Kamil Perry
The Philly Cheesesteak is a sandwich that originated in Philadelphia in the early 20th century. It traditionally consists of thinly sliced steak, caramelised onions, and cheese, served in a roll. The classic choice of cheese is mild provolone, but Cheez Whiz and American cheese are also popular.
What You'll Learn
Provolone is the most popular cheese for Philly Cheesesteaks
Provolone: The Most Popular Cheese for Philly Cheesteaks
Philly Cheesesteaks are a beloved sandwich, with a history dating back to the early 20th century. The classic combination of thinly sliced steak, caramelized onions, and cheese has made it a favourite for many. While there are different ways to make this sandwich, one thing is clear: the most popular cheese for Philly Cheesteaks is provolone.
Provolone is a mild, sharp-tasting cheese that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients in a Philly Cheesesteak. Its popularity is evident in the many recipes that call for it, as well as the feedback from those who have tried it. Provolone is so well-loved that some consider it the only acceptable cheese for this sandwich.
The key to a great Philly Cheesesteak is getting super thin slices of beef, and the same goes for the cheese. Thinly sliced provolone ensures that it melts easily and combines beautifully with the beef and veggies. This creates a gooey, delicious texture that is simply irresistible.
When making a Philly Cheesesteak, it's important to use a nice, tender cut of steak with some marbled fat. Ribeye is a popular choice, but other options include flank steak or sirloin. As for the bread, a classic Philly Cheesesteak is served on an Amoroso roll, but a hoagie roll is a great substitute and just as delicious.
While provolone is the most popular cheese, some people like to get creative and use other varieties. Cheez Whiz, a shelf-stable cheese product, is a common alternative, and some even like to use a combination of provolone and Cheez Whiz. American cheese is another option that is quite popular.
So, the next time you're craving a Philly Cheesesteak, remember that provolone is the cheese of choice for many. But feel free to experiment and find your own favourite!
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Cheez Whiz is also a classic choice
Cheez Whiz: A Classic Choice for Philly Cheesesteaks
When it comes to choosing the right cheese for your Philly cheesesteak, Cheez Whiz is a classic and iconic option. While some may have strong opinions about the "correct" ingredients for this beloved sandwich, the reality is that there is no single, definitive way to make it. Cheez Whiz, a shelf-stable cheese product sold in jars, has earned its place in the cheesesteak hall of fame. Here's why.
The History of Cheez Whiz in Philly Cheesesteaks
The cheesesteak sandwich has a long history in Philadelphia, with the original creation often credited to Pat & Harry Olivieri, a hot dog cart vendor in the early 20th century. Over the years, the sandwich has evolved, and so have the ingredients. Cheez Whiz became a popular choice for cheesesteaks, offering a unique texture and flavour that many have come to love.
The Appeal of Cheez Whiz
Cheez Whiz has a distinct flavour and texture that sets it apart from other cheeses. It's creamy, almost like nacho cheese, and its smooth consistency makes it perfect for drizzling over the sandwich. Cheez Whiz also has a mild taste that doesn't overpower the other ingredients in a cheesesteak. It's a convenient option that is readily available and easy to use, making it a practical choice for many.
Creating the Perfect Cheez Whiz Cheesesteak
When crafting your Cheez Whiz cheesesteak, it's essential to focus on the details. Start by thinly slicing your steak—ribeye or top round are classic choices—and cooking it on a griddle or in a skillet. Separately cook your onions and peppers until they're soft and caramelized. Combine the steak, onions, and peppers, then finish it off with a generous drizzle of Cheez Whiz. Don't forget to serve it on a hoagie roll, toasted to perfection.
Cheez Whiz: A Matter of Preference
While Cheez Whiz has its fans, it's not for everyone. Some prefer the sharper bite of provolone or the creaminess of American cheese. Ultimately, the beauty of the Philly cheesesteak is its versatility. You can make it your own, experimenting with different cheeses, vegetables, and rolls to find your perfect combination. So, whether you're a Cheez Whiz traditionalist or a creative culinary explorer, embrace the freedom to craft your ideal cheesesteak experience.
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American cheese is another option
American Cheese: Another Option for Your Philly Cheesesteak
When it comes to crafting the perfect Philly cheesesteak, there are a few key components to consider: the type of steak, the vegetables, the bread, and of course, the cheese. While the classic combination of ribeye steak, caramelized onions, and provolone cheese sandwiched between a toasted hoagie roll is hard to beat, some variations are worth exploring, including the use of American cheese.
