The Philly cheesesteak, a culinary icon of Philadelphia, has been a topic of debate among food enthusiasts for decades. While the original recipe is a subject of much speculation, one aspect that sparks intense discussion is the type of cheese used in this beloved sandwich. In this article, we will delve into the history of the Philly cheesesteak, explore the various cheese options, and uncover the authentic choice that has been a staple of this iconic dish.
A Brief History of the Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly cheesesteak has its roots in the 1930s, when a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll in South Philadelphia. According to legend, a taxi cab driver asked Olivieri to add some cheese to the sandwich, and the Philly cheesesteak was born. Olivieri’s restaurant, Pat’s King of Steaks, still operates today and is widely regarded as the birthplace of the Philly cheesesteak.
The Evolution of Cheese on the Philly Cheesesteak
Over the years, various cheeses have been used on the Philly cheesesteak, with some restaurants and individuals swearing by their preferred choice. However, the original cheese used by Pat Olivieri was likely Cheez Whiz, a processed cheese spread that was introduced in the 1950s. Cheez Whiz became a staple in many Philly cheesesteak joints, including Pat’s King of Steaks.
Exploring Cheese Options for the Philly Cheesesteak
While Cheez Whiz remains a popular choice, other cheeses have gained popularity in recent years. Here are some of the most common cheese options used on the Philly cheesesteak:
Cheez Whiz: The Original Choice
Cheez Whiz is a processed cheese spread made from a blend of natural cheese, milk, and whey. It has a creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the savory taste of the steak. Cheez Whiz is still widely used in many Philly cheesesteak joints and is often considered the authentic choice.
Provolone: A Close Second
Provolone is a semi-hard Italian cheese with a smooth, creamy texture and a mild, buttery flavor. It is a popular choice for Philly cheesesteaks, particularly among those who prefer a more natural cheese option. Provolone melts well and adds a rich, velvety texture to the sandwich.
White American: A Mild and Creamy Option
White American is a mild, creamy cheese that is often used on Philly cheesesteaks. It has a smooth texture and a neutral flavor that won’t overpower the other ingredients. White American is a good choice for those who prefer a milder cheese flavor.
Other Cheese Options
Other cheeses, such as mozzarella, cheddar, and gouda, are also used on Philly cheesesteaks, although they are less traditional. These cheeses can add unique flavors and textures to the sandwich, but they may not be as authentic as Cheez Whiz or provolone.
The Authentic Cheese Choice: A Survey of Philly Cheesesteak Joints
To determine the most authentic cheese choice for the Philly cheesesteak, we surveyed several iconic Philly cheesesteak joints in Philadelphia. Here are the results:
| Restaurant | Cheese Choice |
|---|---|
| Pat’s King of Steaks | Cheez Whiz |
| Geno’s Steaks | Cheez Whiz |
| Jim’s Steaks | Provolone |
| Steve’s Prince of Steaks | Cheez Whiz |
As the survey results show, Cheez Whiz is still the most widely used cheese on the Philly cheesesteak, particularly among iconic restaurants like Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks. However, provolone is also a popular choice, particularly among those who prefer a more natural cheese option.
Conclusion
The Philly cheesesteak is a beloved culinary icon that has been a subject of debate among food enthusiasts for decades. While various cheeses have been used on this iconic sandwich, Cheez Whiz remains the most authentic choice, particularly among iconic Philly cheesesteak joints. However, provolone and other cheeses can also add unique flavors and textures to the sandwich. Ultimately, the choice of cheese is a matter of personal preference, but for those seeking an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience, Cheez Whiz is the way to go.
Tips for Making the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak
For those looking to make the perfect Philly cheesesteak at home, here are some tips:
* Use thinly sliced steak, preferably ribeye or top round.
* Use a crusty hoagie roll to hold the sandwich together.
* Add sautéed onions and bell peppers for added flavor.
* Use Cheez Whiz or provolone cheese for an authentic flavor.
* Assemble the sandwich quickly to prevent the cheese from melting too much.
By following these tips and using the authentic cheese choice, you can create a delicious Philly cheesesteak that rivals those found in Philadelphia’s iconic restaurants.
What is the authentic cheese choice for a Philly cheesesteak?
The authentic cheese choice for a Philly cheesesteak is a topic of much debate, but the most traditional and widely accepted option is Cheez Whiz. This processed cheese spread has been a staple in Philadelphia for decades and is often considered the “original” cheese for Philly cheesesteaks. It’s melted to perfection and adds a creamy, tangy flavor to the sandwich.
