If you are a foodie or a sandwich lover, you must be aware of the classic Philly Cheesesteak sandwich, a popular delicacy hailing from the streets of Philadelphia. This mouth-watering sandwich is made up of thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and melted cheese on a long hoagie roll. However, one of the most significant debates among the food enthusiasts is what kind of cheese is supposed to be on a real Philly Cheesesteak?
Some argue that American cheese is the authentic and traditional choice, while others swear by smothering it in Provolone or Cheez Whiz. In this article, we will dive into the origins of the Philly Cheesesteak, explore the cheese types used, and finally, settle the age-old debate of what kind of cheese makes a real Philly Cheesesteak.
The Origins of the Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly cheesesteak is a popular sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is said that the origin of this delicious sandwich dates back to the early 20th century when Pat and Harry Olivieri, brothers who owned a hotdog stand in South Philadelphia, decided to experiment with some thinly sliced beef together with grilled onions. They put this mixture onto a hotdog roll and a new sandwich was born.
The Philly cheesesteak became an instant hit in Philadelphia, and its fame quickly spread to other parts of the country. Today, it is considered a staple sandwich in Philadelphia, and people come from all over the world to taste this delicious delight. The sandwich has come a long way from its humble beginnings, and the original recipe has undergone several changes. However, one thing remains constant – the use of cheese. The kind of cheese used on a real Philly cheesesteak is a matter of debate, and people have their own opinions.
What Type of Bread is Used for the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak?
The bread used for a Philly cheesesteak is as important as the cheese and beef. The classic choice is a long, crusty roll with a soft interior, known as an Italian or Amoroso roll. These rolls are unique to Philadelphia and are essential to the authentic Philly cheesesteak experience.
The bread should be fresh and slightly warmed, allowing it to absorb the juices from the steak and melt the cheese. Some variations include using a hoagie or French bread, but these options are not as common and may alter the taste and texture of the cheesesteak. Ultimately, the bread should complement the flavors of the other ingredients and provide the perfect balance to the sandwich.
The Cheese Debate: Cheez Whiz vs. Provolone
When it comes to the cheese on a Philly cheesesteak, there has long been a heated debate among locals and foodies alike: Cheez Whiz or provolone? Cheez Whiz, a processed cheese sauce, was first introduced to the Philly cheesesteak scene in the 1950s and has since become a popular choice among many locals. Its smooth texture and intense flavor complement the salty, savory beef nicely.
On the other hand, some staunch Philly cheesesteak purists argue that provolone, a semi-soft cheese, is the only acceptable option for the perfect cheesesteak. Provolone is known for being a milder, creamier cheese that doesn’t overpower the other flavors in the sandwich. Ultimately, the choice of cheese on a Philly cheesesteak comes down to personal preference, but trying both Cheez Whiz and provolone is a must for any true cheesesteak enthusiast.
The Best Philadelphia Cheesesteak Spots According to Locals
When it comes to finding the best Philadelphia cheesesteak spots, the locals are truly the experts. They have tried and tested all the options available in the city and have their own favourites. Here are a few recommendations straight from the locals themselves:
First up is Jim’s Steaks South Street, which has been serving up mouth-watering cheesesteaks since 1939. The locals swear by their classic cheesesteaks loaded with thinly sliced ribeye, onions, and your choice of cheese.
Next, you have Dalessandro’s Steaks & Hoagies, a family-owned business that has been dishing out delicious cheesesteaks for over 60 years. The locals recommend trying their cheesesteaks with provolone cheese and their famous fried onions for the ultimate flavour explosion. These are just a few of the many amazing cheesesteak spots in Philadelphia that the locals swear by.
The Role of Onions and Other Accompaniments in a Real Philly Cheesesteak
The role of onions and other accompaniments in a real Philly cheesesteak is crucial in creating the perfect balance of flavors. While the cheese is undoubtedly the star of the show, the onions are an essential part of the sandwich.
Traditionally, thinly sliced onions are fried alongside the steak, adding a sweet and savory flavor that complements the cheese and meat perfectly. Some restaurants even offer different varieties of onions, such as sweet onions or caramelized onions, to add an extra layer of flavor. Additionally, some places may also offer toppings such as peppers or mushrooms to add more depth to the sandwich. Ultimately, it is up to personal preference, but adding onions and other accompaniments can take a real Philly cheesesteak to another level.
The Secret to Cooking Perfect Steak for a Philly Cheesesteak
The key to creating the perfect Philly Cheesesteak is cooking the steak properly. A good Philly Cheesesteak steak should be lean, tender and juicy. It is best to use a thinly sliced ribeye or top round cut for that authentic Philly flavor.
Before cooking the steak, let it come to room temperature. Season the steak with salt and pepper or your choice of spices. It is best to cook the steak on a flat griddle, but a cast iron skillet will also do. Cook the steak for around 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Avoid overcooking the steak as it will result in a dry and tough meat. Once the steak is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before using it in your Philly Cheesesteak recipe.
The Future of the Philly Cheesesteak: Innovations and Evolutions
The Philly Cheesesteak has become a staple in the American culinary scene, and over the years, it has evolved to include new ingredients and flavors. The future of the Philly Cheesesteak is all about innovation, and chefs are constantly experimenting with new ways to improve the classic dish.
One way that the Philly Cheesesteak is evolving is by incorporating different types of cheese. While traditionalists may argue that only Cheez Whiz or provolone cheese should be used, some modern interpretations feature various types of gourmet cheeses. Additionally, the use of new ingredients such as spicy aiolis, pickled vegetables, and even plant-based meats is also changing the game for the Philly Cheesesteak. As chefs continue to experiment, the possibilities for the future of the Philly Cheesesteak are endless.
The Conclusion
The debate over what kind of cheese should be on a real Philly cheesesteak is a passionate one, and there are strong arguments for each option. Provolone, with its mild flavor and melty texture, is a popular choice among Philly locals, as is Cheez Whiz, a product that has become synonymous with the sandwich. However, some purists insist that the only true cheese for a cheesesteak is American, which adds a creamy, gooey element to the dish.
At the end of the day, the cheese on a Philly cheesesteak is largely a matter of personal preference. Whether you opt for provolone, Cheez Whiz, American, or a different type of cheese altogether, the key is to make sure it complements the steak and the bread and adds to the overall flavor experience of the sandwich. No matter which cheese you choose, there’s no denying that a well-made Philly cheesesteak is a delicious and iconic part of American culinary culture.