The Philly cheesesteak, a culinary icon of Philadelphia, has been a topic of discussion among food enthusiasts for decades. While the debate about the best cheesesteak joint in Philly continues, one aspect of this beloved sandwich remains shrouded in mystery: Whiz cheese. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Whiz cheese, exploring its history, characteristics, and significance in the context of the Philly cheesesteak.
A Brief History of Whiz Cheese
Whiz cheese, also known as Cheez Whiz, is a processed cheese spread that has been a staple in American cuisine since the 1950s. Developed by James L. Kraft, the founder of Kraft Foods, Whiz cheese was initially marketed as a convenient and affordable alternative to traditional cheese. The first version of Whiz cheese was introduced in 1953, and it quickly gained popularity due to its ease of use, long shelf life, and affordability.
The Rise of Whiz Cheese in Philly Cheesesteaks
So, how did Whiz cheese become an integral part of the Philly cheesesteak? The answer lies in the city’s rich culinary history. In the 1960s and 1970s, Philly cheesesteak vendors began experimenting with different types of cheese to complement the rich flavors of the steak and sautéed onions. Whiz cheese, with its creamy texture and mild flavor, proved to be an ideal match.
Pat Olivieri, the founder of Pat’s King of Steaks, a legendary Philly cheesesteak joint, is often credited with popularizing Whiz cheese on cheesesteaks. According to Olivieri, Whiz cheese was added to the menu in the 1960s as a way to differentiate his cheesesteaks from competitors. The move proved to be a success, and Whiz cheese has since become an integral part of the Philly cheesesteak experience.
Characteristics of Whiz Cheese
So, what makes Whiz cheese so special? Here are some key characteristics that contribute to its popularity:
Texture and Consistency
Whiz cheese has a smooth, creamy texture that melts easily when heated. This makes it an ideal choice for cheesesteaks, as it can be easily spread onto the bread and melted to perfection.
Flavor Profile
Whiz cheese has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the rich flavors of the steak and sautéed onions. The flavor is often described as neutral, which allows the other ingredients in the cheesesteak to take center stage.
Convenience and Affordability
Whiz cheese is widely available in most supermarkets and is relatively inexpensive compared to other types of cheese. This makes it an attractive option for cheesesteak vendors and home cooks alike.
The Significance of Whiz Cheese in Philly Cheesesteaks
Whiz cheese is more than just a topping on a Philly cheesesteak – it’s an integral part of the sandwich’s identity. Here are some reasons why Whiz cheese is so significant:
Tradition and Authenticity
Whiz cheese has been a part of the Philly cheesesteak tradition for decades. For many Philadelphians, a cheesesteak without Whiz cheese is not a “real” cheesesteak.
Flavor Profile and Balance
Whiz cheese adds a rich, creamy element to the cheesesteak that balances out the bold flavors of the steak and sautéed onions.
Cultural Significance
Whiz cheese has become an iconic symbol of Philly cheesesteak culture. It’s often referenced in popular culture, from movies to music, and is widely recognized as a staple of the Philly cheesesteak experience.
Alternatives to Whiz Cheese
While Whiz cheese is the most traditional choice for Philly cheesesteaks, some vendors and home cooks prefer to use alternative types of cheese. Here are some popular options:
- Provolone: A mild, smooth Italian cheese that melts well and adds a rich flavor to the cheesesteak.
- White American: A mild, creamy cheese that melts well and adds a subtle flavor to the cheesesteak.
- Cheddar: A sharp, tangy cheese that adds a bold flavor to the cheesesteak.
Conclusion
Whiz cheese is an integral part of the Philly cheesesteak experience, and its significance extends beyond its flavor and texture. It’s a symbol of tradition, authenticity, and cultural identity. Whether you’re a native Philadelphian or just a cheesesteak enthusiast, Whiz cheese is an essential component of the Philly cheesesteak experience.
So, the next time you order a Philly cheesesteak, be sure to ask for Whiz cheese – it’s the authentic way to enjoy this beloved sandwich.
What is Whiz Cheese, and how is it related to Philly cheesesteaks?
Whiz Cheese, also known as Cheez Whiz, is a type of processed cheese spread that has become an integral part of the classic Philly cheesesteak. It is a bright orange, gooey, and creamy cheese product that is made from a blend of natural cheese, milk, and whey, along with other ingredients like vegetable oils and food coloring. The cheese spread was first introduced in the 1950s by Kraft Foods and quickly gained popularity as a convenient and affordable alternative to traditional cheese.
