesteaks. Some of the most famous and highly-recommended spots include Pat’s King of Steaks, Geno’s Steaks, and Steve’s Prince of Steaks. These restaurants have been serving Philly cheesesteaks for decades, and have perfected the recipe.
In addition to these famous spots, there are many other excellent restaurants throughout the city that serve delicious Philly cheesesteaks. Some popular neighborhoods to explore include South Philadelphia, where many of the city’s best cheesesteak joints are located, and Center City, which offers a more upscale take on the traditional dish. Regardless of where you go, be sure to order your cheesesteak with confidence and enjoy the experience.
Can I make a Philly cheesesteak at home?
While it’s possible to make a delicious Philly cheesesteak at home, it can be a bit tricky to replicate the exact flavors and textures of a traditional Philly cheesesteak. The key is to use high-quality ingredients, including thinly sliced steak and fresh cheese. You’ll also need a good skillet or griddle to cook the steak and onions to perfection.
To make a Philly cheesesteak at home, start by slicing a ribeye or top round steak into thin strips. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat, and add a small amount of oil to the pan. Add the steak and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until it is browned and cooked to your liking. Add sliced onions and bell peppers to the pan, and cook until they are softened and caramelized. Serve the steak and onions on a crusty roll with melted cheese, and enjoy.