For many meat lovers and food enthusiasts, the Philly Cheesesteak is a legendary sandwich that has been around for almost a century. It is a true representation of Philadelphia’s culinary identity and a must-try for anyone visiting the city. However, while everyone knows that a Philly Cheesesteak contains thinly sliced steak and melted cheese, there is a debate regarding which type of cheese is the “authentic” one.
One of the most controversial choices is Cheese Whiz, a processed cheese product that is often used in Philly Cheesesteaks. Some people swear by it and claim that it’s the only proper way to make a Philly Cheesesteak, while others find it unappetizing and argue that it ruins the authenticity of the sandwich. This article aims to explore the controversy and offer a balanced view of the debate.
What is a Philly Cheesesteak and How Did Cheese Whiz Become a Contender
A Philly Cheesesteak is a popular sandwich that originated in Philadelphia in the 1930s. It is made with thinly sliced beef, typically ribeye, that is cooked on a griddle alongside onions, and then placed on a hoagie roll. The sandwich is then traditionally topped with either provolone cheese or Cheese Whiz.
Cheese Whiz became a contender for Philly Cheesesteaks in the 1950s when it was first introduced by the Kraft Foods company. Its popularity with the working-class community in Philadelphia can be attributed to its convenience and affordability. Although some argue that Cheese Whiz takes away from the original flavor of the sandwich, it has become an iconic element of the Philly Cheesesteak and is still enjoyed by many today.
The Controversial Topic of Cheesesteak Cheese: Provolone Vs. Cheese Whiz
The cheese used in a Philly cheesesteak has been a heated topic of debate for decades. While some argue that the traditional and authentic Philly cheesesteak must have Cheese Whiz, others prefer provolone, which they claim is a better and healthier alternative.
Supporters of Cheese Whiz claim that it is the perfect creamy and gooey topping for a cheesesteak. They argue that it has been a staple condiment in Philly cheesesteaks since the late 1950s and is preferred by most Philadelphians. Meanwhile, supporters of provolone argue that it is a superior and healthier choice as it is made of real cheese and is less processed than Cheese Whiz. Ultimately, the decision of which cheese to use is a personal preference, and the debate rages on without an end in sight.
A History of Cheese Whiz and Its Ties to the Philadelphia Cheesesteak
Cheese Whiz is a processed cheese product that has become synonymous with the Philadelphia cheesesteak. Originally introduced in 1952, this cheese sauce was developed by a team of chemists at Kraft Foods as a way to use excess cream cheese. It wasn’t until the 1960s that Cheese Whiz was first added to cheesesteaks by Pat’s King of Steaks, a popular Philadelphia restaurant that claims to have invented the classic sandwich.
The addition of Cheese Whiz to the cheesesteak has been a controversial topic among purists who argue that it is not an authentic ingredient. However, many Philadelphians have come to love the creamy, tangy flavor that the sauce adds to the sandwich. Cheese Whiz has since become a staple ingredient at many of the city’s iconic cheesesteak spots and continues to be a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
A Taste Comparison: Traditional Cheesesteak Vs. Cheese Whiz
When it comes to a traditional Philly Cheesesteak, the debate around whether it should have Cheese Whiz or not is a hot topic. The purists argue that the true Philadelphia sandwich should only have provolone cheese, while others swear by the creamy and easy-to-melt Cheese Whiz.
To settle the argument, many locals and visitors have conducted a taste comparison between the two versions of the sandwich. Some claim that the Cheese Whiz version adds an extra indulgence, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth sensation. Others argue that the traditional version with provolone cheese has a stronger and fuller flavor. Ultimately, the taste preference of a Philly Cheesesteak with or without Cheese Whiz comes down to the individual, as both options are widely available in Philadelphia.
The Science Behind Cheese Whiz and How it Affects the Cheesesteak Experience
When it comes to the perfect Philly cheesesteak experience, the type of cheese you use plays a crucial role. Cheese Whiz is a popular choice for many, but some argue that it doesn’t provide the authentic taste that a true Philly cheesesteak deserves.
The science behind Cheese Whiz lies in its unique composition. It is a processed cheese product that contains emulsifiers, which help to keep the cheese sauce smooth and consistent. However, these emulsifiers also result in a slightly artificial taste. Additionally, Cheese Whiz has a lower melting point than traditional cheese, which can affect the texture of the cheesesteak. Despite these factors, many still prefer the convenience and easy spreadability of Cheese Whiz on their cheesesteaks. Ultimately, the choice of cheese comes down to personal preference, but it’s important to consider the unique properties of Cheese Whiz in the cheesesteak experience.
The Impact of Social and Cultural Influences on Cheese Choice in the Philly Cheesesteak
Social and cultural influences have played a significant role in determining the preferred cheese type in the Philly cheesesteak. While some argue that Cheez Whiz is an essential ingredient in a real Philly cheesesteak, others swear by provolone or American cheese. A range of factors such as personal preference, tradition, and geographic location have all contributed to this debate.
Philadelphia natives have grown up eating Cheez Whiz on their sandwiches, and this has undoubtedly influenced their cheese preference. Additionally, there are strong cultural ties to the use of Cheez Whiz, as it was the first cheese product created specifically for easy melting and was available in small jars at grocery stores. However, as more people try different cheese options, such as provolone, they are finding that these alternatives also have their own distinct taste and texture that adds a unique dimension to the Philly cheesesteak experience.
A Look into the Future: The Evolution of the Philly Cheesesteak and Its Cheese Topping
The Philly cheesesteak has been around for over 80 years, and with each passing year, it continues to evolve. The addition of Cheese Whiz as a popular topping was just one step in this evolution, and there is no doubt that there will be many more to come. In fact, some restaurants are already experimenting with new cheese toppings, such as mozzarella, provolone, and even blue cheese.
As the Philly cheesesteak continues to evolve, so too will the cheese topping that accompanies it. While some traditionalists may argue that Cheese Whiz is the only true topping for a Philly cheesesteak, it is clear that there is room for innovation and experimentation. Whether it is the addition of new cheeses, or the creation of entirely new toppings altogether, the future of the Philly cheesesteak looks bright, and there is no telling what the next evolution of this iconic dish will bring.
Conclusion
Based on the historical and cultural significance of the Philly cheesesteak and its ingredients, it is fair to say that a true Philly cheesesteak should not include Cheese Whiz. Instead, it should be made with thinly sliced steak, grilled onions, and your choice of melted cheese on a freshly baked hoagie roll. While it is understandable that some may prefer the convenience and taste of Cheese Whiz, it should not be considered an authentic ingredient for a Philly cheesesteak.
Regardless of personal preferences, it is important to recognize the longstanding tradition and cultural significance of the Philly cheesesteak. This iconic sandwich represents more than just a tasty treat- it embodies the history and pride of the city of Philadelphia. So, whether you prefer your cheesesteak with or without Cheese Whiz, there is no denying that it will always hold a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of those who call Philly home.