Patrick Oconnell
The Philly Cheesesteak is an iconic sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the 1930s. It is traditionally made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, caramelized onions, and cheese, all piled into a hoagie roll. While there is some debate about which cheese is best, the three most common options are mild provolone, white American cheese, and Cheez Whiz. Some people also like to add toppings such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or hot peppers, though purists may only add onions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Provolone, American, Mozzarella, Sharp Cheddar, White American, Cooper Sharp, Cheez Whiz |
| Cheese texture | Melty, gooey, mild, neutral flavor |
| Bread | Hoagie roll, Amoroso roll |
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What You'll Learn
Provolone is a popular choice
Philly cheesesteaks are traditionally made with thinly shaved steak, usually ribeye, and cooked on a griddle. The steak is chopped into very small pieces and cooked with vegetables, such as peppers and onions. The roll is also important, with the classic Philly cheesesteak served on an Amoroso roll, although a hoagie roll is a common substitute.
Provolone is not the only cheese used on Philly cheesesteaks. Other popular options include Cheez Whiz, American cheese, mozzarella, and a blend of provolone and mozzarella. Some people also add pizza sauce or tomato sauce to their sandwiches.
Philly cheesesteaks are a popular and well-loved dish, with people having strong opinions on the best way to make them. The sandwiches are often made at home, with people experimenting with different ingredients to create their perfect version.
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Cheez Whiz is a common addition
Philly cheesesteaks are traditionally made with thinly shaved steak (usually ribeye or top sirloin) and cooked on a griddle. The steak is typically topped with caramelized onions and bell peppers, and of course, lots of cheese. While provolone is a popular choice due to its neutral flavour and melt, Cheez Whiz is also a common addition. It adds a creamy, cheesy texture to the sandwich and complements the other ingredients well.
Some people prefer to make their own version of Cheez Whiz, while others opt for the store-bought variety. The sandwich is then stuffed into a toasted hoagie roll or an Amoroso roll, which can be hard to find outside of Philadelphia. The roll is an important component of the sandwich, as a bland or soft roll can detract from the overall taste experience.
So, if you're looking to make an authentic Philly cheesesteak, don't forget to include Cheez Whiz as a topping option! It's a classic choice that will surely satisfy your cravings for this iconic sandwich.
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American cheese is a good melter
American cheese is a popular choice for a Philly cheesesteak. It is a good melter, which is an important quality for a cheesesteak, as the cheese needs to be melty and gooey. The cheese is also mild or sharp in flavour, which makes it a good choice for those who want a cheesesteak with a kick.
Philly cheesesteaks are made with thinly shaved steak, usually ribeye, and are traditionally cooked on a griddle. They are served in a hoagie roll, which can be toasted first to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy. The roll is an important component of the sandwich, as it needs to stand up to the weight of the filling.
The cheesesteak is a simple sandwich, with just three core elements: beef, cheese, and bread. However, it is a dish that people are very opinionated about, and there are many variations. Some people add vegetables such as peppers, onions, and mushrooms, and others add sauces like mayo, horseradish, or Worcestershire sauce.
When it comes to the cheese, provolone is a popular choice due to its neutral flavour and melting abilities. Other options include Cheez Whiz, mozzarella, or a blend of provolone and mozzarella. Ultimately, the choice of cheese is a matter of personal preference, and some people may prefer a different type of cheese that melts well, such as American cheese.
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Mozzarella blends well with provolone
While there are many different types of cheese that can be used in a Philly cheesesteak, some of the most popular options are provolone and mozzarella. Provolone is a firm Italian cheese with a mild flavour, which melts well and is often used in sandwiches. Mozzarella is another mild, melting cheese that is commonly used in dishes such as pizza and lasagna.
When it comes to making a Philly cheesesteak, the combination of mozzarella and provolone cheeses can be a great option. Mozzarella blends well with provolone as it has a similar texture and flavour profile. Both cheeses are mild and melting, which means they can enhance the flavour of the steak without overwhelming it. Additionally, the combination of the two cheeses can create a creamy, stretchy texture that is desirable in a sandwich.
The key to a successful Philly cheesesteak is to use high-quality ingredients and to ensure that the cheese is melted properly. The sandwich typically consists of thinly shaved steak, which is cooked on a griddle or in a pan, and then loaded into a hoagie roll. The cheese is then melted over the steak, creating a protective barrier that prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
When combining mozzarella and provolone for a Philly cheesesteak, it is important to shred the cheeses finely so that they melt evenly and create a smooth, creamy texture. Experimenting with different ratios of mozzarella to provolone can also lead to a unique flavour and texture profile that suits individual tastes.
Ultimately, the choice of cheese for a Philly cheesesteak comes down to personal preference, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. However, the combination of mozzarella and provolone can be a great option for those seeking a classic, creamy, and flavourful sandwich experience.
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Sharp cheddar is a tasty option
When making a Philly cheesesteak, it's important to use thinly sliced steak, typically ribeye or top sirloin. The meat is seasoned and cooked until tender, then piled into a hoagie roll. The cheese is then added, melting into the beef and veggie mixture. A sharp cheddar will melt nicely and provide a good contrast in texture and flavour to the other ingredients.
While some people prefer the classic provolone or Cheez Whiz, sharp cheddar offers a slightly different take on the traditional Philly cheesesteak. It adds a bit of extra flavour and creaminess to the sandwich. The sharpness of the cheddar can also help to cut through the richness of the steak and other toppings.
To make the perfect Philly cheesesteak with sharp cheddar, start by thinly slicing your steak and seasoning it with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Sauté your veggies, such as onions and peppers, until tender. Combine the steak and veggies in a pan, then top with shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Let the cheese melt, then stuff the mixture into a toasted hoagie roll.
Using sharp cheddar on a Philly cheesesteak is a great way to add a bit of extra flavour and creaminess to this classic sandwich. It's a simple yet effective twist on the traditional recipe that any cheese lover is sure to enjoy.
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Frequently asked questions
The classic Philly Cheesesteak is topped with Cheez Whiz, a processed cheese product with a distinctively gooey texture.
Many people dislike the use of Cheez Whiz, preferring to use provolone, an Italian cheese that melts well and has a strong flavour. Other options include American cheese, mozzarella, Swiss, or cheddar.
This is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer the classic, messy Cheez Whiz, while others prefer the stronger flavour of provolone. If you're feeling fancy, you could try making a beer/cheese sauce or using a truffled brie.
Again, this is up to you. You can add as much or as little cheese as you like. If you want a really cheesy Philly cheesesteak, add enough cheese to cover the meat in the skillet, plus an extra 1-3 slices on top.
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