Andy Montoya
Pat's King of Steaks in Philadelphia is known for its famous cheesesteaks. The story goes that in 1930, Pat Olivieri, tired of eating his own hotdogs, grilled a ribeye steak, chopped it up, and threw it into a roll with grilled onions. A cab driver saw this and asked to try the dish, and so the steak sandwich was born. The cheese was added a few years later, with some debate over who first added it. Pat's offers a variety of cheese options, including Cheez Whiz, Provolone, American, and Cooper Sharp. Cheez Whiz is reportedly the most popular option, with some describing it as the sine qua non of cheesesteak connoisseurs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Cheez Whiz, Provolone, American, Cooper Sharp |
| Oil type | Soybean oil |
| Toppings | Onions, sweet peppers, mushrooms, ketchup |
| Bread type | Hoagie rolls, Amoroso rolls |
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What You'll Learn
Pat's King of Steaks uses Cheez Whiz
Pat's King of Steaks, a Philadelphia-based restaurant, offers customers a variety of cheese options for their cheesesteaks. One of the most popular choices is Cheez Whiz, a processed cheese spread that was first added to the menu in the late 1950s.
Cheez Whiz is a well-loved feature of Pat's cheesesteaks, with its drippy, melty quality adding to the appeal of the sandwich. In fact, according to a 1986 New York Times article, Cheez Whiz is considered "the sine qua non of cheesesteak connoisseurs." Pat's King of Steaks allows customers to customize their orders, and when it comes to cheese, they can choose between Cheez Whiz, Provolone, American, or Cooper Sharp.
The history of Cheez Whiz at Pat's dates back to the late 1950s when it was introduced by Frank Olivieri Sr. at the South Philadelphia location. The original cheesesteak, created in the early 1930s, did not include cheese, and when cheese was first added in 1951, it was reportedly American cheese. However, Cheez Whiz quickly gained popularity and has since become a staple at Pat's King of Steaks.
The process of preparing a cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz involves melting the cheese in a double boiler or microwave and then pouring it over the meat and onions in the roll. This results in a delicious, messy sandwich that has become iconic in Philadelphia and beyond. Pat's King of Steaks has become synonymous with Cheez Whiz, and it continues to be a beloved choice for many customers.
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Pat's uses soybean oil
Soybean oil is often used in vegan cheese recipes. Soy-based cheeses are a vegan alternative to dairy cheese. Soy milk can be used to make soy cheese, yogurt, and cream cheese. Soybeans contain biologically active or metabolic proteins, such as enzymes, trypsin inhibitors, hemagglutinins, and cysteine proteases, which are very similar to papain. Soy protein is used in various foods, including cheese.
Soy-based cheese can be made by blending soaked soybeans with filtered water. This mixture is then strained to remove the soybean pulp, which can be used in recipes like Okara Hummus or Vegan Okara Brownies. The strained soy milk is then boiled to remove the beany smell and taste. After boiling, the heat is reduced, and the milk is allowed to simmer for 15-20 minutes. It is important to watch the milk closely during this process, as it can foam and expand. Once the milk has cooled, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Soy milk can also be made by cooking soybeans in an Instapot for 30 minutes after soaking them overnight. The excess cooking water is drained, and the soybeans are blended with water until smooth. A few drops of vanilla extract, almond extract, and maple syrup can be added for flavor. A starter or probiotic is then added, and the mixture is left to turn into yogurt.
Vegan cheese can be made using soy milk, tapioca starch (or potato starch and corn starch), olive oil, nutritional yeast, and salt. These ingredients are combined and warmed over medium heat, with continuous stirring, until the mixture becomes thick and gluey. Soy yogurt and lemon juice are then added, and the mixture is stirred vigorously until the cheese becomes smooth, creamy, and stringy. This vegan cheese can be used straight away, molded, or stored in the fridge.
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Pat's offers Provolone cheese as an alternative
Provolone is a versatile cheese that is popular for melting in sandwiches, on pizzas, and in baked dishes, or enjoyed on its own. It can also be used in grated form, in pasta or au gratin dishes. When it is semi-aged, it can be sliced and served with a roast. It can also be battered and eaten as an appetizer or added to salads.
