The Philly cheesesteak, a culinary icon of Philadelphia, has been a staple of American cuisine for decades. This mouth-watering sandwich, composed of tender steak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, has captured the hearts and taste buds of food enthusiasts worldwide. But what makes a Philly cheesesteak taste like a genuine Philly cheesesteak? Is it the type of steak used, the cheese, the cooking technique, or something more intangible? In this article, we’ll delve into the history, ingredients, and preparation methods that contribute to the distinctive flavor and character of this beloved sandwich.
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 restaurant, Pat’s King of Steaks, still operates today, and it’s often credited as the birthplace of the Philly cheesesteak.
Over time, the Philly cheesesteak gained popularity throughout the city, with other restaurants and street vendors offering their own versions. One of the most famous rivalries in the history of the Philly cheesesteak is between Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks, a restaurant located directly across the street from Pat’s. This rivalry has contributed to the evolution of the Philly cheesesteak, with each establishment offering its own unique twist on the classic recipe.
The Anatomy of a Philly Cheesesteak
So, what makes a Philly cheesesteak a Philly cheesesteak? The answer lies in the combination of ingredients and the way they’re prepared.
The Steak
The type of steak used in a Philly cheesesteak is crucial to its flavor and texture. Traditionally, Philly cheesesteaks are made with 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 steak, such as sirloin or flank steak, but ribeye and top round remain the most popular choices.
Steak Slicing Techniques
The way the steak is sliced is also important. A good Philly cheesesteak should have steak that’s sliced into thin strips, almost like a julienne cut. This allows the steak to cook quickly and evenly, while also making it easy to chew. Some restaurants may use a meat slicer to slice the steak, while others may slice it by hand.
The Cheese
Cheese is an essential component of a Philly cheesesteak, and the type of cheese used can greatly impact the flavor. The most traditional cheese used in Philly cheesesteaks is Cheez Whiz, a processed cheese spread that’s been a staple in Philadelphia for decades. Other popular cheese options include provolone, mozzarella, and white American.
Cheese Melting Techniques
The way the cheese is melted is also crucial to the flavor and texture of a Philly cheesesteak. Some restaurants may use a cheese melter or a broiler to melt the cheese, while others may simply place the cheese on top of the steak and let it melt from the heat of the meat.
The Onions
Sautéed onions are a key component of a Philly cheesesteak, adding a sweet and savory flavor to the sandwich. The onions are typically sliced thinly and sautéed in a pan with some oil until they’re soft and translucent.
Onion Cooking Techniques
The way the onions are cooked can greatly impact the flavor of the Philly cheesesteak. Some restaurants may caramelize the onions, which brings out their natural sweetness, while others may simply sauté them until they’re soft.
The Bread
The bread used in a Philly cheesesteak is typically a hoagie roll, which is a type of Italian bread that’s crusty on the outside and soft on the inside. The bread is usually lightly toasted or grilled to give it a crispy texture.
Bread Toasting Techniques
The way the bread is toasted can greatly impact the flavor and texture of the Philly cheesesteak. Some restaurants may use a toaster or a broiler to toast the bread, while others may simply grill it on the stovetop.
Cooking Techniques
The cooking technique used to prepare a Philly cheesesteak is also crucial to its flavor and texture. Here are some common cooking techniques used in Philly cheesesteak preparation:
Grilling
Grilling is a popular cooking technique used in Philly cheesesteak preparation. The steak is typically grilled on a flat-top grill or a griddle, which gives it a nice sear and a crispy texture.
Grilling Tips
To achieve a nice sear on the steak, it’s essential to preheat the grill to high heat. The steak should be cooked for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches the desired level of doneness.
Sautéing
Sautéing is another popular cooking technique used in Philly cheesesteak preparation. The steak is typically sautéed in a pan with some oil until it’s cooked to the desired level of doneness.
Sautéing Tips
To achieve a nice crust on the steak, it’s essential to use a hot pan and a small amount of oil. The steak should be cooked for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches the desired level of doneness.
Regional Variations
While the traditional Philly cheesesteak is a staple of Philadelphia cuisine, there are many regional variations throughout the city. Here are some popular variations:
Whiz Wit
A “Whiz Wit” is a Philly cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz and onions. This is the most traditional variation and is often considered the gold standard of Philly cheesesteaks.
Provolone Without
A “Provolone Without” is a Philly cheesesteak with provolone cheese and no onions. This variation is popular among those who don’t like onions or prefer a milder flavor.
Chicken Cheesesteak
A chicken cheesesteak is a variation that uses chicken instead of steak. This is a popular option for those who don’t eat red meat or prefer a leaner protein.
Conclusion
The Philly cheesesteak is a culinary icon that’s rich in history and flavor. By understanding the ingredients, cooking techniques, and regional variations that contribute to its distinctive taste, we can appreciate the complexity and nuance of this beloved sandwich. Whether you’re a native Philadelphian or just visiting the city, a genuine Philly cheesesteak is a must-try experience that’s sure to leave you wanting more.
