Philly Cheese Steak: The Secret Seasoning Blend Revealed

A Philly cheesesteak is a sandwich made with thinly sliced steak and melted cheese served on a hoagie roll. The traditional cut of beef is ribeye, but other cuts such as top sirloin, skirt steak, or beef short ribs can also be used. The cheese is typically American, Cheez Whiz, or provolone, but other options such as Swiss or sharp cheddar cheese can also be used. The sandwich may also include sautéed onions, bell peppers, and/or mushrooms. The key to a good Philly cheesesteak is using high-quality beef, properly cooking the onions until they are caramelized, melting the cheese directly on top of the beef, and toasting the roll so that it can hold up to the meat and toppings without becoming soggy.

Salt and pepper

For the steak, salt and pepper are combined with other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. This mixture is then sprinkled over the steak and stirred to coat the meat evenly. The steak is then cooked to the desired doneness.

Finally, the bread can be lightly toasted in the oven and brushed with garlic mayo or spiced mayo before adding the steak and veggies. A slice of cheese is often added to the bread to create a barrier between the bread and the steak, preventing the bread from getting soggy.

So, while a variety of seasonings can be used to make a Philly cheesesteak, salt and pepper are the basic seasonings that bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.

Garlic powder

The amount of garlic powder used in a Philly cheesesteak can vary depending on personal preference. Some recipes call for just a pinch, while others suggest a more generous amount. It is important to taste the meat as you season it to ensure that the garlic flavour is not overwhelming.

In addition to garlic powder, other common seasonings used in Philly cheesesteak meat include salt, pepper, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, Italian seasoning, and dried herbs such as thyme, marjoram, and basil. These seasonings are typically mixed together and sprinkled over the meat before cooking.

When seasoning Philly cheesesteak meat, it is also important to consider the other ingredients in the sandwich. The meat is typically served with cheese, onions, and bell peppers, so the seasoning should complement these flavours. A well-seasoned Philly cheesesteak should have a balance of flavours that come together to create a delicious sandwich.

Cayenne pepper

Philly cheesesteaks are a classic American sandwich, with thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and a long crusty roll as the essential components. But what takes this sandwich to the next level is the seasoning, and one spice that deserves a spotlight is cayenne pepper. Cayenne pepper brings a subtle heat and depth of flavour to the cheesesteak, enhancing the overall taste experience. Here's why cayenne pepper is a great choice for your Philly cheesesteak.

The Spice of Choice: Cayenne's Heat and Flavour

Enhancing the Cheesesteak Experience

When it comes to seasoning your Philly cheesesteak, cayenne pepper is an excellent choice as it complements the other ingredients perfectly. The moderate heat of cayenne pepper adds a subtle spiciness to the sandwich without overwhelming the other flavours. It enhances the taste of the beef, especially when paired with other spices like garlic powder and black pepper. Cayenne pepper also has a slightly smoky flavour that blends beautifully with the melted cheese, creating a complex and satisfying taste sensation.

Tips for Using Cayenne Pepper

When using cayenne pepper in your Philly cheesesteak, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Start with a small amount: A little cayenne pepper goes a long way. Start with a pinch and adjust to your taste preferences. You can always add more, but it's difficult to tone down the heat if you add too much.
• Combine with other spices: Cayenne pepper pairs well with other spices commonly used in cheesesteaks, such as garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect blend.
• Don't overcook: Cayenne pepper can lose some of its flavour and heat when exposed to high temperatures for extended periods. Add it towards the end of cooking to retain its potency.
• Fresh vs. powdered: You can use either fresh cayenne peppers, which you would need to chop finely, or cayenne pepper powder. The powder is more convenient and easier to incorporate into your seasoning blend.

A Versatile Spice

In conclusion, cayenne pepper is an excellent choice for seasoning your Philly cheesesteak. It adds a subtle heat and depth of flavour that enhances the overall taste experience. When used in combination with other spices and added at the right time during cooking, it can take your cheesesteak to the next level. So, the next time you're craving a Philly cheesesteak, don't forget to sprinkle on some cayenne pepper for that extra kick!

Basil

When selecting basil to use in seasoning, it is best to choose fresh basil as it has a stronger flavour compared to dried basil. Fresh basil should have vibrant green leaves and stems, and it is best to avoid any wilted or yellow leaves. To prepare fresh basil for use in seasoning, the leaves can be removed from the stem and chopped or torn into small pieces. Basil is a versatile herb that can be added to dishes at any stage of the cooking process, as its flavour holds up well.

The amount of basil used in the seasoning blend for Philly cheesesteak can be adjusted to suit personal preference. A good starting point is to use equal amounts of basil and the other herbs and spices in the blend. The blend can then be mixed and stored in an airtight container for future use. When seasoning the steak, a generous amount of the blend can be sprinkled over the meat and stirred to ensure an even coating.

In addition to basil, other herbs and spices can be added to the blend to enhance the flavour of the Philly cheesesteak. Some options include red pepper flakes for a spicier dish, or dried oregano for a more earthy flavour. Experimenting with different combinations of herbs and spices can lead to a unique and personalised seasoning blend.

Cheese choice

The Philly Cheesesteak is a sandwich with a rich history and a dedicated following. The choice of cheese is a highly debated topic, with strong opinions on both sides. The two most common options are Provolone and Cheez Whiz, with some traditional cheesesteak places also offering American cheese.

Provolone

Provolone is often available as an alternative to Cheez Whiz and is considered by some to be the more authentic option. It is a legit Italian cheese and most likely the option used by those who originated this sandwich. It has a higher melting point than Cheez Whiz and American cheese, so it won't get as gooey, but it adds a nice savoury flavour to the sandwich.

Cheez Whiz

Cheez Whiz is a processed cheese sauce that is loved by many for its creamy texture and un-artisan flavour. It is the perfect choice for those who want a messy, gooey cheesesteak sandwich. Cheez Whiz is also a good option for those who want a vegetarian sandwich, as it does not contain any meat products.

American Cheese

American cheese is a popular choice for those who want a classic, nostalgic flavour. It has a low melting point, so it gets nice and gooey, and it has more moisture and flavour than Provolone. It is also widely available and affordable, making it a convenient choice. However, it is highly processed, so some people may prefer to avoid it.

Other Cheese Options

Some people like to experiment with different types of cheese on their Philly Cheesesteak sandwiches. Options include:

• Cheddar: A natural step up from processed American cheese, cheddar adds a nice sharp flavour to the sandwich.
• Raclette: A natural melter with a funky, washed rind, raclette is a great choice for those who want a cheese with some personality.
• Blue Cheese: The sting of blue cheese pairs perfectly with the rich umami of beef, making it a surprisingly good choice for a cheesesteak sandwich.
• Treehug: A seasonal, spruce-bark wrapped cheese with a fondue-like interior, Treehug is a unique and indulgent choice for a Philly Cheesesteak.
• Truffled Brie: For a truly lavish cheesesteak experience, try a triple crème, truffled Delice de Bourgogne. It pairs beautifully with the meaty flavours and onions.

Frequently asked questions