Provolone is one of the most popular Italian cheeses in Europe and America, along with Mozzarella, Pecorino, and Parmesan. It originates from the Campania region near Vesuvius, where it is still produced in pear, sausage, or cone shapes. The most important provolone production region today is northwestern Italy, particularly the city of Cremona.
If you're planning to visit Pat's, make sure you know how to order your steak quickly to avoid holding up the line!
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Pat's offers American cheese as an option
Pat's King of Steaks in Philadelphia offers a variety of cheese options for their famous cheesesteaks. While Cheez Whiz is the most popular choice, outselling the next option by a significant margin, American cheese is also available and is a classic choice.
The story of how cheese was first added to the steak sandwich at Pat's dates back to the 1930s when Pat Olivieri ran a hotdog stand. According to Pat's son, Herb Olivieri, it was in 1951 that "Cocky Joe" Lorenza, a manager at the Ridge Avenue location, first added American cheese to the sandwich. However, there is some dispute within the Olivieri family, with other members claiming it was provolone.
Regardless of the exact timeline and type of cheese, it is clear that the addition of cheese to the steak sandwich was a pivotal moment in the creation of the now-iconic cheesesteak. Pat's King of Steaks has become a beloved Philadelphia institution, with tourists and locals alike flocking to try their famous sandwiches. The restaurant has even been featured on TV, introducing America and the world to this delicious Philadelphia specialty.
While Cheez Whiz may be the crowd favourite at Pat's, American cheese holds a special place in the history of the cheesesteak. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of this classic combination that Pat's continues to offer American cheese as an option, allowing customers to enjoy a taste of history with every bite.
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Pat's offers Cooper Sharp cheese as a newer option
Pat's King of Steaks has been serving up delicious sandwiches since 1930. The Philadelphia institution offers a variety of cheese options to accompany its famous steaks, including the classic Cheez Whiz, Provolone, and American. In recent years, Pat's has also added Cooper Sharp cheese as a newer option.
Cooper Sharp is a pasteurized process American cheese that offers a unique twist on the traditional cheesesteak. It is made from aged cheddar and has a higher milkfat content, resulting in a sharper and creamier taste than ordinary American cheese. This cheese option has been gaining popularity, offering a slightly different flavour profile to the more commonly chosen Cheez Whiz.
The addition of Cooper Sharp to the menu showcases Pat's commitment to innovation and providing customers with a range of choices. It also demonstrates their willingness to adapt and evolve, ensuring they stay relevant in the competitive world of cheesesteaks. Pat's understands the importance of tradition, but also recognises that offering new options can enhance the dining experience and cater to diverse tastes.
Cooper Sharp's creaminess pairs exceptionally well with the savoury notes of the steak and the soft texture of the hoagie roll. Its sharpness adds a distinctive tang to the sandwich, creating a flavour profile that is both familiar and intriguing. This cheese option elevates the classic cheesesteak, providing a slightly more sophisticated take on the iconic dish.
By offering Cooper Sharp, Pat's not only expands its menu but also contributes to the ongoing evolution of the cheesesteak. This sandwich, with its roots in Philadelphia's history, has become a symbol of the city's culinary culture, and Pat's continues to play a pivotal role in shaping its future. The addition of Cooper Sharp cheese is a testament to Pat's enduring legacy and its ability to adapt to the changing tastes and preferences of its customers.
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Frequently asked questions
Pat's uses Cheez Whiz, Provolone, American, or Cooper Sharp cheese.
Cheez Whiz is a processed cheese spread that was first marketed in 1952. It is the most popular cheese option at Pat's.
Cooper Sharp is a pasteurized process American cheese made from aged cheddar and has a higher milkfat content.
Pat's started using cheese in the early 1950s, with some sources claiming it was first added in 1951.
Pat's uses soybean oil, onions, sweet peppers, mushrooms, and ketchup.
