Philly cheesesteak is a traditional dish from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that has been around since the 1930s. This iconic sandwich is made with thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and a variety of toppings, all piled onto a hoagie roll. Visitors to Philadelphia often make it a point to try an authentic Philly cheesesteak, as it is one of the city’s most well-known culinary contributions.
However, the debate over what truly constitutes an “authentic” Philly cheesesteak has long been a point of contention among locals and tourists alike. Some argue that the only true cheesesteak must be made with Cheez Whiz, while others insist on using provolone or American cheese. There are also differing opinions on which toppings should be used, and even how the meat itself should be prepared. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation methods that make up a true Philly cheesesteak.
The history of the Philly cheesesteak and its cultural significance in Philadelphia
The Philly cheesesteak is a beloved culinary icon in the city of Philadelphia. It is a sandwich made with thinly sliced steak, traditionally served on a hoagie roll, topped with melted cheese and often onions or other condiments. The history of the Philly cheesesteak can be traced back to the 1930s, when slices of beef were cooked on a griddle and served on a roll to workers in the South Philadelphia area.
However, credit for the creation of the cheesesteak as we know it today is often given to Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor who began grilling slices of steak with onions and serving them on a roll in the 1940s. The sandwich became increasingly popular and soon became a staple of Philadelphia cuisine. Today, the Philly cheesesteak is a cultural icon of the city, with both locals and visitors alike seeking out the best spots to grab an authentic sandwich.
The difference between a cheesesteak and a hoagie sandwich
Many people mistakenly believe that a cheesesteak is just a variation of a hoagie sandwich. However, the two are distinct dishes with different compositions. A Philly cheesesteak sandwich consists of thinly sliced beef, usually rib-eye, that is griddled on a flat-top grill. It is then placed on a long roll and topped with melted cheese, typically provolone or Cheez Whiz. Onions are usually added, either cooked into the beef or grilled separately, depending on the recipe.
On the other hand, a hoagie sandwich is made with Italian meats, such as ham, salami, and capicola, on a long roll with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and sometimes peppers or pickles. Typically, hoagies do not include melted cheese or a hot meat filling. While the two sandwiches may share some similarities, they are not interchangeable, and fans of Philly cheesesteaks will quickly tell you that there is no substitute for the authentic, meaty, and cheesy goodness of a true Philly cheesesteak.
Breaking down the ingredients: the perfect roll, meat, cheese, and toppings
When it comes to making the ultimate Philly cheesesteak, the quality of each ingredient is of utmost importance. Starting with the perfect roll, it should be soft on the inside with a slightly crispy exterior. The bread used should also be fresh and not too thick, so it doesn’t overpower the rest of the ingredients. The classic choice is an Italian-style roll, but some opt for seeded rolls or even sourdough.
The meat used is usually thinly sliced ribeye, but other cuts like top round or sirloin can be used as well. The meat is cooked on a flat-top grill and chopped up into small pieces, which helps ensure it’s cooked evenly and gives each bite a perfect mix of juicy meat and crispy edges. The cheese of choice is commonly Cheez Whiz, but American or provolone can also be used. Toppings like sautéed onions, sweet or hot peppers, and mushrooms add extra flavor and texture to this classic sandwich. When it comes to putting together an authentic Philly cheesesteak, it’s all about finding the perfect combination of these high-quality ingredients.
The controversy over Cheez Whiz vs. Provolone cheese
When it comes to authentic Philly Cheesesteaks, the type of cheese used is a hotly debated topic. Some aficionados swear by Cheez Whiz, a processed cheese product that has a strong following in Philadelphia. Others are partial to provolone cheese, a semi-hard Italian cheese that is melted over the steak.
While Cheez Whiz has long been associated with Philly Cheesesteaks, its use is not without controversy. Some argue that the synthetic cheese product detracts from the full flavor of the steak, while others contend that it is an essential ingredient that must be present for a true Philly Cheesesteak experience. On the other hand, provolone cheese is milder in flavor compared to Cheez Whiz, but it is favored by many for its authentic and natural taste.
In the end, the choice between Cheez Whiz and provolone cheese comes down to personal preference. Whatever your preference, it is important to remember that the cheese is an integral part of the Philly Cheesesteak experience, and the debate will continue to rage on for years to come.
Vegan and vegetarian options for enjoying a Philly cheesesteak
While the traditional Philly cheesesteak is made with thinly sliced beef and melted cheese, there are plenty of vegan and vegetarian options for those who want to enjoy this iconic sandwich. One popular option is to use seitan, a plant-based protein, in place of beef. Seitan can be sliced thin and cooked to mimic the texture of meat, giving the sandwich a similar taste and mouthfeel to the original. Another option is to use mushrooms as the main filling. Marinated and sautéed mushrooms can provide a meaty texture and a rich, savory flavor that complements the cheese and bread.
For those who are looking to avoid cheese altogether, there are plenty of alternative options. Vegan cheese can be used in place of traditional cheese, and there are also cheese-like sauces made from nuts or nutritional yeast that can be used to top the sandwich. Other toppings, such as peppers, onions, and lettuce, can be added for extra flavor and freshness. With so many delicious options available, it’s easy to enjoy a Philly cheesesteak even if you don’t eat meat or dairy products.
The best places to try an authentic Philly cheesesteak in Philadelphia
When it comes to trying an authentic Philly cheesesteak, there’s no better place to go than Philadelphia. The city is packed with restaurants and food stands serving up this iconic culinary creation, so it can be hard to know where to start. Luckily, there are a few standout spots that are well worth a visit.
One of the most popular places for cheesesteaks is Pat’s King of Steaks, a South Philadelphia institution that’s been around since 1930. Another top pick is Geno’s Steaks, located just across the street from Pat’s. Other notable options include Jim’s Steaks, which has several locations throughout the city, and Dalessandro’s Steaks and Hoagies in Roxborough. No matter where you choose to go, be prepared for large crowds and some seriously hearty eats.
Fun facts and trivia about the Philly cheesesteak
Fun facts and trivia about the Philly cheesesteak will surely enhance your knowledge about this iconic dish. The Philly cheesesteak was invented by two Italian immigrants, Pat and Harry Olivieri, in the 1930s. Initially, they sold hot dogs, but one day they decided to make a sandwich with beef and onions, which turned out to be a game-changer. The sandwich was an instant hit and slowly gained popularity beyond their shop.
Today, the Philly cheesesteak is an essential part of Philadelphia’s culture and economy, and its fame has spread worldwide. In fact, in 1992, Philadelphia declared the Philly cheesesteak its official sandwich. While the classic cheesesteak consists of thinly sliced ribeye steak and onions on a hoagie roll with melted cheese, variations of the sandwich have also become popular in recent years, such as chicken cheesesteak, veggie cheesesteak, and even a sushi cheesesteak.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, the authentic Philly Cheesesteak is a sandwich that has gained popularity across the world. It originated in Philadelphia and has a simple but unique recipe that includes thinly sliced ribeye beef, onions, and delicious cheese. The key to making an authentic Philly Cheesesteak lies in the balance of ingredients, cooking techniques, and the type of bread used.
When it comes to ordering a Philly Cheesesteak, it is essential to remember that there are several variations that may be offered. These may include the addition of sauces, vegetables, and toppings that may not be present in the original recipe. Regardless of the variation, it is important to know the ingredients that make up an authentic Philly Cheesesteak. This will help you make an informed decision when ordering this iconic sandwich.