Andy Montoya
The cheesesteak sandwich, also known as the Philadelphia cheesesteak, Philly cheesesteak, cheese steak, or steak and cheese, is a sandwich made from thinly sliced pieces of beefsteak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll. While the traditional cheesesteak uses American cheese, provolone, or Cheez Whiz, some people are now using mozzarella cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Most common cheese | Provolone, American cheese, Cheez Whiz |
| Less common cheese | Mozzarella, Swiss, Jack, Horseradish cheddar |
| Most common additions | Sautéed onions, grilled mushrooms, ketchup, hot sauce, salt, black pepper |
| Less common additions | Sauteed peppers, mushrooms, lettuce, tomato, mayo, hot peppers |
| Bread | Long hoagie roll |
| Meat | Thinly sliced ribeye or top round |
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What You'll Learn
Mozzarella is not a traditional choice for cheesesteaks
The cheesesteak, a sandwich made from thinly sliced pieces of beefsteak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll, is a popular regional fast food that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The meat traditionally used is thinly sliced rib-eye or top round, although other cuts of beef are also used. The most common cheeses used in cheesesteaks are American cheese, provolone, and Cheez Whiz. Mozzarella is not a traditional choice for cheesesteaks, and some people from Philadelphia have expressed strong opinions against using mozzarella on cheesesteaks.
While mozzarella is not a traditional choice for cheesesteaks, some people do use it. For example, some people have shared recipes for Philly cheesesteaks with mozzarella, and some restaurants in Philadelphia may add mozzarella if requested by customers. In addition, some people who have tried Philly cheesesteaks with mozzarella have given them good reviews.
American cheese was first added to the cheesesteak sandwich in March 1951 by "Cocky Joe" Lorenza, a manager at the Ridge Avenue location of Pat's restaurant, according to Pat's son Herb Olivieri. However, other members of the Olivieri family may say it was provolone. There is some dispute over whether Pat's was the first to add cheese, and to date, no concrete evidence has emerged to disprove Olivieri's story.
Over time, variations of cheesesteaks have become common in several fast-food chains, and versions of the sandwich can also be found at high-end restaurants. Many establishments outside of Philadelphia refer to the sandwich as a "Philly cheesesteak". While American cheese, provolone, and Cheez Whiz are the most commonly used cheeses, some people may use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella. However, it is important to note that using mozzarella in a cheesesteak is not traditional and may be considered controversial by some people, especially those from Philadelphia.
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Provolone, American cheese, and Cheez Whiz are more common
While mozzarella cheese is sometimes used on cheesesteaks, it is not the most common choice in Philadelphia. The traditional cheesesteak sandwich, also known as the Philly cheesesteak, originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and has become a popular regional fast food. It is typically made with thinly sliced beefsteak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll.
In Philadelphia, the addition of cheese to the original sandwich is attributed to "Cocky Joe" Lorenza, a manager at the Ridge Avenue location of Pat's restaurant in 1951. However, other members of the Olivieri family, who owned Pat's, claim it was provolone cheese that was first added. This dispute has not been settled conclusively.
While mozzarella cheese is mentioned in some recipes and variations, it is not as widely used as the aforementioned cheeses. Some people from Philadelphia express strong opinions against using mozzarella, stating that it is not a traditional choice. However, there are also individuals who have shared their positive experiences with adding mozzarella to their homemade cheesesteaks.
Overall, while mozzarella cheese may be used by some, the more common cheeses for a Philly cheesesteak in Philadelphia are Provolone, American cheese, and Cheez Whiz. These cheeses have a longer history and stronger association with the classic sandwich.
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Some people like to experiment with different cheeses
The Philly Cheesesteak is a sandwich made from thinly sliced beefsteak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll. The classic cheesesteak is made with ribeye steak, caramelized onions, and provolone cheese. However, some people like to experiment with different cheeses.
While provolone is the most popular cheese for Philly Cheesesteaks, some people use mozzarella cheese. Mozzarella Philly Cheesesteaks are often made at home, but some restaurants in Philadelphia also serve them. One source says that mozzarella on a Philly Cheesesteak is a "monstrosity", but others enjoy the combination.