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| Steak | Thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak, sliced against the grain |
| Cheese | Cheez Whiz, provolone, mozzarella, or white American cheese |
| Onions | Thinly sliced onions, sautéed in a pan with oil until soft and translucent |
| Bread | Hoagie roll, lightly toasted or grilled to give it a crispy texture |
In conclusion, the Philly cheesesteak is a culinary masterpiece that’s rich in history, flavor, and cultural significance. By understanding the ingredients, cooking techniques, and regional variations that contribute to its distinctive taste, we can appreciate the complexity and nuance of this beloved sandwich.
What is a Philly cheesesteak?
A Philly cheesesteak is a popular American sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It typically consists of thinly sliced beefsteak, sautéed with onions and bell peppers, and served on a crusty roll with melted cheese. The combination of flavors and textures has made the Philly cheesesteak a beloved dish around the world.
The authenticity of a Philly cheesesteak lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. A traditional Philly cheesesteak should be made with thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak, which is then sautéed with sliced onions and bell peppers. The cheese, typically Cheez Whiz or provolone, is melted on top of the steak, and the sandwich is served on a crusty Amoroso roll.
Who invented the Philly cheesesteak?
The origin of the Philly cheesesteak is often disputed, but the most widely accepted story credits a South Philadelphia hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri. In the 1930s, Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers and construction workers. The sandwich quickly gained popularity, and Olivieri’s restaurant, Pat’s King of Steaks, became a Philadelphia institution.
However, another restaurant, Geno’s Steaks, which is located right across the street from Pat’s, also claims to be the birthplace of the Philly cheesesteak. Geno’s was founded by Joey Vento in 1966, and it has been serving cheesesteaks ever since. Regardless of who actually invented the Philly cheesesteak, both Pat’s and Geno’s are must-visit destinations for anyone looking to try an authentic Philly cheesesteak.
What type of cheese is traditionally used on a Philly cheesesteak?
Cheez Whiz is the most traditional cheese used on a Philly cheesesteak. This processed cheese spread was introduced in the 1950s and quickly became a staple in Philadelphia. It has a creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the beef and onions perfectly.
However, some Philly cheesesteak joints also offer other types of cheese, such as provolone or white American. Provolone is a mild, smooth Italian cheese that melts well and adds a rich flavor to the sandwich. White American is another popular option, as it melts easily and has a mild, creamy flavor.
Can I customize my Philly cheesesteak?
While traditionalists may argue that a Philly cheesesteak should only be made with certain ingredients, many modern restaurants and vendors offer customization options. Some popular variations include adding mushrooms, bacon, or jalapeños to the sandwich. You can also ask for different types of cheese or request that the onions and bell peppers be cooked to your liking.
However, if you’re looking for an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience, it’s best to stick with the traditional ingredients. Order your cheesesteak “wit” (with onions) or “without” (without onions), and specify the type of cheese you prefer. Don’t be afraid to ask for ketchup or hot peppers on the side, either.
What is the best way to eat a Philly cheesesteak?
The best way to eat a Philly cheesesteak is to dig in immediately, while the cheese is still melted and the bread is still warm. Take a big bite, and let the flavors and textures meld together in your mouth. Be prepared for a messy experience, as the cheese and juices can drip out of the sandwich.
If you’re eating at a traditional Philly cheesesteak joint, be sure to follow local etiquette. Order your cheesesteak at the counter, and wait for your number to be called. When you pick up your sandwich, be prepared to eat it quickly and efficiently. Don’t be afraid to get a little messy – it’s all part of the Philly cheesesteak experience.
Can I make a Philly cheesesteak at home?
Yes, you can make a Philly cheesesteak at home, but it may not be exactly the same as the ones you find in Philadelphia. To get the most authentic flavor, use high-quality ingredients, such as thinly sliced ribeye steak and fresh onions and bell peppers. Use a crusty roll, such as an Amoroso roll, and melt the cheese to perfection.
To get the cheese to melt correctly, use a broiler or a grill to toast the roll and melt the cheese. You can also use a panini press or a grill pan to get a crispy crust on the bread. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and cooking techniques to find your perfect Philly cheesesteak.
What is the cultural significance of the Philly cheesesteak?
The Philly cheesesteak is more than just a sandwich – it’s a cultural icon that represents the city of Philadelphia. It’s a symbol of the city’s rich history and its working-class roots. The Philly cheesesteak has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and songs, and it’s a must-try destination for anyone visiting Philadelphia.
The Philly cheesesteak has also become a source of civic pride, with many locals fiercely defending their favorite cheesesteak joints and arguing over who makes the best sandwich. Whether you’re a native Philadelphian or just visiting, the Philly cheesesteak is a culinary experience that you won’t soon forget.