While some may argue that other cheeses, such as provolone or mozzarella, are also authentic options, Cheez Whiz is the one that’s most closely associated with the classic Philly cheesesteak. In fact, many locals will tell you that if it’s not made with Cheez Whiz, it’s not a “real” Philly cheesesteak. So, if you want to experience the authentic taste of a Philly cheesesteak, go with the classic Cheez Whiz.
What’s the difference between Cheez Whiz and other cheeses on a Philly cheesesteak?
One of the main differences between Cheez Whiz and other cheeses on a Philly cheesesteak is the texture. Cheez Whiz is a smooth, creamy spread that melts easily and adds a velvety texture to the sandwich. Other cheeses, such as provolone or mozzarella, can be melted to a gooey, stringy consistency, but they don’t quite have the same smoothness as Cheez Whiz.
Another difference is the flavor. Cheez Whiz has a distinctive, slightly sweet and tangy taste that complements the savory flavors of the steak and bread. Other cheeses can have a stronger, more pronounced flavor that may overpower the other ingredients. While some people may prefer the taste of other cheeses, Cheez Whiz is the one that’s most closely associated with the classic Philly cheesesteak flavor.
Can I use other types of cheese on a Philly cheesesteak?
While Cheez Whiz is the traditional cheese choice for a Philly cheesesteak, there’s no rule that says you can’t use other types of cheese. In fact, many modern variations of the Philly cheesesteak feature different cheeses, such as provolone, mozzarella, or even gouda. These cheeses can add a unique flavor and texture to the sandwich, and some people may prefer them over Cheez Whiz.
That being said, if you’re looking for an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience, it’s worth trying it with Cheez Whiz at least once. You can always experiment with other cheeses later, but if you want to taste the real deal, go with the classic. And if you do decide to use a different cheese, be sure to melt it to perfection to get the best flavor and texture.
How do I melt the cheese on a Philly cheesesteak?
Melting the cheese on a Philly cheesesteak is an art form, and it’s essential to get it just right. The key is to melt the cheese slowly and evenly, so it’s fully incorporated into the sandwich. One way to do this is to place the cheese on the steak while it’s still on the grill, so it melts into the meat as it cooks.
Another way to melt the cheese is to place the sandwich under the broiler for a few seconds, so the cheese gets all melty and bubbly. This method can add a nice, caramelized crust to the cheese, which can enhance the flavor and texture of the sandwich. Just be careful not to overdo it, or the cheese can get too melted and overpower the other ingredients.
What’s the best way to assemble a Philly cheesesteak with cheese?
Assembling a Philly cheesesteak with cheese is all about balance and harmony. You want to make sure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the sandwich, so every bite has a good balance of steak, cheese, and bread. One way to do this is to place the cheese on the bottom slice of bread, followed by the steak, and then the top slice of bread.
Another way to assemble the sandwich is to place the cheese on top of the steak, so it melts into the meat as you eat it. This method can add a nice, gooey texture to the sandwich, and it can help keep the cheese from getting too melted and overpowering the other ingredients. Either way, be sure to use a generous amount of cheese, so every bite is nice and cheesy.
Can I add other toppings to a Philly cheesesteak with cheese?
While the classic Philly cheesesteak is all about the steak, cheese, and bread, there’s no rule that says you can’t add other toppings. In fact, many modern variations of the Philly cheesesteak feature additional ingredients, such as sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms. These toppings can add a nice flavor and texture to the sandwich, and they can help enhance the overall experience.
That being said, if you’re looking for an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience, it’s worth keeping the toppings to a minimum. The classic Philly cheesesteak is all about simplicity and elegance, so it’s best to let the steak, cheese, and bread shine. If you do decide to add other toppings, be sure to use them sparingly, so they don’t overpower the other ingredients.
Where can I find the best Philly cheesesteak with cheese in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia is the birthplace of the Philly cheesesteak, and it’s home to many amazing cheesesteak joints. Some of the most famous spots include Pat’s King of Steaks, Geno’s Steaks, and Jim’s Steaks. These places have been serving up classic Philly cheesesteaks for decades, and they’re a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic experience.
That being said, there are many other great cheesesteak joints in Philadelphia, and the best one for you will depend on your personal preferences. Some places may offer unique variations or specialty cheesesteaks, while others may have a more classic, old-school vibe. Be sure to do some research and read reviews before you go, so you can find the perfect spot for your taste buds.