The Philly cheesesteak, a culinary icon of the City of Brotherly Love, is a sandwich that has been tantalizing taste buds for over 80 years. With its tender steak, gooey cheese, and crispy bread, it’s a match made in heaven. But what truly elevates this beloved sandwich is the sauce. Ah, the sauce! The unsung hero of the Philly cheesesteak. While some may argue that the beauty of a Philly cheesesteak lies in its simplicity, others know that the right sauce can take it to new heights. So, what sauce goes with Philly cheesesteak?
The Classic: Cheez Whiz
When it comes to Philly cheesesteaks, Cheez Whiz is the OG. This processed cheese spread has been a staple in Philadelphia since the 1950s and is often considered the traditional topping for a Philly cheesesteak. Its creamy, slightly sweet flavor complements the savory steak and cheese perfectly. In fact, many Philly natives would argue that a cheesesteak without Cheez Whiz is not a true Philly cheesesteak.
A Brief History of Cheez Whiz
But where did this beloved spread come from? Cheez Whiz was invented in the 1950s by Kraft Foods as a convenient alternative to traditional cheese. It quickly gained popularity as a dip for crackers and chips, but it wasn’t until it found its way onto the Philly cheesesteak scene that it truly became an icon. Today, Cheez Whiz is still widely used in Philly cheesesteak joints and is a staple in many Philadelphian households.
The Contenders: Alternative Sauces
While Cheez Whiz may be the classic, there are plenty of other sauces that can elevate your Philly cheesesteak game. Here are a few contenders:
A1 Steak Sauce
A1 Steak Sauce is a popular alternative to Cheez Whiz. This savory, slightly sweet sauce is made from a secret blend of herbs and spices and is designed specifically for steak. It adds a depth of flavor to the cheesesteak that Cheez Whiz can’t match.
Hot Peppers
For those who like a little heat in their lives, hot peppers are a great option. Sliced hot peppers add a spicy kick to the cheesesteak that complements the bold flavors of the steak and cheese. They can be used in addition to Cheez Whiz or as a standalone topping.
The Wild Cards: Unconventional Sauces
But what about those who want to shake things up? For the adventurous eater, there are plenty of unconventional sauces that can add a unique twist to the classic Philly cheesesteak.
Marinara Sauce
Marinara sauce, typically associated with Italian cuisine, adds a tangy, slightly sweet flavor to the cheesesteak. It may seem like an unusual choice, but trust us, it works!
Chimichurri
Chimichurri, a Argentinean herb sauce, brings a fresh, bright flavor to the cheesesteak. Its combination of parsley, oregano, garlic, and red pepper flakes adds a complexity to the dish that’s hard to resist.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right Sauce
So, what’s the verdict? What sauce goes with Philly cheesesteak? The answer, of course, is subjective. For traditionalists, Cheez Whiz is the only way to go. But for those looking to mix things up, the options are endless.
| Sauce | |
|---|---|
| Cheez Whiz | The classic, traditional sauce for Philly cheesesteaks. |
| A1 Steak Sauce | A savory, slightly sweet sauce designed for steak. |
| Hot Peppers | Adding a spicy kick to the cheesesteak. |
| Marinara Sauce | A tangy, slightly sweet sauce typically associated with Italian cuisine. |
| Chimichurri | A fresh, bright herb sauce from Argentina. |
Final Thoughts
The Philly cheesesteak is a culinary masterpiece that deserves to be celebrated. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurous eater, the right sauce can take this beloved sandwich to new heights. So go ahead, experiment with different sauces, and find the perfect combination that makes your taste buds sing!
What is the traditional sauce for a Philly cheesesteak?
The traditional sauce for a Philly cheesesteak is Cheez Whiz, a type of processed cheese spread. It’s a staple in Philadelphia and has been a part of the cheesesteak culture for decades. Cheez Whiz adds a creamy, tangy flavor to the cheesesteak that complements the melted cheese and tender steak.
While some may argue that Cheez Whiz is not a “real” cheese, it’s an integral part of the Philly cheesesteak experience. If you’re looking for an authentic taste, Cheez Whiz is the way to go. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with other cheeses like provolone or mozzarella.
What’s the difference between Whiz wit and Whiz without?
Whiz wit and Whiz without are two popular options when ordering a Philly cheesesteak. Whiz wit means the cheesesteak comes with Cheez Whiz and sautéed onions, while Whiz without means it comes with Cheez Whiz but no onions.
The onions add a sweet and savory flavor to the cheesesteak, but some people prefer to leave them out. If you’re not a fan of onions, Whiz without is the way to go. However, if you want the full Philly cheesesteak experience, Whiz wit is the way to go. The sautéed onions add a depth of flavor and texture that complements the cheesesteak perfectly.
Can I use mayonnaise or ketchup on my Philly cheesesteak?
Mayonnaise or ketchup on a Philly cheesesteak? Blasphemy! Just kidding, but seriously, in Philadelphia, it’s a no-go. The traditional Philly cheesesteak joints don’t even offer mayonnaise or ketchup as an option.
That being said, it’s your cheesesteak, and you can top it with whatever you like. If you’re feeling fancy, go ahead and add some mayo or ketchup. However, if you want to stay true to the Philly cheesesteak tradition, stick with Cheez Whiz or another melty cheese.
What’s the best cheese to use if I don’t like Cheez Whiz?
If you’re not a fan of Cheez Whiz, there are plenty of other cheeses you can use on your Philly cheesesteak. Provolone is a popular choice, as it melts well and adds a mild, creamy flavor.
Another option is mozzarella, which adds a slightly sweeter flavor than provolone. You can also experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, American, or even blue cheese if you’re feeling adventurous. Just be sure to slice the cheese thinly so it melts evenly and doesn’t overpower the steak.
Can I use a homemade sauce instead of Cheez Whiz?
If you’re feeling crafty, you can definitely make your own sauce for your Philly cheesesteak. A popular option is a beer cheese sauce made with beer, butter, and cheese.
Another option is a garlic aioli, which adds a rich and creamy flavor to the cheesesteak. You can also experiment with different combinations of cheeses and spices to create your own signature sauce. Just be sure to taste and adjust as you go to ensure the flavor is balanced and delicious.
Do I need to use a specific type of steak for a Philly cheesesteak?
The type of steak used for a Philly cheesesteak is a matter of personal preference, but traditionally, thinly sliced ribeye or top round is used. The key is to slice the steak thinly so it cooks quickly and evenly.
You can also use other types of steak like sirloin or filet mignon, but ribeye and top round are the most traditional options. Be sure to slice the steak against the grain to ensure it’s tender and easy to bite into.
Can I make a veggie Philly cheesesteak?
While traditional Philly cheesesteaks are made with steak, you can definitely make a veggie version. One popular option is to use portobello mushrooms, which have a meaty texture and earthy flavor.
Another option is to use thinly sliced bell peppers or zucchini, which add a sweet and crunchy texture to the cheesesteak. You can also experiment with other vegetarian options like tempeh or seitan. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and method accordingly to ensure the filling is tender and flavorful.