American cheese, with its creamy texture and mild flavour, can be a delightful alternative to the traditional provolone. It melts beautifully, creating a gooey and decadent texture that pairs perfectly with the savoury steak and onions. If you're looking for a slightly different taste and mouthfeel, American cheese is a great option.
One of the advantages of American cheese is its versatility. It can be used as a standalone cheese or in combination with other cheeses to create unique flavour profiles. Some enthusiasts even prefer to combine American cheese with Cheez Whiz, a shelf-stable cheese product, to achieve the perfect balance of texture and taste. This combination provides the creaminess of American cheese with the distinct, almost nacho-like flavour of Cheez Whiz.
When selecting American cheese for your Philly cheesesteak, opt for a good-quality variety. While it may not be the traditional choice, using high-quality ingredients will elevate your sandwich. Look for a cheese with a smooth, even texture and a mild, pleasant flavour that complements the other components of your cheesesteak.
Preparing the steak for your Philly cheesesteak is also crucial. To achieve the ideal texture, freeze the steak for around 30 minutes before slicing it as thinly as possible. This technique ensures that the steak cooks quickly and evenly, maintaining its tenderness. Additionally, don't forget to season the steak generously with salt and pepper to enhance its flavour.
In conclusion, while provolone is the classic choice for a Philly cheesesteak, American cheese is a delicious alternative that offers a slightly different sensory experience. Its creamy texture and mild flavour can enhance the overall taste and mouthfeel of the sandwich. So, the next time you're crafting this iconic dish, don't be afraid to experiment with American cheese—you may discover a new favourite combination!
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White American cheese is a popular choice
When making a Philly Cheesesteak, it's important to use a nice, tender cut of steak with some marbled fat. Ribeye is a popular choice, but it can be expensive. Other options include flank steak, top round, or sirloin. To ensure a tender sandwich, the steak should be sliced as thinly as possible. Freezing the steak for about 30 minutes before slicing can make this process easier.
The type of bread used is also key to a delicious Philly Cheesesteak. A classic choice is an Amoroso roll, but these can be hard to find outside of Philadelphia. A hoagie roll is a good substitute, and toasting it with garlic butter can add extra flavour.
When assembling the sandwich, it's essential to cook the onions and peppers separately from the steak, as they require a longer cooking time. Combine everything at the end, adding the cheese so it melts into the other ingredients.
So, while there are many variations and preferences when it comes to making a Philly Cheesesteak, using White American cheese is a popular and classic choice that will satisfy any crowd.
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Velveeta-like cheese is used in some restaurants
While the classic Philly cheesesteak is made with provolone or Cheez Whiz, some restaurants in Philadelphia use a Velveeta-like cheese. This cheese sauce is a popular choice for those who want a "spin on the ol' classic".
Velveeta cheese sauce is readily available pre-made, or you can make your own by buying a small block of Velveeta and adding milk. The cheese is then added to a mixture of steak, bell peppers, onions, and seasoning. The mixture is served on a roll or loaf of bread, such as French bread or a hoagie roll.
Velveeta-like cheese is also used in some packaged Philly cheesesteak kits, which can be purchased online. These kits include pasta, cheese sauce, and seasonings, and are designed to be a quick and easy meal option.
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Frequently asked questions
Philly Cheesesteak is a sandwich made with thinly sliced steak, onions, and cheese. The classic version uses ribeye steak and provolone cheese, but other popular options include American cheese and Cheez Whiz.
The most popular cheese for Philly Cheesesteak is mild provolone. However, some people prefer American cheese or Cheez Whiz, a shelf-stable cheese product sold in jars.
While provolone, American cheese, and Cheez Whiz are the most common choices, there is no reason you cannot experiment with other types of cheese. Some people use Swiss or mozzarella cheese, or a combination of the "acceptable" cheeses.
The original Philly Cheesesteak was created in the early 20th century by a hot dog cart vendor named Pat Olivieri. Almost 100 years later, the Olivieri family still runs the restaurant, Pat's King of Steaks, in Philadelphia.
When making Philly Cheesesteak at home, it is important to use thinly sliced beef. You can ask your butcher to shave or slice it for you, or freeze the steak for 10-30 minutes before slicing it yourself. Sautéing the onions and peppers separately before combining them with the steak is also key to a delicious sandwich.
