The Philly cheesesteak, a culinary masterpiece born in the City of Brotherly Love, has been a staple of American cuisine for decades. This mouth-watering sandwich, typically consisting of thinly sliced beefsteak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, all piled high on a crusty hoagie roll, is a treat that’s hard to resist. However, a truly satisfying Philly cheesesteak experience isn’t complete without the perfect sides to complement its rich flavors. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of sides that pair perfectly with the iconic Philly cheesesteak.
Classic Sides that Never Go Out of Style
When it comes to traditional Philly cheesesteak sides, there are a few options that stand the test of time. These classic combinations have been enjoyed by locals and visitors alike for generations, and for good reason – they’re simple, delicious, and perfectly complement the bold flavors of the cheesesteak.
French Fries: The Ultimate Comfort Food
French fries are a timeless favorite that pairs perfectly with the Philly cheesesteak. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and salty to a fault, fries are the ultimate comfort food. Whether you prefer them plain, smothered in cheese, or loaded with chili and onions, French fries are a match made in heaven for the Philly cheesesteak.
Coleslaw: A Refreshing Contrast
Coleslaw, with its creamy dressing and crunchy texture, provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheesesteak. A well-made coleslaw can help cut the fattiness of the sandwich, leaving you feeling satisfied but not overwhelmed. Look for a coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and a hint of vinegar for the perfect balance of flavors.
Regional Specialties that Showcase the City’s Diversity
Philadelphia, a city with a rich cultural heritage, offers a diverse range of regional specialties that showcase its unique character. From traditional Italian dishes to classic American comfort food, these regional specialties offer a delicious glimpse into the city’s culinary landscape.
Tomato Pies: A South Philly Staple
Tomato pies, a staple of South Philly’s Italian-American community, are a delicious and unexpected side dish that pairs perfectly with the Philly cheesesteak. These savory pastries, filled with a rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, offer a flavorful contrast to the bold flavors of the cheesesteak.
Baked Beans: A Sweet and Smoky Delight
Baked beans, a classic American side dish, are a sweet and smoky delight that complements the Philly cheesesteak perfectly. Made with navy beans, tomato sauce, and a hint of brown sugar, baked beans offer a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Look for a recipe that uses a combination of pork and beef for added richness.
Modern Twists that Elevate the Classic Combo
In recent years, chefs and food enthusiasts have been experimenting with new and innovative sides that elevate the classic Philly cheesesteak combo. From gourmet mac and cheese to creative salads, these modern twists offer a fresh perspective on traditional sides.
Truffle Mac and Cheese: A Decadent Delight
Truffle mac and cheese, a gourmet twist on the classic comfort food, is a decadent delight that pairs perfectly with the Philly cheesesteak. Made with truffle oil, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of black pepper, this creamy pasta dish offers a rich and indulgent contrast to the bold flavors of the cheesesteak.
Roasted Vegetables: A Light and Refreshing Option
Roasted vegetables, a light and refreshing option, offer a welcome contrast to the richness of the cheesesteak. From Brussels sprouts to broccoli, roasted vegetables are a delicious and healthy side dish that complements the bold flavors of the Philly cheesesteak. Look for a recipe that uses a combination of olive oil, salt, and pepper for added flavor.
International Inspirations that Add a Global Twist
Philadelphia, a city with a rich cultural heritage, offers a diverse range of international inspirations that add a global twist to the classic Philly cheesesteak combo. From Korean BBQ to Mexican street food, these international inspirations offer a flavorful glimpse into the city’s culinary landscape.
Korean Kimchi: A Spicy and Sour Delight
Korean kimchi, a spicy and sour fermented cabbage dish, is a bold and adventurous side that pairs perfectly with the Philly cheesesteak. Made with Korean chili flakes, garlic, and fish sauce, kimchi offers a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Look for a recipe that uses a combination of napa cabbage and radishes for added crunch.
Grilled Corn with Cotija Cheese: A Mexican-Inspired Delight
Grilled corn with Cotija cheese, a Mexican-inspired delight, is a flavorful and refreshing side that complements the Philly cheesesteak perfectly. Made with grilled corn, Cotija cheese, and a hint of lime juice, this side dish offers a sweet and tangy contrast to the bold flavors of the cheesesteak.
