The Perfect Philly: Condiments To Compliment Cheesy, Meaty Deliciousness

The Philly Cheesesteak is a classic American sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in the 1930s. It traditionally consists of thinly sliced steak, onions, and melted cheese on a hoagie roll. The question of what condiment goes on a Philly Cheesesteak is a contentious one. Some purists insist that no condiments are needed, while others argue that a variety of sauces can enhance the flavour of the sandwich. Suggested toppings include ketchup, mustard, hot sauce, garlic aioli, and a creamy chipotle sauce. One of the most popular choices is a cheese sauce, with the classic option being Cheez Whiz.

Horseradish sauce

While the classic Philly cheesesteak is often served without any condiments, some people prefer to add a sauce to enhance the flavour. Horseradish sauce is a unique and tasty option, offering a tangy and spicy twist to the traditional cheesesteak. The sauce can be made with varying levels of spiciness, depending on personal preference.

One recipe for a horseradish sauce includes mayonnaise, prepared horseradish, garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper. This creates a creamy and savoury sauce with a kick from the garlic and horseradish. The Chunky Chef, a popular food blog, features a similar recipe with the addition of sugar and garlic, creating a sweet and spicy sauce.

Another recipe, by Grilling Montana, suggests a blue cheese horseradish sauce. This sauce combines blue cheese crumbles with prepared horseradish, mayonnaise, sour cream, or plain yoghurt. The addition of blue cheese creates a stronger flavour profile and a unique twist on the traditional cheesesteak.

When preparing a Philly cheesesteak with horseradish sauce, it is recommended to use ribeye steak, caramelised onions, and provolone cheese. The steak should be sliced thinly and cooked to a medium-rare or medium doneness. Toasting the roll beforehand and adding grilled onions and peppers can also enhance the flavour of the sandwich.

Overall, horseradish sauce is a delicious and unconventional condiment for a Philly cheesesteak. It adds a creamy texture and a spicy kick to the sandwich, making it a tasty variation to the traditional recipe.

Cheese sauce

Ingredients

A basic cheese sauce can be made with just three ingredients: butter, flour, and milk. However, for a Philly cheesesteak, you'll want to add some cheese. Cheddar and Velveeta are a good combination, but you can also use a mix of sharp cheddar and American cheese, or aged Provolone and Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Method

First, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Gradually add the flour, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. This will create a thick mixture called a roux. Next, slowly add some milk to the roux and cook over low heat, stirring until it thickens. Then, add the cheese and the remaining milk, and cook until you have a smooth sauce. Keep the sauce warm while you prepare the rest of the sandwich.

Serving

To assemble your Philly cheesesteak, start by placing slices of steak on the bottom half of a hoagie roll. Then, spoon the cheese sauce over the meat, and top with any other desired ingredients, such as mushrooms, onions, or peppers. Finally, place the top half of the roll on top, and enjoy!

Ketchup

While the classic Philly cheesesteak is usually served without condiments, ketchup is a common addition to the sandwich. Ketchup is often added to a Philly cheesesteak to enhance its flavours and moisture, especially if the sandwich is dry or bland. The tartness of ketchup can cut through the richness of the cheese while enhancing its overall flavour. However, some people from Philadelphia, where the sandwich originated, may consider it a sin to add ketchup to a Philly cheesesteak. They believe that a well-made Philly cheesesteak is flavourful enough on its own, and that the strong flavour profile of ketchup would only serve to mask the taste of the sandwich.

While the classic Philly cheesesteak is made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, fried onions and peppers, and cheese, the addition of condiments is entirely up to the eater. Some people may prefer to add condiments like ketchup, mustard, or hot sauce, while others may prefer to stick to the classic recipe. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to add ketchup to a Philly cheesesteak is a matter of personal preference.

Mustard

However, that doesn't mean you can't experiment with mustard on your Philly Cheesesteak! Here are some ideas on how to incorporate mustard into this delicious sandwich:

Experiment with Different Mustards:

Explore the wide variety of mustards available, such as spicy brown mustard, Dijon mustard, or whole grain mustard. Each type of mustard has a distinct flavour and texture that can add a unique twist to your sandwich.

Use Mustard in Moderation:

Remember that Philly Cheesesteaks are already packed with bold flavours. A little bit of mustard can go a long way, so start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.

Combine Mustard with Other Condiments:

Spread Mustard on the Hoagie Roll:

Instead of applying mustard directly to the meat or cheese, try spreading a thin layer on the hoagie roll. This will distribute the flavour more evenly throughout the sandwich.

Create a Mustard-Based Cheese Sauce:

If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with creating a cheese sauce that incorporates mustard. This can add a tangy kick to your Philly Cheesesteak and make it truly unique.

Remember, while mustard may not be a traditional condiment for the Philly Cheesesteak, there's no harm in experimenting and adding your personal touch to this classic sandwich. Get creative and find what combinations you enjoy the most!

Hot sauce

There are many different types of hot sauce that can be used on a Philly cheesesteak. One option is Sriracha, which is a popular hot sauce that is known for its spicy, savoury flavour. Another option is a hot sauce such as Tabasco or Cholula, which will add a spicy kick to the sandwich. If you're feeling adventurous, you could even make your own hot sauce at home by blending chillies, garlic, and other spices.

When adding hot sauce to a Philly cheesesteak, it's important to use a light hand. A little hot sauce goes a long way, and too much can overpower the other flavours in the sandwich. It's also a good idea to choose a hot sauce that complements the other toppings on your sandwich. For example, if you're using peppers in your cheesesteak, a hot sauce with a pepper base, such as chilli pepper sauce, might be a good choice.

In addition to hot sauce, there are several other condiments that can be used to enhance the flavour of a Philly cheesesteak. These include ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise. While these condiments may not be traditional, they can add a creamy or tangy flavour to the sandwich that some people enjoy. Ultimately, the choice of condiment comes down to personal preference, and there is no one-size-fits-all answer.

Frequently asked questions