Patrick Oconnell
The Philly cheesesteak is a sandwich native to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It consists of thinly sliced steak, cheese, and bread. The sandwich is usually served on a hoagie roll, which is long, soft, and slightly salted. The steak is typically ribeye, top round, or sirloin, and the cheese is usually provolone, Cheez Whiz, or American cheese. While the sandwich is often served with only steak, it can also include sautéed onions, peppers, and mushrooms. The standard Philly cheesesteak is around a foot long.
What You'll Learn
The length of a standard Philadelphia cheesesteak
The standard Philadelphia cheesesteak is a large sandwich, typically served on a long hoagie roll. The length of the sandwich is determined by the size of the roll, which can vary, but is typically between 7 and 12 inches.
The cheesesteak is a regional fast-food dish that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the early 20th century. It is a sandwich made with thinly sliced beefsteak and melted cheese, served on a long hoagie roll. The sandwich is often accompanied by sautéed onions, grilled mushrooms, ketchup, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper.
The standard Philadelphia cheesesteak is typically made with a ribeye or top round cut of beef, which is thinly sliced and cooked on a griddle or in a skillet. The cheese used can vary, but common choices include provolone, Cheez Whiz, American cheese, or a combination of these.
When preparing a Philadelphia cheesesteak, it is important to thinly slice the steak. This can be done by partially freezing the meat to make it easier to slice, or by using a meat slicer. The steak is then cooked quickly on a griddle or in a skillet, and the cheese is added and allowed to melt. The sandwich is then assembled by scooping the steak and cheese mixture into the hoagie roll, which may be toasted beforehand.
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What type of bread is used
When it comes to the iconic Philadelphia cheesesteak, the choice of bread is just as important as the fillings. The bread is the foundation that holds all the delicious ingredients together, and the right type of bread can make or break the entire experience. So, what type of bread is traditionally used for this famous sandwich?
The bread of choice for an authentic Philadelphia cheesesteak is typically an Italian-style roll. These rolls are known for their soft and slightly chewy texture, with a thin, crispy crust. They are usually longer and narrower than a typical hamburger bun, measuring around 8 to 10 inches in length. This size is crucial to accommodate the generous filling of thinly sliced steak and melted cheese.
The Italian roll, also known as a hoagie roll or sub roll in other parts of the country, has a delicate balance of softness and chewiness that makes it perfect for the cheesesteak. It should be able to absorb the juices from the steak and toppings without becoming soggy, while still providing a satisfying bite. The crust, though thin, should have just enough crunch to provide a textural contrast to the tender steak and creamy cheese.
Preparing the bread is also an important step in assembling the perfect cheesesteak. The roll is usually sliced lengthwise, but not all the way through, so that it can be opened like a book. It may be lightly toasted or grilled to give it a bit of extra crunch and to help it hold up better against the warm, juicy fillings. Some cheesesteak enthusiasts also prefer to have the inside of the roll lightly coated with a thin layer of oil or butter, adding a bit of extra richness to the sandwich.
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What type of cheese is used
When it comes to the iconic Philadelphia cheesesteak, the choice of cheese is just as important as the meat itself. The cheese plays a pivotal role in binding all the ingredients together and adding a creamy, savory dimension to the sandwich. So, what type of cheese is typically used in this famous delicacy?
The short answer is that there is no single correct answer, as different steak shops and enthusiasts may have their own preferences. However, two types of cheese stand out as the most traditional and popular choices: Cheez Whiz and provolone.
Cheez Whiz, a processed cheese sauce, might be the more controversial option, but it has a long history with the Philadelphia cheesesteak. Its creamy texture and salty flavor have made it a favorite for many. Pat Olivieri, the owner of Pat's King of Steaks, is often credited with introducing Cheez Whiz to the sandwich in the 1960s. Since then, it has become a beloved, if divisive, addition to the cheesesteak.
On the other hand, provolone is a natural cheese made from cow's milk and is a common choice for those who want a more subtle, less processed flavor. Provolone has a mild, slightly smoky taste and a semi-hard texture that melts beautifully when heated. It provides a nice stretch to the sandwich without overwhelming the other ingredients.
