When it comes to iconic American dishes, the Philly cheesesteak is widely recognized as one of them. This legendary sandwich consists of grilled, sliced beef and melted cheese, served atop a crusty roll. But what is the most common cheese used on a Philly cheesesteak?
Traditionally, the cheese of choice for a Philly cheesesteak has been provolone. However, as the popularity of the sandwich has spread beyond the Philadelphia area, other types of cheese have come to be used as well. In this article, we will explore the most common cheese options for the Philly cheesesteak and the unique flavor profiles they bring to the table.
The History of the Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly cheesesteak is an iconic sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in the 1930s. The sandwich is made with thinly sliced beefsteak that is cooked on a griddle, topped with melted cheese, and served on a hoagie roll. The most common cheese used on the sandwich is Cheez Whiz, but provolone and American cheese are also popular choices.
The origins of the Philly cheesesteak are somewhat disputed, but the most widely accepted story is that it was first created by Pat and Harry Olivieri, two brothers who owned a hot dog stand in South Philadelphia. They decided to experiment with sliced beef and grilled onions, which they served on a roll. The sandwich became an instant hit with their customers and they started to exclusively sell the Philly cheesesteak. It quickly became a staple of the Philadelphia culinary scene and has since become a popular dish in other parts of the country as well.
Different Types of Cheese Used on a Philly Cheesesteak
Philadelphia’s famous sandwich, the cheesesteak, typically features thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions, and melted cheese. While the most common cheese used on a Philly cheesesteak is easy to guess, there are several options to choose from. Depending on personal preference and regional traditions, different types of cheese can be used to add flavor and texture to this iconic sandwich.
Traditionally, the most common cheese used on a Philly cheesesteak is Cheez Whiz. The gooey, processed cheese sauce adds texture and flavor to the sandwich, and is known for its ability to melt quickly when poured over the hot meat and onions. However, in recent years, provolone and American cheese have also become popular choices, offering a creamier and milder taste. Some places even offer Swiss cheese, mozzarella cheese, or pepper jack cheese to switch things up. Ultimately, the type of cheese selected will depend on individual tastes and preferences.
The Debate: Cheez Whiz or Provolone?
The controversy over the best cheese for a Philly cheesesteak has been raging for years. The two most popular choices are Cheez Whiz and provolone. Cheez Whiz was first used on a cheesesteak in the 1950s and has since become an American staple. It has a smooth consistency and is easy to melt. Some people love it for its salty and creamy taste, while others argue that it has too much of an artificial flavor.
Provolone, on the other hand, is a traditional Italian cheese that has a mild flavor and slightly firm texture. It is a popular choice among those who prefer a more authentic and natural taste on their cheesesteak. Provolone can either be melted on top of the steak or placed under the meat to create a warm and gooey layer. Ultimately, the debate over which cheese is best comes down to personal preference, but there’s no doubt that both Cheez Whiz and provolone have rightfully earned their place in Philly cheesesteak history.
How to Make the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak at Home
When it comes to making a Philly cheesesteak at home, it’s all about the ingredients. Start by selecting a good quality ribeye or sirloin steak. Slice it thinly against the grain for optimal tenderness. The next important component is the bread – a soft, chewy hoagie roll is traditional, but any sub-style roll will do.
Heat a griddle or skillet over high heat and add some thinly sliced onions and peppers to sauté. Once they’re caramelized, push them to the side and add the sliced steak to cook until browned. Break the steak into small pieces with a spatula and mix it with the vegetables.
Next, it’s time to add the cheese. While Whiz may be the most traditional option, feel free to use your preferred cheese, such as provolone or American. Melt the cheese onto the steak mixture and scoop it all into the roll. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Philly cheesesteak!
Regional Variations of the Philly Cheesesteak
The original Philly cheesesteak was made with thinly sliced beef, grilled onions, and melted cheese served on a crusty roll. However, as the cheesesteak gained popularity, regional variations emerged, with different types of cheeses and toppings being used.
In Philadelphia, the most common cheese used on a cheesesteak is Cheez Whiz, a processed cheese sauce that adds a creamy texture and savory flavor. However, in other parts of the country, such as New York, Provolone is the preferred cheese on a cheesesteak. In some cities, Swiss cheese is used, while in others, American or cheddar cheese is added. Additionally, toppings like peppers, mushrooms, and hot sauce can vary depending on where you are. Despite the different cheese choices, the iconic Philly cheesesteak remains a favorite sandwich across the country.
The Top Philly Cheesesteak Spots in the US
When it comes to finding the best Philly Cheesesteak in the US, there are plenty of spots that have become household names. One of the top contenders is Pat’s King of Steaks in Philadelphia, which is widely credited with inventing the sandwich over 90 years ago. Other legendary Philly Cheesesteak spots include Geno’s Steaks, Tony Luke’s, and Jim’s Steaks.
However, the best Philly Cheesesteak doesn’t always come from the most well-known spot. Many local joints and hidden gems across the country have perfected the art of this beloved sandwich, with some even taking it to new heights with creative additions like truffle oil or jalapeños. So no matter where you are in the US, there’s likely a fantastic Philly Cheesesteak just waiting to be discovered.
Tips for Ordering the Best Philly Cheesesteak at a Restaurant.
When it comes to ordering the best Philly cheesesteak at a restaurant, there are a few tips to keep in mind. Firstly, it’s important to specify the type of cheese you want on your cheesesteak. Don’t assume the restaurant will automatically give you the most common cheese, which is typically either American or provolone. If you have a preference for a different type of cheese, such as Cheez Whiz or Swiss, make sure to let your server know.
Another tip for ordering the best Philly cheesesteak is to specify how you want your meat cooked. Most restaurants will default to thinly sliced, well-done steak, but if you prefer your meat cooked differently, such as medium-rare, don’t hesitate to ask. Additionally, you can customize your cheesesteak further by adding toppings such as onions, peppers, mushrooms, or hot peppers. Don’t be afraid to ask for exactly what you want to create the perfect Philly cheesesteak experience.
Conclusion
The Philly cheesesteak is an iconic sandwich originating from Philadelphia that has captured the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts globally. It is a mouth-watering culinary creation that comprises thinly sliced beef and melted cheese served on a hoagie roll. Cheese is an integral component of the sandwich, and the most common cheese used is Cheez Whiz.
While the debate on the ideal cheese for a Philly cheesesteak continues, it is clear that Cheez Whiz is the one that features dominantly. Its popularity can be attributed to its meltability, flavor, and easy availability. However, some purists argue that Provolone or American cheese is the only acceptable choice. Regardless of individual preferences, the Philadelphia culinary heritage is incomplete without the inclusion of the Philly cheesesteak, enjoyed with Cheez Whiz or any other cheese.