The Philly cheesesteak, a culinary icon of Philadelphia, has been a staple of the city’s food scene for decades. This mouth-watering sandwich, consisting of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, has gained a massive following worldwide. But have you ever wondered how these delicious sandwiches are made in the city where they originated? In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the art of crafting authentic Philly cheesesteaks in Philadelphia.
A Brief History of the Philly Cheesesteak
Before we dive into the making of a Philly cheesesteak, let’s take a brief look at its history. The origins of the Philly cheesesteak date back to the 1930s, when a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers in South Philadelphia. One day, a customer asked Olivieri to add some cheese to the sandwich, and the Philly cheesesteak was born. Olivieri’s hot dog stand eventually became Pat’s King of Steaks, a legendary restaurant that still serves some of the city’s best cheesesteaks today.
The Essential Ingredients of a Philly Cheesesteak
So, what makes a Philly cheesesteak truly authentic? The answer lies in the quality of its ingredients. Here are the essential components of a classic Philly cheesesteak:
The Meat
Thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak is the preferred choice for Philly cheesesteaks. The steak is typically sliced against the grain to ensure tenderness and ease of chewing.
The Cheese
Cheese is a crucial component of a Philly cheesesteak, and the most commonly used varieties are Cheez Whiz, provolone, and white American. Cheez Whiz, a processed cheese spread, is the most iconic and widely used cheese in Philly cheesesteaks.
The Bread
A crusty, slightly sweet Italian roll, known as an Amoroso roll, is the traditional bread used for Philly cheesesteaks. The roll is lightly toasted to give it a crispy texture and a subtle crunch.
The Onions
Thinly sliced or chopped onions are sautéed with the steak to add a sweet, caramelized flavor to the sandwich.
The Art of Assembling a Philly Cheesesteak
Now that we’ve covered the essential ingredients, let’s explore the art of assembling a Philly cheesesteak. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how it’s done:
Step 1: Slicing the Meat
The steak is sliced into thin strips, typically against the grain, to ensure tenderness and ease of chewing.
Step 2: Heating the Grill
A flat-top grill or griddle is heated to medium-high heat, and a small amount of oil is added to prevent the steak from sticking.
Step 3: Searing the Steak
The sliced steak is added to the grill and seared for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches the desired level of doneness.
Step 4: Adding the Onions
Thinly sliced or chopped onions are added to the grill and sautéed with the steak until they’re translucent and caramelized.
Step 5: Assembling the Sandwich
The cooked steak and onions are placed onto the toasted Amoroso roll, and a slice of cheese is added on top.
Step 6: Adding the Final Touches
The sandwich is finished with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and a dash of ketchup or hot sauce, if desired.
Philly Cheesesteak Variations
While the classic Philly cheesesteak is a timeless favorite, many variations have emerged over the years. Here are a few popular twists on the original:
Whiz Wit
A classic Philly cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz and onions.
Provolone Without
A variation featuring provolone cheese and no onions.
Chicken Cheesesteak
A chicken breast substitute for the traditional steak.
Veggie Cheesesteak
A vegetarian version featuring sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers and mushrooms, instead of steak.
Where to Find the Best Philly Cheesesteaks in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is home to many iconic cheesesteak joints, each with its own unique charm and flavor. Here are some of the most popular spots to try an authentic Philly cheesesteak:
Pat’s King of Steaks
The legendary restaurant where the Philly cheesesteak was born.
Geno’s Steaks
A rival cheesesteak joint located right across the street from Pat’s.
Jim’s Steaks
A South Street institution serving some of the city’s best cheesesteaks.
Steve’s Prince of Steaks
A family-owned cheesesteak joint with multiple locations throughout the city.
Conclusion
The Philly cheesesteak is a culinary icon that has captured the hearts and taste buds of people around the world. By understanding the history, ingredients, and assembly process of this beloved sandwich, we can appreciate the art and craftsmanship that goes into creating an authentic Philly cheesesteak. Whether you’re a native Philadelphian or just visiting the city, trying a classic Philly cheesesteak is a must-do experience that will leave you wanting more.
Experience the Authentic Taste of Philadelphia
If you’re craving a delicious Philly cheesesteak, look no further than the city where it was born. Visit one of the iconic cheesesteak joints mentioned above, or try making your own at home using the tips and techniques outlined in this article. Whatever you choose, you’ll be sure to experience the authentic taste of Philadelphia.
What is the origin of the Philly cheesesteak, and how has it become an iconic symbol of Philadelphia?
The Philly cheesesteak has a rich history that dates back to the 1930s in South Philadelphia. According to legend, a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers and construction workers. One day, a customer asked Olivieri to add some cheese to the sandwich, and the Philly cheesesteak was born. Olivieri’s humble hot dog stand eventually grew into Pat’s King of Steaks, a beloved institution that still serves some of the city’s best cheesesteaks to this day.
