Cheesesteak
A cheesesteak is a Philadelphia staple, composed of thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and a soft hoagie roll of your choice. It is often served with a variety of toppings, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions, which both add texture and enhance the flavor of the sandwich.
Although the traditional cheesesteaks are made with beef, many variations of this classic sandwich can be found today; some chefs opt to use chicken or even vegetarian substitutes in place of the steak. The type of cheese often used ranges from American to provolone to even cheddar, but the most popular option is still the ubiquitous Cheez Whiz.
When it comes to preparing the dish, there are various methods to choose from. Some prefer to fry the steak slices in a pan with oil, while others will grill the pieces before adding them to the roll. No matter the method, one thing remains constant: a hot, sizzling skillet is essential for creating a truly scrumptious cheesesteak.
For those looking for a healthier option, there are ways to lighten up the dish. Many restaurants now offer grilled cheesesteaks, where the steak and vegetables are cooked on a flat surface with no additional fat. For a zestier flavor, some might opt to throw some jalapenos into the mix, while others might opt for a lighter fare by using turkey instead of beef.
No matter how you choose to prepare it, the cheesesteak is an iconic culinary masterpiece. Its unique flavor profile and wide variety of accompaniments make it a truly decadent treat. As with any dish, experimenting with different ingredients and toppings is encouraged to find the perfect combination for your palate. So, if you're feeling adventurous, give a cheesesteak a try—you won't regret it!
Cheesesteak recipes
Amazing Cheesesteak recipes sourced from the web.
The origin of Cheesesteak
In the vibrant city of Philadelphia, the origins of the much beloved cheesesteak have been debated for generations. But one thing is certain - the iconic sandwich has an illustrious history.
The inception of the cheesesteak dates back to 1930, when brothers Pat and Harry Olivieri are rumoured to have created the first version of the dish. According to local legend, the two restaurateurs were cooking up chopped steak sandwiches in the open air at their South 9th Street hot dog stand, when a taxi driver passing by exclaimed “Hey Pat, why don’t you put some cheese on that?”. The rest, as they say, is history.
Since then, the cheesesteak has gone on to become a firm favourite of both locals and tourists alike. It's simple but flavourful combination of steak, melted cheese, and crispy fried onions forms the delectable centrepiece to this classic dish. However, its iconic status has caused a schism among aficionados, who often debate the 'correct' way to prepare the classic recipe.
Some would argue that the great taste of a true Philly cheesesteak is derived from the beef. Thinly sliced rib-eye steak is typically used, though many enthusiasts opt for sirloin or chuck steak for their sandwiches. Choosing the right cheese is also paramount; restaurants in the city of Brotherly Love tend to use a combination of processed American and provolone for their creations.
But for some, it's not just about the ingredients - it's about how the dish is assembled. The most popular method entails ‘the dance’, where the meat, cheese, and onions are melded together on the flat griddle. This ensues a virtual synchronization of flavours, ensuring that the finished product is the epitome of culinary perfection.
So, while arguments may rage over the 'right' way to make a cheesesteak, we can all agree that the sandwich is a treasured part of Philadelphia's illustrious food culture - one that will endure for generations to come.
Types of Cheesesteak
In Philadelphia, a home of legendary American dishes, the iconic cheesesteak reigns king. Famed for its decadent combination of steak, cheese, and bread, cheesesteaks have become an integral part of the city’s culture. But did you know there are actually several unique types of cheesesteak? Let’s explore them!
The classic version, often referred to as ‘the Philly Cheesesteak’ is a staple on menus throughout the city. It’s served with thinly-sliced ribeye steak and melted cheese atop a long roll. Condiments such as onions and peppers can be added at request, although purists will tell you that the traditional ingredients are all you need.
Then, there’s the ‘Italian Cheesesteak’. Faithful to its name, this tasty variant includes provolone cheese, sharp Italian dressing and condiments like giardiniera or roasted red peppers. Traditionally, it substitutes the steak with either chicken or pork.
Next up is the ‘Whiz Wit’. This variation is topped with Cheez Whiz and sautéed onions, creating a savory flavor explosion. If you’re looking for something different, try the ‘Pizza Steak’. As suggested by its name, this type swaps out the typical steak topping for savory marinara sauce and melted mozzarella instead.
If you’re feeling adventurous, order a ‘Chicken Cheesesteak’. This twist of the classic dish opts for grilled chicken instead of beef and some restaurants include additional ingredients like mushrooms, hot sauces, and pickles.
Finally, there’s the increasingly popular ‘Veggie Cheesesteak’. Ideal for those following plant-based diets, it typically includes veggies such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions. For extra flavor, ask the chef to smother it in cheese sauce.
So, there you have it – five unique types of cheesesteak. Whether you’re a habitual carnivore or prefer to stick to veganism, there’s certainly no shortage of possibilities. Bon appetit!