Frederic Melton
The Philly cheesesteak is a sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It traditionally consists of three elements: beef, cheese, and bread. While there is some debate about the best cut of beef to use, ribeye is the most popular choice for an authentic Philly cheesesteak. It is sliced thinly and has a bold beef flavor with a good amount of marbling. Other options include top sirloin, top/eye of round, and skirt steak. The choice of cheese is also debated, with some preferring provolone, while others opt for American cheese or Cheez Whiz.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Best cut of beef for Philly cheesesteak | Tenderloin, ribeye, chuck eye, sirloin/top, eye of round, top round |
| Texture | Thinly shaved, super beefy, tender |
| Taste | Well-marbled with fat, delicious |
| Cost | Expensive |
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What You'll Learn
Ribeye is the most popular choice for Philly cheesesteaks
While there are several options for the cut of steak used in a Philly cheesesteak, ribeye is the most popular choice. This is because ribeye has an assertive beefy flavour and is well-marbled with delicious fat. When thinly sliced and cooked, ribeye remains tender and juicy.
Philly cheesesteaks are defined by their thinly shaved beef, and ribeye is a soft enough cut to be sliced just short of paper-thin. To achieve these thin slices, some people suggest freezing the steak for around an hour before cutting. This allows the meat to firm up without freezing, making it easier to slice thinly with a sharp knife.
Some people argue that ribeye is too expensive to be used for Philly cheesesteaks. However, others claim that it is the only acceptable cut of meat for an authentic Philly cheesesteak. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative, skirt steak is a good option that is easier to slice and has a similar flavour to ribeye.
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Cheaper cuts of steak can be used if thinly sliced
While ribeye is the most popular cut of beef for Philly cheesesteaks, it can be expensive. Cheaper cuts of steak can be used if thinly sliced.
Philly cheesesteaks are traditionally made with thinly sliced beef, cooked until browned, and served in a soft hoagie roll with cheese and onions. The thin slices of beef ensure the meat remains tender, even when cooked for a long time.
If you want to use a cheaper cut of steak, it is best to slice the meat thinly. Freezing the meat for an hour or so before slicing will make it easier to cut thin slices. You can also ask your butcher to slice the meat for you.
Some recommended cheaper cuts of steak for Philly cheesesteaks include top sirloin, top/eye of round, and skirt steak. These cuts may be less marbled and slightly tougher than ribeye, but they can still work well for Philly cheesesteaks when sliced thinly.
So, if you're looking to make a delicious Philly cheesesteak on a budget, don't be afraid to opt for a cheaper cut of steak and slice it thinly. With the right technique and some tasty toppings, you can still create a mouth-watering sandwich.
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Top sirloin is a good alternative to ribeye
While ribeye is the most common choice for Philly cheesesteaks, top sirloin is a good alternative. This is because, when cooked properly, both cuts deliver juicy, tender, and beefy results.
Ribeye is considered a more premium and luxurious cut of steak, making it more expensive than top sirloin. It is also fattier, with a rich marbling of fat that makes it ideal for grilling on an open flame. On the other hand, top sirloin is a leaner cut of beef, as it comes from a well-exercised region of the cow. It is more affordable and accessible, making it a good choice for everyday meals.
Top sirloin is also a versatile cut that can be grilled whole or incorporated into various dishes. It cooks up quickly and easily, making it a convenient choice for weeknight dinners. For the best results when grilling top sirloin, it is important to ensure that the grill is thoroughly heated before adding the steak. This will help it cook more evenly and prevent drying out.
While ribeye is known for its tender texture and robust flavour, top sirloin can still be a delicious option for Philly cheesesteaks. It is a versatile and affordable cut that, when cooked properly, can result in a juicy and tender steak.
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Some people prefer chuck eye or top round
While ribeye is the most popular choice for Philly cheesesteaks, some people prefer chuck eye or top round. This is because these cuts are more affordable and easier to slice thinly at home.
Philly cheesesteaks are traditionally made with thinly shaved, super beefy ribeye that is finely chopped and slowly browned in its own fat and juices. However, ribeye can be quite expensive, so some people opt for cheaper cuts of meat like chuck eye or top round.
Chuck eye and top round are more affordable options that can still be sliced thinly for Philly cheesesteaks. One person mentions that they prefer to use eye of round or top round because they tend to slice better. Another person says that they use chuck eye for their Philly cheesesteaks and add apple cider vinegar to their marinade to make the meat less tough.
Ultimately, the best cut of meat for a Philly cheesesteak is a matter of personal preference and budget. While ribeye is the traditional choice, chuck eye and top round are also suitable options that can be more cost-effective.
To mimic the thin slices of meat typically used in Philly cheesesteaks, some people suggest putting the meat in the freezer until it is stiff but not frozen, then using a sharp knife to slice it as thinly as possible. This technique can be used with any cut of meat to achieve the desired thinness for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich.
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Sirloin is pre-sliced, but ribeye is better for flavour
When it comes to choosing the right steak for a Philly cheesesteak, there are a few options to consider. While some people may opt for pre-sliced sirloin, others argue that ribeye offers a superior flavour for this classic sandwich.
The Philly cheesesteak is a beloved staple, consisting of three essential elements: beef, cheese, and bread. While some variations exist, purists insist on keeping it simple with steak, cheese, and onions. To achieve the perfect texture and taste, the beef must be sliced thinly. This is especially important if you're using a cheaper cut, as thinner slices will ensure a tender bite.
For those seeking the ultimate flavour, ribeye is the preferred choice. Ribeye boasts a robust beefy flavour and is well-marbled with delicious fat. When thinly sliced and cooked until browned, ribeye retains its tenderness, delivering a mouthwatering bite every time. Its open-grained texture also makes it ideal for easy slicing, contributing to its popularity among Philly cheesesteak enthusiasts.
While ribeye may be the star, other steak options can still deliver a tasty sandwich. Top sirloin, for instance, is a viable alternative. Although it tends to be slightly less marbled and tougher than ribeye, using a high-quality variety like Wagyu can elevate the flavour and tenderness. Additionally, pre-sliced sirloin is readily available and convenient for those who don't want to slice their own steak.
If you're working with a tighter budget, there are still ways to achieve delicious results. Skirt steak, for instance, typically costs half the price of ribeye, yet offers a flavour profile similar to its pricier counterpart. By thinly slicing the steak and cooking it just right, you can create a scrumptious Philly cheesesteak at a fraction of the cost.
In conclusion, while pre-sliced sirloin may be a convenient option, ribeye takes the crown when it comes to flavour. Its well-marbled texture, tender bite, and robust flavour make it the top choice for anyone seeking an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience. However, with a few clever alternatives and cooking techniques, you can still craft a mouthwatering sandwich without breaking the bank.
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Frequently asked questions
A short loin steak is not the traditional cut of beef used for a Philly cheesesteak. The most commonly used cut is ribeye, which is sliced thinly and cooked until browned to retain its tenderness.
Other recommended cuts of steak for a Philly cheesesteak include chuck eye, sirloin, top sirloin, eye of round, and skirt steak.
To achieve thinly sliced beef for a Philly cheesesteak, place the steak in the freezer for about an hour before slicing. This will make it easier to cut thin slices.
The Philly cheesesteak is typically made with beef, cheese, and bread. The type of cheese used is often Provolone or American cheese. Some also add sautéed onions, mushrooms, and peppers.
