Andy Montoya
The Philly cheesesteak is a sandwich made from thinly sliced beefsteak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll. The most commonly used cheeses are American cheese, provolone, and Cheez Whiz. However, some people like to get creative with their Philly cheesesteaks, using Swiss cheese, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Cheese | Provolone, Cheez Whiz, American, Swiss, Mozzarella, Cooper Sharp |
| Consistency | Melty, gooey, creamy, sharp, dry |
| Texture | Gooeyness, stretchy, hard |
| Flavour | Mild, salty, tangy |
| Colour | White, orange |
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What You'll Learn
Provolone is the most common cheese
The origins of the Philly cheese sandwich can be traced back to the early 20th century, when a hot dog cart vendor in Philadelphia, Pat and Harry Olivieri, created the original version by combining frizzled beef and onions in a small loaf of bread. However, it was "Cocky Joe" Lorenza, a manager at the Ridge Avenue location, who first added provolone cheese to the sandwich.
While there are other cheese options available, such as Cheez Whiz and American cheese, provolone is considered the traditional choice. It has a distinct flavour that pairs well with the other ingredients in the sandwich. The sharp bite of provolone adds a nice contrast to the savoury pieces of thin steak and the sweetness of the bell peppers.
When making a Philly cheese sandwich with provolone, it is important to thinly slice the steak and cook it on a griddle. The provolone cheese is then melted over the steak, creating a gooey and delicious texture. The sandwich is typically served on an Amoroso roll, which is a long, soft, and slightly salted hoagie roll native to Philadelphia.
Some variations of the sandwich include adding sautéed onions, grilled mushrooms, ketchup, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper. However, the classic combination of steak, provolone, and bread is what makes the Philly cheese sandwich a favourite among many.
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Cheez Whiz is also popular
While provolone is the most common cheese to use on a Philly cheesesteak, Cheez Whiz is also a popular option. Cheez Whiz is a shelf-stable cheese product sold in jars. It is a completely creamy, almost nacho cheese-like sauce. It was first marketed in 1952 and has since become the most popular choice at Pat's, the restaurant owned by the Olivieri brothers, who are often credited with having invented the Philly cheesesteak.
Cheez Whiz is also the favourite at Geno's, another famous Philly cheesesteak restaurant. According to a 1986 New York Times article, it is "the sine qua non of cheesesteak connoisseurs". In a 1985 interview, Pat Olivieri's nephew Frank Olivieri said that he uses Cheez Whiz because it is fast. It is also a good option for those who want to recreate the Philly cheesesteak experience at home but can't find provolone in their local shops.
Some people like to use both provolone and Cheez Whiz on their Philly cheesesteaks. They melt the provolone over the steak as it cooks and then drizzle on some Cheez Whiz right before serving. This gives the sandwich the texture of Cheez Whiz and the flavour of provolone.
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American cheese is a tasty alternative
The Philly cheesesteak is a sandwich with a lot of variations, but one thing that remains consistent is the cheese. While the classic combination of provolone and Cheez Whiz is popular, American cheese is a tasty alternative.
American cheese is a delicious option for a Philly cheesesteak sandwich. It has the right amount of gooeyness and creaminess that blends perfectly with the steak and other ingredients. The mild flavour of American cheese also complements the sandwich without overwhelming the other flavours. It melts beautifully, creating a creamy consistency that brings the sandwich together.
American cheese is a great glue for the sandwich, holding all the ingredients together. It is also readily available and affordable, making it an excellent option for those who want a tasty Philly cheesesteak without breaking the bank. The cheese can be melted or placed in slices over the meat, allowing it to melt slightly and create the perfect texture.
When making a Philly cheesesteak at home, the choice of cheese is essential to getting that authentic taste and texture. While provolone and Cheez Whiz are classic choices, American cheese is a fantastic substitute that will satisfy any cheese lover. It adds a nice, mild flavour and creaminess to the sandwich, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.
For the ultimate Philly cheesesteak experience, combine thinly sliced steak, caramelized onions, peppers, and of course, American cheese, all stuffed into a toasted hoagie roll. This sandwich is a tasty treat and can be customised to your preference, making it a versatile and enjoyable meal. So, the next time you're craving a hearty sandwich, consider making a Philly cheesesteak with American cheese.
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Cooper Sharp is a newer option
The classic Philly cheesesteak is a sandwich made from thinly sliced steak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll. While the traditional cheesesteak uses either provolone or Cheez Whiz, there are several other types of cheese that can be used. American cheese is a popular alternative, and some people even use a blend of provolone and mozzarella.
Cooper Sharp is a great option for those looking to add a twist to their Philly cheesesteak. Its distinct sharp and creamy flavour can enhance the overall taste of the sandwich. The cheese is also easy to melt, making it a convenient choice for those preparing the sandwich at home.
For the ultimate Philly cheesesteak experience, it is important to consider not only the type of cheese but also the quality of the steak, the freshness of the roll, and any additional toppings. Some popular toppings include fried onions, cherry peppers, and ketchup.
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You can use a blend of cheeses
A Philly cheese sandwich is a fun and filling option for a meal. The classic Philly cheese sandwich consists of thinly shaved steak and gooey, melty cheese. While the traditional cheese options are provolone or Cheez Whiz, you can use a blend of cheeses to achieve the perfect taste and consistency.
Using a blend of cheeses allows you to customise your sandwich and cater to your personal preferences. For example, you can combine provolone with mozzarella or American cheese. Provolone has a sharper flavour, while American cheese adds the desired gooeyness to the sandwich. By blending these two cheeses, you get the best of both worlds.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can even create a three-cheese blend. Try combining provolone, mozzarella, and a sharp cheddar for a truly indulgent experience. The possibilities are endless when it comes to creating your own blend, so don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations.
When creating your blend, consider the flavour profiles and melting points of the cheeses. You want a combination that will complement each other and create a creamy, delicious whole. Play around with different ratios as well to find the perfect balance.
Remember, the beauty of making your own Philly cheese sandwich is that you can make it your own. So, go ahead and blend those cheeses to craft a sandwich that's uniquely yours!
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Frequently asked questions
The most common types of cheese used in a Philly cheese sandwich are provolone, Cheez Whiz, white American cheese, and Swiss cheese.
For a classic Philly cheese sandwich, it is recommended to use either provolone or Cheez Whiz.
For an authentic Philly cheese sandwich, it is recommended to use Cheez Whiz, as it is a staple in Philadelphia.
Some alternative types of cheese that can be used in a Philly cheese sandwich include cheddar, blue cheese, and raclette.
