Philly Cheese Sandwich: The Ultimate Guide To Ingredients

The Philly cheesesteak is an iconic sandwich that originated in Philadelphia in 1930. It's traditionally made with thinly sliced steak, caramelized onions, and cheese, served on a hoagie roll. While the classic Philly cheesesteak is simple, consisting of just steak, onions, and cheese, some like to add sautéed bell peppers and mushrooms. The best cut of beef for a Philly cheesesteak is well-marbled and tender, such as ribeye or sirloin, and the cheese is typically provolone or Cheez Whiz.

The best cut of beef for a Philly cheese sandwich

Philly Cheesesteaks are made with thinly sliced steak, caramelised onions, and melted cheese. The best cut of beef for this sandwich is one that can be sliced thinly, cooks quickly, and stays juicy. The traditional choice is ribeye, but sirloin is a more affordable option that fits the bill perfectly.

Ribeye

Ribeye is a well-marbled cut of beef that is commonly used for Philly Cheesesteaks. It has a good amount of fat, which keeps the meat juicy and flavourful. However, ribeye can be expensive, especially considering the amount of beef needed for a Philly Cheesesteak recipe.

Sirloin

Sirloin is a more affordable alternative to ribeye and is still a great cut of beef for Philly Cheesesteaks. Specifically, petite sirloin is a thinner cut, which means less slicing work, and it's plenty tender. Top sirloin is also a good choice, but it's a bit pricier and requires more slicing.

To get the thinnest slices for your Philly Cheesesteak, place your steak in the freezer for 15 to 30 minutes before slicing. This will make it easier to cut thin, even strips.

Once you've chosen your cut of beef, the next step is to season and cook the meat. A blend of herbs and spices, such as black pepper, chilli powder, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, marjoram, and basil, can be used to add flavour to the steak. Sautéing the steak in a skillet over medium-high heat will give you a juicy and flavourful result.

The type of cheese and bread you use are also important components of a Philly Cheesesteak. Provolone, Swiss cheese, or American cheese are all popular choices that melt well and have a mild flavour. As for the bread, a soft hoagie roll, sub bun, or Italian hero roll with a "hinge" to hold all the ingredients together is ideal.

The best cheese for a Philly cheese sandwich

The Best Cheese for a Philly Cheesesteak

The Philly Cheesesteak is one of America's most iconic sandwiches, but what is the best cheese to use? The answer to this question is hotly debated, with some people saying that Cheez Whiz is the only proper cheese, while others prefer provolone. Most places in Philadelphia, the birthplace of the sandwich, will offer both options, so you can choose according to your taste.

Cheez Whiz

Cheez Whiz is a processed cheese sauce, often sold in jars or cans, that is known for its bright orange colour and creamy texture. It is made with a blend of cheese, milk, and other ingredients, and has a mild, slightly tangy flavour. While some people may turn up their noses at the idea of using a processed cheese on a sandwich, Cheez Whiz has a loyal following among Philly Cheesesteak enthusiasts. It is known for making the sandwich extra messy, which some people consider to be a good thing!

Provolone

Provolone is a mild Italian cheese with a slightly nutty flavour. It melts easily and has a creamy texture, making it a popular choice for sandwiches and other melted cheese applications. Those who prefer provolone on their Philly Cheesesteak often cite the fact that it is a more legitimate cheese option than Cheez Whiz.

Other Options

While Cheez Whiz and provolone are the two most common choices, there are a few other cheeses that you could consider using on your Philly Cheesesteak. These include:

• American cheese: a mild, melting cheese that is similar to provolone but with a slightly stronger flavour.
• Cheddar: a sharp, tangy cheese that can add a bit of extra flavour to your sandwich.
• Blue cheese: a strong, pungent cheese that can add a real punch of flavour.
• Raclette: a Swiss cheese with a creamy, gooey texture that is perfect for melting.
• Truffled Brie: a luxurious, indulgent option that pairs well with the meaty, savoury flavours of the sandwich.

The best bread for a Philly cheese sandwich

The bread you choose for your Philly cheese sandwich is critical to its overall taste and texture. The ideal bread should be fresh, white, and warm, with a lightly crispy exterior and a soft, airy, slightly chewy inside. It should also be sturdy enough to hold the robust filling without being too dense or heavy.