While Cheez Whiz and provolone are the most common choices, some variations do exist. American cheese, with its mild flavor and smooth melt, is sometimes used. Some adventurous chefs might even experiment with sharper cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack, though these options are less traditional.
Ultimately, the choice of cheese comes down to personal preference. Whether you opt for the classic Cheez Whiz or the more subtle provolone, the cheese plays a critical role in transforming a simple steak sandwich into the iconic, mouthwatering Philadelphia cheesesteak. It adds flavor, texture, and that signature gooey factor that makes the sandwich so beloved by many.
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What type of steak is used
The type of steak used for a Philadelphia cheesesteak is a topic of debate, with some arguing for ribeye, and others for top sirloin. However, it is agreed that the meat should be thinly sliced, and well-marbled with fat.
Ribeye is considered the classic choice for a Philly cheesesteak. It has a strong beefy flavour and is well-marbled with fat, which keeps the meat tender as it cooks. However, it is an expensive option. Top sirloin, specifically petite sirloin, is a more affordable alternative that is still tender and flavourful. It is also a thinner cut, so requires less slicing.
Other options include skirt steak, which is cheaper and easier to slice, and has a similar flavour profile to ribeye. Flank steak is also sometimes used, but it is a tougher cut of meat that requires a longer cooking time.
When preparing the steak for a Philadelphia cheesesteak, it is important to slice it thinly against the grain. Freezing the meat for 20-30 minutes beforehand can make it easier to slice.
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What to serve with a Philadelphia cheesesteak
When it comes to serving a Philadelphia cheesesteak, there are a few classic sides that perfectly complement this iconic sandwich. First and foremost, let's set the stage for your cheesesteak by recommending some ideal side dishes. Here are some options to consider:
Fries: Crispy, golden fries are a natural partner for any sandwich, and the cheesesteak is no exception. Go for thick-cut, steak fries, or opt for thinner, crispier shoestring fries. Either way, they provide a crunchy contrast to the tender meat and melted cheese of the sandwich.
Onion Rings: Another deep-fried delight, onion rings are a popular choice alongside cheesesteaks. Look for large, sweet onion rings with a light, crispy batter that provides texture without overwhelming the flavor of the onions.
Salads: To balance out the heartiness of the cheesesteak, consider a fresh, crisp salad. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich sandwich. Or, try a more substantial salad, like a classic, creamy coleslaw, or a potato salad loaded with flavor.
Pickles: Pickles are a must-have for any cheesesteak. Look for crisp, sour dill pickles, or go for something with a little more kick, like spicy, garlicky pickle chips. They provide a burst of flavor and a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the cheesesteak.
Soup: On colder days, a bowl of soup can be the ideal companion to a warm, toasty cheesesteak. Go for a classic, like a creamy tomato soup, or try something with a bit more spice, like a hearty chili.
Now, let's talk about some drink options to accompany your meal:
Soft Drinks: A classic Philly cheesesteak pairs well with an ice-cold soft drink. Go for a cola to cut through the richness of the sandwich, or opt for something with a bit more fizz, like a root beer or ginger ale.
Beer: For the beer lovers out there, a crisp, refreshing lager or pilsner can be the perfect match for a cheesesteak. The light, bubbly nature of these beers cleanses the palate and prepares you for the next bite.
Iced Tea: Sweet or unsweetened, iced tea is a refreshing choice to accompany the cheesesteak. It's a great option for those who want something a little lighter to sip on alongside their sandwich.
There you have it! Whether you're a traditionalist or looking for something new, these sides and drinks will perfectly complement your Philadelphia cheesesteak experience. Enjoy!
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Frequently asked questions
A standard Philadelphia cheesesteak is usually around 7 to 12 inches long. The exact length may vary depending on the size of the hoagie roll or baguette used.
A traditional Philadelphia cheesesteak is typically served on a hoagie roll, specifically an Amoroso roll. However, other similar rolls such as Liscio's or Sarcone's can also be used. Outside of Philadelphia, a baguette or other types of bread may be used.
The key ingredients in a Philadelphia cheesesteak are thinly sliced steak, typically ribeye or top sirloin, and cheese, typically provolone, Cheez Whiz, or American cheese. Onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms are also commonly added.