Over time, the Philly cheesesteak has become an iconic symbol of Philadelphia, representing the city’s blue-collar roots and its passion for good food. The sandwich has been featured in countless films, TV shows, and travel guides, and it’s a must-try experience for anyone visiting the city. Whether you’re a lifelong Philadelphian or just passing through, the Philly cheesesteak is a culinary experience that’s sure to leave you feeling full and satisfied.
What type of steak is traditionally used in a Philly cheesesteak, and how is it prepared?
Traditionally, a Philly cheesesteak is made with thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak. The steak is typically sliced into thin strips and then sautéed on a griddle with some oil and seasonings until it’s cooked to perfection. The key to a great Philly cheesesteak is using high-quality steak that’s tender and flavorful, and cooking it just right so that it’s still juicy and full of flavor.
To prepare the steak, cheesesteak vendors will often use a technique called “chopping and flipping,” where they chop the steak into small pieces as it cooks and then flip it over to cook the other side. This helps to distribute the heat evenly and ensures that the steak is cooked consistently throughout. Some vendors may also add a sprinkle of salt and pepper to bring out the flavor of the steak.
What are the different types of cheese that can be used in a Philly cheesesteak, and which one is the most traditional?
While there are many different types of cheese that can be used in a Philly cheesesteak, the most traditional option is Cheez Whiz. This processed cheese spread has been a staple of Philly cheesesteaks for decades, and it’s still the go-to choice for many vendors and locals. Other popular cheese options include provolone, mozzarella, and American, but Cheez Whiz remains the most iconic and authentic choice.
One of the reasons Cheez Whiz is so well-suited to the Philly cheesesteak is its creamy texture and mild flavor. When melted, it adds a rich and velvety element to the sandwich that complements the savory flavor of the steak perfectly. Plus, it’s easy to melt and spread, making it a convenient choice for busy cheesesteak vendors.
What is the difference between a “Whiz wit” and a “provolone without,” and how do you order a Philly cheesesteak like a local?
In Philly cheesesteak parlance, a “Whiz wit” refers to a cheesesteak made with Cheez Whiz and onions, while a “provolone without” refers to a cheesesteak made with provolone cheese and no onions. To order a Philly cheesesteak like a local, you’ll want to use this lingo to specify your cheese and topping preferences. For example, if you want a classic Philly cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz and onions, you would order a “Whiz wit.” If you prefer provolone cheese and no onions, you would order a “provolone without.”
When ordering a Philly cheesesteak, it’s also important to be clear and concise. Vendors are often busy and may not have time to ask follow-up questions, so make sure to specify your cheese and topping preferences upfront. You can also ask for additional toppings, such as ketchup or hot peppers, but be aware that some vendors may charge extra for these.
What is the role of the Amoroso roll in a traditional Philly cheesesteak, and why is it so important?
The Amoroso roll is a type of Italian bread that’s specifically designed to hold up to the juicy filling of a Philly cheesesteak. It’s a crusty, slightly sweet roll that’s made with a special type of flour and water, and it’s been a staple of Philly cheesesteaks for decades. The Amoroso roll plays a crucial role in a traditional Philly cheesesteak, as it provides a sturdy base for the filling and helps to keep everything together.
One of the reasons the Amoroso roll is so important is its texture. It’s soft and slightly chewy on the inside, but crispy on the outside, which provides a nice contrast to the gooey cheese and savory steak. The roll is also lightly salted, which helps to bring out the flavors of the filling. When you take a bite of a Philly cheesesteak, the Amoroso roll is the first thing you notice, and it sets the tone for the rest of the sandwich.
How do Philly cheesesteak vendors achieve that perfect balance of flavors and textures in their sandwiches?
Achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures in a Philly cheesesteak is an art that requires skill and practice. Vendors will often use a combination of techniques, such as chopping and flipping the steak, to ensure that it’s cooked consistently throughout. They’ll also use a specific type of cheese, such as Cheez Whiz, that melts easily and adds a rich, creamy element to the sandwich.
In addition to the ingredients themselves, the cooking technique is also crucial. Vendors will often use a hot griddle to cook the steak and melt the cheese, which helps to create a crispy crust on the outside of the sandwich. They’ll also use a spatula to carefully assemble the sandwich, making sure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed and the cheese is melted to perfection. The result is a sandwich that’s both flavorful and texturally interesting, with a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and gooey elements.
What are some common mistakes that tourists make when ordering a Philly cheesesteak, and how can you avoid them?
One common mistake that tourists make when ordering a Philly cheesesteak is asking for too many toppings or special requests. While it’s okay to ask for a few extra toppings, such as ketchup or hot peppers, asking for too many can be seen as rude or high-maintenance. Another mistake is not using the local lingo, such as “Whiz wit” or “provolone without.” This can make you stand out as a tourist and may even result in a few eye-rolls from the vendor.
To avoid these mistakes, it’s a good idea to do a little research beforehand and learn the local lingo. You can also observe how the locals order and try to follow their lead. Additionally, be respectful of the vendor’s time and expertise – they’re there to make you a great sandwich, so trust their judgment and don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations. By following these tips, you can avoid common mistakes and have a more authentic Philly cheesesteak experience.