| Sides | Description |
|---|---|
| French Fries | Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and salty to a fault, fries are the ultimate comfort food. |
| Coleslaw | A refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheesesteak, coleslaw is made with shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and a hint of vinegar. |
| Tomato Pies | A South Philly staple, tomato pies are savory pastries filled with a rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. |
| Baked Beans | A sweet and smoky delight, baked beans are made with navy beans, tomato sauce, and a hint of brown sugar. |
| Truffle Mac and Cheese | A decadent delight, truffle mac and cheese is made with truffle oil, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of black pepper. |
| Roasted Vegetables | A light and refreshing option, roasted vegetables are made with a combination of olive oil, salt, and pepper. |
| Korean Kimchi | A spicy and sour fermented cabbage dish, kimchi is made with Korean chili flakes, garlic, and fish sauce. |
| Grilled Corn with Cotija Cheese | A Mexican-inspired delight, grilled corn with Cotija cheese is made with grilled corn, Cotija cheese, and a hint of lime juice. |
In conclusion, the Philly cheesesteak is a culinary masterpiece that’s elevated by a wide range of delicious sides. From classic comfort food to international inspirations, these sides offer a flavorful glimpse into the city’s culinary landscape. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurer, there’s a side dish out there that’s sure to complement the iconic Philly cheesesteak. So next time you’re in the City of Brotherly Love, be sure to try one of these delicious sides and experience the ultimate Philly cheesesteak combo.
What is a traditional Philly cheesesteak side dish?
A traditional Philly cheesesteak side dish is often debated among locals, but one of the most popular options is tomato pies. These small, rectangular pizzas are topped with a thick layer of crushed tomatoes, cheese, and various meats or vegetables. They’re a staple in Philadelphia and pair perfectly with the rich flavors of a cheesesteak.
Tomato pies are a great side dish because they offer a nice contrast to the gooey cheese and savory meat of a cheesesteak. The acidity of the tomatoes helps cut through the richness, while the crust provides a satisfying crunch. Plus, they’re easy to eat on the go, making them a popular choice for those grabbing a quick bite at a Philly cheesesteak joint.
What are some popular side dishes that complement the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak?
Some popular side dishes that complement the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak include French fries, onion rings, and coleslaw. French fries add a satisfying crunch and salty flavor that pairs well with the savory meat and cheese of a cheesesteak. Onion rings provide a sweet and crunchy contrast to the richness of the cheesesteak, while coleslaw adds a refreshing coolness.
These side dishes are popular for a reason – they offer a nice balance to the bold flavors of a cheesesteak. French fries and onion rings add a satisfying crunch, while coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast. Plus, they’re all easy to eat on the go, making them perfect for those grabbing a quick bite at a Philly cheesesteak joint.
Can I customize my side dish to suit my taste preferences?
Yes, you can customize your side dish to suit your taste preferences. Many Philly cheesesteak joints offer a variety of toppings and condiments that you can add to your side dish. For example, you can add cheese or bacon bits to your French fries, or top your coleslaw with diced onions or bell peppers.
Customizing your side dish is a great way to make your meal more enjoyable. By adding your favorite toppings or condiments, you can enhance the flavors of your side dish and make it more complementary to your cheesesteak. Plus, it’s a great way to get creative and try new flavor combinations.
What are some unique side dishes that I can try with my Philly cheesesteak?
Some unique side dishes that you can try with your Philly cheesesteak include pickles, sautéed spinach, and grilled vegetables. Pickles add a tangy and sour flavor that pairs well with the richness of a cheesesteak, while sautéed spinach provides a nutritious and flavorful contrast. Grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, add a smoky flavor and crunchy texture.
These unique side dishes offer a nice change of pace from traditional options like French fries and coleslaw. They add a burst of flavor and texture to your meal, and can help balance out the richness of a cheesesteak. Plus, they’re a great way to get your daily dose of fruits and vegetables.
Can I get a side dish that is gluten-free or vegan?
Yes, many Philly cheesesteak joints offer gluten-free or vegan side dish options. For example, you can opt for a side salad or grilled vegetables, which are naturally gluten-free and vegan. Some joints may also offer gluten-free bread or vegan cheese alternatives.
It’s always a good idea to ask your server or the chef about gluten-free or vegan options. They can help guide you through the menu and recommend options that fit your dietary needs. Plus, many joints are happy to accommodate special requests, so don’t be afraid to ask.
How do I choose the perfect side dish to go with my Philly cheesesteak?
To choose the perfect side dish to go with your Philly cheesesteak, consider the flavors and textures you want to complement your meal. If you want something classic and comforting, go for French fries or onion rings. If you want something refreshing and light, opt for coleslaw or a side salad.
You can also consider the type of cheesesteak you’re getting. If you’re getting a classic Philly cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz and steak, you may want a side dish that’s a bit more indulgent, like French fries or onion rings. If you’re getting a more gourmet cheesesteak with unique toppings, you may want a side dish that’s a bit more adventurous, like grilled vegetables or sautéed spinach.
Can I get a side dish to go with my Philly cheesesteak if I’m ordering takeout?
Yes, many Philly cheesesteak joints offer side dishes to go with takeout orders. In fact, some joints may even offer special deals or discounts for takeout orders that include a side dish. When you place your order, simply ask about side dish options and the staff will be happy to guide you through the menu.
Getting a side dish to go with your takeout order is a great way to enhance your meal and make it more enjoyable. Plus, it’s a convenient way to get a complete meal without having to cook or prepare anything yourself. Just be sure to ask about any special instructions or handling for your side dish, such as keeping it warm or cold during transport.