Hoagie Rolls

Hoagie rolls, also known as submarine or "hero" rolls, are a popular choice for Philly cheese sandwiches. They have a soft texture with a slight crispness to the exterior, providing a nice contrast in texture. Hoagie rolls are also sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart.

Italian Bread

Italian bread is another option for a Philly cheese sandwich. It has a similar texture to hoagie rolls, with a soft interior and a crispy crust. Italian bread is often used for sandwiches and can add a nice flavour to the overall sandwich.

French Baguette

A French baguette can be used for a Philly cheese sandwich, but it is important to note that it should not be too crispy. Look for a baguette that is soft and fresh, as this will provide a better texture and taste for the sandwich.

Amoroso's Bakery Rolls

If you want to get specific, the rolls used for Philly cheese sandwiches in Philadelphia often come from Amoroso's Bakery. These rolls are known for their perfect balance of crispness and softness, making them ideal for holding the sandwich filling without being too dense.

When choosing the bread for your Philly cheese sandwich, it is important to consider the texture and flavour it will add to the overall sandwich. The bread should complement the filling without overpowering it, and it should be sturdy enough to hold everything together.

What to serve with a Philly cheese sandwich

A Philly cheese sandwich is a hearty meal in itself, but if you're looking to serve it with some sides, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Classic Sides

French fries, coleslaw, potato salad, or potato chips are all classic choices that will complement the sandwich well. These sides are easily accessible and will round out your meal.

Creative Sides

If you're feeling more adventurous, try serving your Philly cheese sandwich with some cooked pasta. The sandwich fillings can be used as a tasty pasta sauce, or you could stuff them into bell peppers or portobello mushrooms for a low-carb option. You could also make Philly cheese sliders or serve the fillings in a bun with a twist, such as a garlic butter hoagie roll.

Additional Toppings

While not exactly a side, you can also bulk up your sandwich with additional toppings. Sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers are a popular choice, especially on the West Coast. You could also add some crunch with lettuce and tomato, or a drizzle of ketchup.

Drinks

And let's not forget about drinks! A Philly cheese sandwich pairs well with a variety of beverages. If you're looking for something refreshing, try a cold beer or a fizzy soda. For something a little stronger, a cocktail like an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan could be a perfect match.

Remember, the beauty of the Philly cheese sandwich is that you can make it your own, so feel free to get creative with your sides and toppings!

The history of the Philly cheese sandwich

The Philly Cheese sandwich, also known as the Philly Cheesesteak, is a sandwich made from thinly sliced pieces of beefsteak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll. It is a popular regional fast food that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the early 20th century. The exact story behind its creation is debated, but here is a compilation of the most popular accounts.

The story begins in the 1930s, in the Italian immigrant section of South Philadelphia, where brothers Harry and Pat Olivieri sold hot dogs and sandwiches from their hot dog stand. One day, tired of hot dogs, Pat suggested they try something new, so they bought some beef, sliced it up, and grilled it with onions. As they were about to dig in, a cab driver arrived for lunch, smelled the meat and onions, and asked for one of the sandwiches. The cab driver was so impressed that he reportedly said, "Hey, forget about those hot dogs; you should sell these!" And so, the Philly Cheesesteak was born.

However, it is important to note that the original sandwich did not include cheese. According to the Olivieri brothers, it was not until the 1940s that a longtime employee, Joe "Cocky Joe" Lorenzo, added cheese to the sandwich. Joe was tired of the usual sandwich and decided to add some melted provolone. This variation caught on quickly, and soon the Philly Cheesesteak became synonymous with melted cheese.

Over time, the Philly Cheesesteak evolved, and different cheeses were introduced, including Cheez Whiz, American cheese, and even cheese sauce. The sandwich also became a platform for experimentation, with various toppings and ingredients being added, such as sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions.

Today, the Philly Cheesesteak is a beloved staple in Philadelphia and beyond. It has become a symbol of the city's culinary culture, with many establishments offering their own unique takes on this classic sandwich. The beauty of the Philly Cheesesteak lies not only in its delicious combination of flavours but also in its ability to bring people together and create lasting memories. It is a true icon of Philadelphia's rich culinary history.

Whether you prefer your Philly Cheesesteak with provolone, Cheez Whiz, or another cheese altogether, the impact of this sandwich on American cuisine is undeniable. It has earned its place as one of the most iconic sandwiches in the United States, with a fascinating history that reflects the creativity and ingenuity of its creators.

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