In the context of Philly cheesesteaks, Whiz Cheese is often used as a topping, melted and bubbly, to add flavor and creaminess to the dish. It is typically paired with thinly sliced beefsteak, sautéed onions, and bell peppers, all served on a crusty hoagie roll. The combination of the savory beef, sweet onions, and tangy Whiz Cheese has become a hallmark of the Philly cheesesteak, and many locals and visitors alike swear by its unique flavor and texture.
What is the origin of Whiz Cheese on Philly cheesesteaks?
The origin of Whiz Cheese on Philly cheesesteaks is a topic of debate among locals and food historians. One story goes that a South Philadelphia hot dog vendor named Joe Lorenzo began serving Cheez Whiz on his hot dogs in the 1960s, and the idea soon caught on with other vendors and restaurants in the area. Another theory suggests that a popular Philly cheesesteak joint, Pat’s King of Steaks, started using Whiz Cheese as a topping in the 1970s as a way to differentiate themselves from competitors.
Regardless of its exact origin, Whiz Cheese has become an integral part of the Philly cheesesteak tradition, with many locals and visitors alike expecting it to be a standard topping option. Today, Whiz Cheese is a staple at many Philly cheesesteak joints, and its presence is often seen as a sign of authenticity and tradition.
What are the key ingredients in Whiz Cheese?
Whiz Cheese, also known as Cheez Whiz, is a processed cheese spread made from a blend of natural cheese, milk, and whey, along with other ingredients like vegetable oils and food coloring. The exact ingredients may vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific product, but the basic components include a combination of cheddar, colby, and monterey jack cheese, along with milk protein concentrate, whey, and lactic acid.
In addition to these core ingredients, Whiz Cheese may also contain other additives like sodium phosphate, sorbic acid, and annatto (a natural food coloring). The cheese spread is often pasteurized and homogenized to extend its shelf life and improve its texture and consistency. While some critics have raised concerns about the processed nature of Whiz Cheese, many fans of the product argue that its unique flavor and texture make it a valuable addition to the Philly cheesesteak.
How is Whiz Cheese different from other types of cheese?
Whiz Cheese is distinct from other types of cheese due to its processed nature and unique blend of ingredients. Unlike natural cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella, Whiz Cheese is made from a combination of cheese, milk, and whey, along with other additives like vegetable oils and food coloring. This blend of ingredients gives Whiz Cheese its characteristic bright orange color and creamy texture.
Another key difference between Whiz Cheese and other types of cheese is its melting properties. Whiz Cheese is designed to melt easily and consistently, making it a popular choice for applications like grilled cheese sandwiches and Philly cheesesteaks. In contrast, natural cheeses like cheddar or Swiss may have a more variable melting point, which can affect their performance in certain recipes.
Can I make my own Whiz Cheese at home?
While it is possible to make a homemade version of Whiz Cheese, it may be challenging to replicate the exact flavor and texture of the commercial product. Whiz Cheese is a highly processed cheese spread that relies on a specific blend of ingredients and manufacturing techniques to achieve its characteristic consistency and flavor.
That being said, there are many recipes available online that claim to approximate the flavor and texture of Whiz Cheese using a combination of natural cheese, milk, and other ingredients. These recipes often involve blending together a mixture of cheddar, colby, and monterey jack cheese with milk, whey, and other additives, then heating and stirring the mixture until it reaches the desired consistency. While the results may not be identical to commercial Whiz Cheese, these homemade versions can still be a tasty and satisfying alternative.
Is Whiz Cheese a healthy choice?
Whiz Cheese is a processed cheese spread that is high in calories, fat, and sodium. A single serving of Whiz Cheese (about 2 tablespoons) contains around 90 calories, 7 grams of fat, and 350 milligrams of sodium. While an occasional serving of Whiz Cheese is unlikely to cause harm, regular consumption of the product could contribute to a range of health problems, including obesity, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
In addition to its high calorie and fat content, Whiz Cheese is also a source of saturated fat, cholesterol, and artificial additives like food coloring and preservatives. While some fans of the product argue that Whiz Cheese can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation, others recommend exploring healthier alternatives like natural cheese or plant-based cheese spreads.
Can I use Whiz Cheese in other recipes beyond Philly cheesesteaks?
While Whiz Cheese is perhaps most famous for its role in Philly cheesesteaks, it can also be used in a variety of other recipes to add flavor and creaminess. Some ideas for using Whiz Cheese beyond Philly cheesesteaks include grilled cheese sandwiches, cheese fries, nachos, and macaroni and cheese.
Whiz Cheese can also be used as a dip for vegetables or crackers, or as a topping for baked potatoes or chili. In addition, the cheese spread can be melted and used as a sauce for pasta dishes or casseroles. While Whiz Cheese may not be the most versatile ingredient, it can add a rich and creamy element to a range of recipes, making it a valuable addition to many kitchens.