Philly Cheese Steak: Melty, Gooey Cheese Perfection

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 prefer to use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Cooper Sharp, or a blend of different cheeses. The choice of cheese can depend on personal preference, availability, and the desired texture and flavour of the sandwich.

Provolone

However, provolone does not melt as well as Cheez Whiz, and some people find that it dries out the sandwich. One way to avoid this is to combine provolone with another cheese, such as mozzarella or American cheese. This gives you the flavour of the provolone with the gooey, melty texture of the other cheese.

When making a Philly cheesesteak with provolone, it is important to slice the cheese thinly so that it melts properly. You can also try combining methods of melting the cheese to get the best of both worlds. For example, you can leave the provolone to melt on top of the steak, which will give you distinct layers of meat and cheese. Or, you can flip the steak and cheese so that the provolone melts directly on the griddle, which will give you a more evenly distributed melt.

Cheez Whiz

The use of Cheez Whiz on Philly cheesesteaks remains a topic of debate. Some people consider it a classic and essential component, while others believe it is not necessary or even prefer other types of cheese. Ultimately, the choice of cheese on a Philly cheesesteak is a matter of personal preference, and different variations and combinations of cheese can be used to suit individual tastes.

American

When making a Philly cheesesteak with American cheese, it is important to use enough cheese to ensure the sandwich is not dry. Three to four slices of cheese per sandwich are recommended, with some overlapping to promote melting. To achieve the desired creaminess, some choose to melt the American cheese before adding it to the sandwich. This can be done by placing the cheese slices over the meat and allowing them to melt slightly under the heat. Others opt to drizzle melted cheese over the steak.

The type of bread used for a Philly cheesesteak is also crucial. The classic choice is an Amoroso roll, which is long, soft, and slightly salted. However, these rolls can be challenging to find outside of Philadelphia. A suitable substitute is a hoagie roll, which can be used to create an equally delicious sandwich.

To prepare the steak for a Philly cheesesteak, it is important to use a nice cut of meat with some marbled fat. Ribeye and top round are traditional choices, but other cuts such as sirloin or flank steak can also be used. Freezing the steak for about an hour before slicing it thinly against the grain will help achieve the desired thinness.

In addition to the steak and cheese, a Philly cheesesteak typically includes sautéed onions and bell peppers. These vegetables should be cooked separately until softened and slightly caramelized before being combined with the steak and cheese. Common additions and variations include mushrooms, ketchup, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper.

Mozzarella

While not a traditional choice, mozzarella can be a delicious alternative for those who want to try something different or put their own spin on the classic sandwich.

Sharp cheddar

When it comes to the cheese that goes on a Philly cheesesteak, there are a few options to consider, and each has its own passionate supporters. While the traditional choices are Cheez Whiz and provolone, some people prefer to use other varieties of cheese, such as sharp cheddar.

When creating a Philly cheesesteak with sharp cheddar, it is important to consider the balance of flavours and textures. The sharp cheddar will provide a bold, tangy flavour, so pairing it with other ingredients that complement this taste is essential. Sautéed onions and peppers, for example, can add a touch of sweetness to offset the sharpness of the cheese.

Additionally, the texture of sharp cheddar needs to be taken into account. Since it is a harder cheese, it may not melt as easily as some other varieties. To ensure the cheese melts properly and creates that signature gooey, creamy texture that a Philly cheesesteak is known for, it is recommended to shred or slice the cheese thinly. This increases the surface area, allowing the cheese to melt more easily and creating a smoother, creamier consistency.

For those who prefer a more robust flavour and are looking for a cheese that will really stand up to the other ingredients in a Philly cheesesteak, sharp cheddar is an excellent choice. Its sharp, tangy flavour and firmer texture can add a new dimension to this classic sandwich. However, it is important to remember that the key to a great Philly cheesesteak is finding the right balance of flavours and textures, so be sure to choose the other ingredients carefully to create a harmonious combination.

Frequently asked questions