Some people also use a combination of cheeses on their Philly Cheesesteaks. One recipe uses a blend of Swiss and mozzarella cheese sticks, while another uses white American cheese, provolone, and horseradish cheddar. Another recipe uses provolone, jack, and mozzarella cheeses.
In addition to experimenting with different cheeses, people also like to add other ingredients to their Philly Cheesesteaks. Some common additions include sautéed onions, grilled mushrooms, ketchup, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper. Some people also like to add peppers to their Philly Cheesesteaks, although this is a controversial topic.
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The type of bread is important for authenticity
The type of bread used in a Philly cheesesteak sandwich is an important factor in its authenticity. The original cheesesteak sandwich, which was created in the 1930s, was made with Italian bread. Specifically, it was served on a small Italian loaf or roll. These days, the preferred bread for an authentic Philly cheesesteak is a hoagie roll, which is a long roll made with white bread. Hoagie rolls are also known as sub rolls or hero sandwiches.
Kaiser rolls are another option for containing your cheesesteak, and these are round bread rolls. However, if you want to be truly authentic, a long roll is the way to go. The bread should also be fresh, and some recipes call for it to be toasted.
The bread forms an important part of the Philly cheesesteak experience, and some people believe that the bread is what makes a Philly cheesesteak sandwich unique. One source claims that the bread is "soooo good" and that nothing compares to "Philly bread".
So, if you're looking to create an authentic Philly cheesesteak experience, don't skimp on the bread! Choose a fresh, white hoagie roll, and you'll be well on your way to enjoying this classic sandwich.
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The cheesesteak was invented in Philadelphia in the early 20th century
The cheesesteak, also known as the Philly cheesesteak or Philadelphia cheesesteak, is a sandwich that was invented in Philadelphia in the early 20th century. It is a regional fast-food item that has become popular across the United States and the world. The sandwich is made with thinly sliced beefsteak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll.
There are several stories about the origins of the cheesesteak. One popular account credits two brothers, Pat and Harry Olivieri, who ran a hot dog stand near South Philadelphia's Italian Market in the early 1930s. They are said to have created the sandwich by serving chopped steak on an Italian roll. The original sandwich did not have cheese, and it was only later that a manager at the Olivieri's Ridge Ave. location added cheese, thus creating the cheesesteak. Another story suggests that Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor, invented the cheesesteak in 1930 when he grilled beef for a sandwich, and soon gained a following.
Over time, the cheesesteak has evolved, and different ingredients and flavours have been added. While provolone is a popular choice for cheese, some people also use American cheese, Cheez Whiz, or mozzarella. The use of mozzarella, however, is controversial among some Philadelphians, who consider it non-traditional. Other common additions to the sandwich include sautéed onions, grilled mushrooms, ketchup, hot sauce, salt, black pepper, and various types of peppers.
The cheesesteak has become a beloved food item in Philadelphia, with many restaurants offering their unique twists on the original recipe. It has also inspired similar sandwiches in other establishments, such as "Philly Cheesesteak Wraps" by Pillsbury and "Philly Steak and Cheese" Hot Pockets by Nestlé.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, some people in Philadelphia do use mozzarella cheese on cheesesteaks. However, it is not a traditional choice, with some Philadelphians expressing outrage at the idea.
The traditional cheese used in Philly cheesesteaks is mild provolone. However, American cheese and Cheez Whiz are also popular choices.
The steak of choice for a Philly cheesesteak is ribeye, sliced very thinly. Flank steak is another option, although it requires a little extra oil.
The Philly cheesesteak was developed in the early 20th century in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is believed to have been invented by Philadelphians Pat and Harry Olivieri, who originally sold hot dogs. The story goes that one day they decided to make a new sandwich using chopped beef and grilled onions. The sandwich became so popular that Pat opened his own restaurant, which still operates today as Pat's King of Steaks.
Common additions to the Philly cheesesteak include sautéed onions, grilled mushrooms, ketchup, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper. Some people also add peppers, although this is a controversial choice. Outside of Philadelphia, cheesesteaks are often made with different types of cheese, such as Swiss or cheddar.
