Philly Cheesesteak is one of the most beloved food items in the United States, with a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. This iconic sandwich originated in Philadelphia, and it typically consists of thinly sliced beefsteak, sautéed onions, and melted cheese served on a hoagie roll. Over the years, several variations have been introduced, but the original recipe remains as popular as ever.
In this article, we will be exploring the recipe for the perfect Philly Cheesesteak, courtesy of the renowned American culinary expert, Alton Brown. You will learn about the ingredients, cooking techniques, and the best way to assemble this delectable sandwich. So, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a newbie in the kitchen, get ready to learn how to make a Philly Cheesesteak that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
Alton Brown’s Guide to Choosing the Best Ingredients for a Philly Cheesesteak
Alton Brown’s guide to choosing the best ingredients for a Philly Cheesesteak begins with the bread. He suggests using a long roll, such as a hoagie or sub roll, with a crispy exterior and soft interior. The important factor is to ensure that the bread is fresh and not stale. Additionally, he recommends going for sourdough rolls to add extra flavor to the sandwich.
For the meat, Alton Brown recommends using ribeye steak, which is well-marbled and has a rich, beefy flavor. He suggests freezing the meat for 30 minutes before slicing it thinly to obtain even slices. Another important tip is to season the meat with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance its flavor. Finally, he suggests using a combination of provolone and American cheese to add both tangy and creamy flavors to the sandwich.
The Secret Ingredient: What Makes Alton Brown’s Philly Cheesesteak Stand Out?
When it comes to making a Philly Cheesesteak, Alton Brown knows exactly what is needed to make it stand out. The secret ingredient that he uses is mayonnaise. Yes, you read it right! The mayonnaise helps in creating a crispy outer crust to the meat, which is crucial in the making of an authentic Philly Cheesesteak.
The method that Alton Brown uses to incorporate mayonnaise in his Philly Cheesesteak recipe is by spreading a generous amount on one side of the sliced bread before toasting it. This not only adds to the flavor but also adds a slight tanginess to the sandwich, setting it apart from the rest. So, the next time you are making a Philly Cheesesteak, don’t forget to add a dollop of mayonnaise to elevate the taste and texture of your sandwich.
Step-by-Step: Alton Brown’s Method for Building a Perfect Philly Cheesesteak
Building a perfect Philly cheesesteak requires some skill and technique. Alton Brown has his own method that promises to deliver a mouthwatering result every time. Here is his step-by-step process for making a perfect Philly cheesesteak:
First, heat a large griddle or cast-iron skillet over high heat. Add sliced ribeye steak along with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the steak for a few minutes until it develops a brown crust. Then, toss the meat around a bit to cook both sides evenly. Push the steak slices to one side of the pan and add sliced onions to the other side. Cook the onions for a few minutes until they caramelize and become soft.
Next, mix the onions and steak together. Spread a layer of thinly sliced American cheese over the meat and onions. Let it melt for a minute, then remove from heat. Take a hoagie roll and slice it lengthwise. Stuff the roll with the meat mixture, and your Philly cheesesteak is ready to serve!
From the Grill to Your Plate: Cooking Alton Brown’s Perfect Philly Cheesesteak
Once you have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to cook the perfect Philly Cheesesteak as per Alton Brown’s recipe. Start by grilling the thinly-sliced ribeye steak on a griddle or a flat-top grill. Once the meat is cooked to your desired level of doneness, pile it on a hoagie roll and top it off with grilled onions and peppers.
Next, sprinkle some salt and pepper to taste and add a generous layer of provolone cheese on top of the steak. Finally, transfer the sandwich to a broiler or oven until the cheese melts and gets bubbly. Allow the cheesesteak to cool for a minute before cutting it in half to serve. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a game-day snack that is sure to please any crowd.
Perfect Pairings: Sides and Beverages to Enhance Your Alton Brown Philly Cheesesteak
No Philadelphia cheesesteak is complete without a few delicious sides and a refreshing beverage. Whether you’re a fan of classic choices or looking to experiment with new pairings, there are endless options to complement the flavors of your Alton Brown Philly cheesesteak.
Some classic side choices include French fries, onion rings, or potato salad. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider pairing your cheesesteak with roasted vegetables or a side salad for a lighter option. To wash it all down, a cold beer or soda is the perfect complement to your meal. Alternatively, you could also opt for a tasty shake or smoothie for a refreshing and healthy option. Whatever your preferences, the perfect pairings for your Alton Brown Philly cheesesteak are sure to make your meal a delicious, satisfying experience.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Mistakes to Avoid when Making Alton Brown’s Philly Cheesesteak
Making the perfect Philly cheesesteak from Alton Brown’s recipe can be a bit challenging. However, by avoiding some common pitfalls, you can ensure that your cheesesteak turns out perfectly every time. One mistake to avoid is using the wrong type of bread. The bread used for Philly cheesesteak is crucial, and using the wrong type can ruin a perfectly good sandwich. Alton Brown recommends using a crusty Italian hoagie roll that is soft on the inside but firm enough to hold the ingredients in place. Don’t forget to toast the roll for added texture and flavor.
Another pitfall to avoid is overcooking the steak. One of the main ingredients in Philly cheesesteak is thinly-sliced ribeye, which can easily dry out if overcooked. To achieve the perfect texture and flavor, make sure to cook the meat quickly over high heat and avoid pressing down on it with a spatula. Also, be sure to choose ribeye with plenty of marbling for added juiciness. With these tips in mind, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and make a delicious Philly cheesesteak that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Philly Cheesesteak Innovations: Creative Spins on Alton Brown’s Classic Recipe.
The classic Philly cheesesteak recipe that Alton Brown has shared with the world is a fan favorite for its simplicity and deliciousness. However, as with any dish, there is always room for creative spins and innovations to make it even better. Here are some ideas for taking Alton’s recipe to the next level.
First, consider adding some different cheese varieties to your Philly cheesesteak. While the classic recipe calls for Cheez Whiz or provolone, other options like Gouda, blue cheese, or even brie can bring unique flavors and textures to the dish. You can also experiment with different cuts of meat or additional toppings like sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or avocado to make your own signature Philly cheesesteak creation. With these innovations, you can elevate this classic sandwich and make it your own.
The Bottom Line
Making a Philly cheesesteak the Alton Brown way may seem complicated, but it’s definitely worth the time and effort. The chef’s approach guarantees to deliver juicy, tender and flavorful meat on a warm and crunchy bread. His recipe is not only packed with rich flavors but also comes with a ton of history. It’s a perfect representation of the history and culture of Philadelphia and is a delicacy enjoyed by so many people across the country.
To sum up, Philly cheesesteak is a perfect example of comfort food that can settle any craving. With Alton Brown’s recipe, you can easily recreate the magic at your home. By following his tips and tricks, you can enjoy a delicious and authentic Philly cheesesteak without having to fly all the way to Philadelphia. So get your ingredients, turn up your stove, and get ready to experience the magical taste of Alton Brown’s Philly cheesesteak.