Bushra Griffith
Shaved steak is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, but one of the most popular combinations is to top it with cheese. The classic Philly cheesesteak, a sandwich composed of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sautéed vegetables, is one such example. The choice of cheese can vary depending on personal preference, but some popular options include provolone, Swiss cheese, pepper jack, and sharp cheddar. To prepare the shaved steak, the beef is typically seasoned and seared, then piled on toasted bread and topped with cheese. The sandwich is then finished in the oven to melt the cheese and served immediately.
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Provolone cheese
Provolone is a versatile cheese that pairs perfectly with steak. It can be used in a variety of steak sandwiches, from the classic Philly cheesesteak to more creative variations. Some recipes suggest using caramelized onions, while others recommend adding barbecue sauce or pizza sauce to the sandwich. The type of bread used can also vary, with suggestions including French baguettes, hoagie rolls, and French rolls.
When making a shaved steak sandwich with provolone cheese, it is important to start with a nice cut of steak that has some marbled fat and is tender. Freezing the steak for about 10 minutes or until firm but not frozen solid can make it easier to slice thinly. The steak should be shaved as thin as possible, against the grain, to ensure it remains tender after cooking.
To caramelize the onions, heat olive oil and butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until they turn golden brown, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. This process can take anywhere from 25 to 40 minutes, depending on your stovetop and pan. Once the onions are caramelized, set them aside and cook the steaks on an outdoor or indoor grill to your desired temperature.
Finally, assemble the sandwich by scooping the steak mixture into the toasted bread of your choice. Top it with provolone slices and let the cheese melt. For added cheesiness, drizzle some warm Cheez Whiz over the provolone before serving.
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Swiss cheese
When preparing a shaved steak sandwich with Swiss cheese, it is best to slice the steak thinly. You can place the steak in the freezer for about 10 minutes to make it easier to slice. After slicing the steak, season it and pan-sear it in a skillet with some Worcestershire sauce and red pepper flakes. In a separate bowl, prepare a mixture of Ranch dressing, mayonnaise, and chipotles.
To assemble the sandwich, pile the steak onto toasted bread halves and lay Swiss cheese slices over the beef, overlapping them slightly. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes, if desired. Place the sandwiches in the oven and bake until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. Finally, slice the sandwiches into wedges and drizzle with creamy chipotle sauce before serving.
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Sharp cheddar
When making a shaved steak sandwich, it's important to consider the balance of textures. Sharp cheddar has a firm texture that can add a nice contrast to the tenderness of the steak and the softness of the bread. It also melts well, which is an important quality when you want to achieve the classic gooey, melty cheese texture in a shaved steak sandwich.
While some cheeses can get lost in a sandwich with many ingredients, sharp cheddar has a strong flavour that will shine through. This makes it a good choice for those who want their cheese to be a prominent part of the sandwich. Its sharpness can also help to balance out the richness of the other ingredients, providing a more well-rounded flavour profile.
Additionally, sharp cheddar is a versatile cheese that pairs well with a variety of other ingredients that are commonly used in shaved steak sandwiches, such as onions, peppers, and sauces like Worcestershire sauce or garlic butter. It can also be used in combination with other cheeses to create unique flavour profiles. For example, it can be mixed with pizza sauce, onion, green bell pepper, and provolone, or with a simple tomato sauce, onions, American cheese, and pickles.
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Preparing the steak
Shaved steak sandwiches are a delicious and indulgent meal, perfect for game day, tailgating, or a party. Preparing the steak is a simple process, but there are a few key steps to follow to ensure the best results.
Firstly, choose your cut of steak. Ribeye is the classic choice for Philly cheesesteaks, known for its assertive beefy flavour and marbling of fat, which keeps the steak tender as it cooks. Top round is another traditional option, and you can also use cube, round, or sirloin steak. If you are slicing the steak yourself, it is best to partially freeze the meat for about 10 minutes to make it easier to slice thinly. You want the steak to be firm but not frozen solid, and ensure you are using a sharp knife.
Next, season the steak. A simple option is to use salt and pepper, but you can also try Montreal steak seasoning, or a combination of salt, pepper, and balsamic for a unique twist. If you want to add extra flavour, you can add a teaspoon or two of prepared horseradish to the steak before cooking.
To cook the steak, preheat a pan over medium-high heat and add oil. You can use olive oil spray, or a drizzle of olive oil. Add the steak to the pan and cook until browned and slightly crispy. You can also add a generous shot of Worcestershire sauce to the pan, as well as red pepper flakes if you like a spicy kick. Be careful not to overcook the steak, as this can make it tough.
Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the pan and set it aside. If you are making a cheesesteak sandwich, now is the time to add your choice of vegetables to the pan, such as onions, peppers, and mushrooms. Sauté until softened, then return the steak to the pan and combine. Finally, add your cheese and allow it to melt before serving.
Shaved steak sandwiches are best served on toasted rolls, such as hoagie or French rolls. You can also try a hot dog bun for a lighter option. Enjoy your juicy, cheesy steak sandwich!
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Toasting the bread
To toast the bread, you can use a pan or oven. If using a pan, preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Place the rolls or buns in the pan and toast until golden. If using an oven, preheat it to the desired temperature, usually around 400 degrees F. Place the rolls or buns on a baking sheet and bake until toasted and golden.
It is also essential to choose the right type of bread for your sandwich. For a classic Philly cheesesteak, a hoagie roll or Amoroso roll is traditional, but you can also use French rolls, whole wheat rolls, or even a hot dog bun for a lighter version.
Once you have chosen your bread and toasted it to perfection, you can assemble your sandwich. Start by topping the bread with the shaved steak, followed by your choice of toppings, such as caramelized onions, sautéed peppers, mushrooms, or a sauce like Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce. Finally, add the cheese, and if desired, place the sandwiches under the broiler for a few seconds to make the cheese golden brown and bubbly.
Now you have a perfectly toasted bread base for your shaved steak sandwich, ready to be piled high with juicy steak and melted cheese!
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Frequently asked questions
The best cheese to top shaved steak is provolone.
Provolone is a hardy cheese with a strong flavour.
Other cheeses that can be used to top shaved steak include Swiss cheese, pepper jack, and sharp cheddar.
