Philadelphia is known as the birthplace of the cheesesteak, one of the most beloved sandwiches in American cuisine. This sandwich is a staple in the city, with dozens of eateries serving up their own version of the classic sandwich. However, the history of the cheesesteak is disputed, with several stories about how it came to be.
In this article, we will explore the origins of the cheesesteak and try to answer one of the most debated questions – what was the original Philly cheesesteak? By examining the history of the sandwich, we will uncover the various stories and legends surrounding its creation and see how the cheesesteak has evolved over the years. So, let’s dive in and discover the truth behind one of America’s most famous sandwiches.
The History and Origins of the Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly Cheesesteak is a world-renowned sandwich consisting of thinly sliced grilled or sautéed beef, melted cheese, and onions on a hoagie roll. It is a beloved icon of the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia, and has been an important part of the city’s culinary culture for over a century.
The Philly Cheesesteak’s history and origins are murky, with many claims to its invention. One popular story credits Pat and Harry Olivieri, brothers who ran a hot dog stand in south Philadelphia in the 1930s, as the originators of the sandwich. Legend has it that one day they decided to sauté some beef and onions and put them on a hot dog roll, and the Philly Cheesesteak was born. Another story credits Joe “Cocky” Lorenza, a South Philadelphia street vendor, as the originator of the Philly Cheesesteak, who began selling sandwiches made with steak and cheese in the 1940s. Regardless of its true origins, the Philly Cheesesteak has become an iconic symbol of Philadelphia and a beloved classic sandwich around the world.
The Debate Surrounding the Invention of the Philly Cheesesteak
The origins of the Philly Cheesesteak have long been a matter of debate in Philadelphia. There are numerous stories and legends surrounding the invention of this iconic sandwich, with each tale claiming to be the definitive version of events.
Some believe that the famed sandwich was first made by Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor who decided to switch up his offerings by grilling some beef and putting it on an Italian roll. Others contend that it was actually Harry and Pat Olivieri, brothers who ran a sandwich shop, who first served up the deliciously cheesy dish. Regardless of who started it all, one thing is for certain: the Philly Cheesesteak has become an integral part of Philadelphia’s culinary culture, and its popularity has spread far beyond the city’s borders.
The Key Ingredients that Make Up the Original Philly Cheesesteak
The key ingredients that make up the original Philly cheesesteak may seem simple, but they are the backbone of what makes this sandwich so delicious. First and foremost, the thinly sliced beef is the star of the show. The most traditional cut of meat used is rib-eye, which is cooked on a griddle until it’s tender with crispy edges. The meat is then piled onto a soft hoagie roll that has been lightly toasted.
Next up is the cheese, and there’s no skimping in this department. The most traditional cheese is provolone, but some people do opt for American or Cheese Whiz. The cheese should melt into the meat, creating a gooey, flavorful mess. Finally, toppings are what set individual cheesesteak variations apart from each other. Common toppings include onions, mushrooms, and peppers. Some people also like to add ketchup, hot sauce, or mayo, but purists will tell you that only the original three ingredients are needed to create the perfect Philly cheesesteak.
How Philly Cheesesteaks Became a Cultural Icon in Philadelphia and Beyond
Philly cheesesteaks have become an integral part of the cultural landscape of Philadelphia and beyond. Today, the iconic sandwich is a symbol of the city’s blue-collar working-class roots and a testament to the city’s reputation as a food destination. The sandwich’s popularity has grown beyond the city limits too, with Philly restaurants that serve cheesesteaks popping up across the country.
Several factors have contributed to the cultural significance of Philly cheesesteaks. These include the sandwich’s accessibility, affordability, and deliciousness. The sandwich is widely available throughout Philadelphia and is sold at every price point, from hole-in-the-wall joints to upscale restaurants. The combination of thinly sliced steak, cheese, and toppings like onions and peppers has become a staple of American cuisine, beloved by people from all walks of life. Whether you are a local or a tourist, no visit to Philadelphia is complete without trying a Philly cheesesteak.
The Evolution of the Philly Cheesesteak: Regional Variations and Unique Twists
The evolution of the Philly cheesesteak over the years has resulted in various regional variations emerging across the United States. While the original sandwich was made with thinly sliced ribeye steak and Cheez Whiz on a roll, different regions added their own unique twists to the Philly cheesesteak.
In the Mid-Atlantic region, some cheesesteaks come with “long hots” (spicy peppers) or roasted red peppers. In contrast, in the Pacific Northwest, there is often the use of mushrooms, while in Southern California, it’s common to see avocado and salsa added to the sandwich. Other regional variations include the “pizza steak” in Philadelphia, which adds tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese to the sandwich, and the “chicken cheesesteak” that replaces the beef with chicken meat. Overall, the evolution of the Philly cheesesteak has resulted in a diverse range of creations tailored to suit local palates.
The Role of Cheesesteak in the Philadelphia Economy and Tourism Industry
The cheesesteak has been an integral part of both the Philadelphia economy and its tourism industry since its inception. The fame of this sandwich has not only attracted tourists from all around the world but has also provided a significant boost to the local economy. There are numerous restaurants and food trucks that are dedicated entirely to serving Philly cheesesteaks.
Over the years, cheesesteaks have become an iconic food item that is essential to the city’s tourist experience. Many visitors come to Philadelphia solely to try the authentic sandwich, while others make it a point to sample the various cheesesteak establishments in the city. These visitors contribute significantly to the local economy by spending money on food, lodging, and transportation, making them an essential part of the tourism industry in Philadelphia.
How to Make an Authentic Philly Cheesesteak at Home
If you want to make an authentic Philly cheesesteak at home, there are a few key ingredients and techniques that you’ll need to master. First, start with a fresh, high-quality ribeye steak, which is traditionally used for this sandwich. Slice the steak thinly and cook it on a hot griddle or cast iron skillet, along with some thinly sliced onions.
Next, it’s time to add the cheese. While American cheese is the classic choice, many people also like to use provolone or Cheez Whiz. Simply place a few slices of cheese on top of the steak and onions, and let it melt before scooping everything up onto a soft, crusty roll. Many Philly cheesesteak lovers also like to add toppings like sweet or hot peppers, mushrooms, or even ketchup or mayo, but these are optional. With these simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious and authentic Philly cheesesteak without even leaving your kitchen.
The Bottom Line
The Philly Cheesesteak today is widely popular across the globe and is considered a significant part of Philadelphia’s culture. Though the Original Philly Cheesesteak has undergone many variations over the last century, its roots remain grounded in the early days of South Philadelphia. It’s believed that Italian-American cheesesteak vendors started selling this sandwich in the 1930s and 40s, and it has since become an important part of Philadelphia’s culinary tradition.
Despite the ongoing debate surrounding the exact origin of the sandwich, it’s undeniable that the Philly Cheesesteak continues to lure food lovers worldwide. Its delicious combination of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and crusty bread makes it a staple in fast food joints, restaurants, and street corners of Philadelphia. Whether you prefer your Cheesesteak with or without onions, with cheese whiz, provolone, or American cheese, the essence of the Philly Cheesesteak remains the same – a delicious taste of Philadelphia’s history.