How Do You Eat a Philly Cheesesteak?
Mastering the Art of Enjoying This Iconic Sandwich
Eating a Philly cheese (how long does cheese last?)steak is an experience steeped in Philadelphia tradition. This iconic sandwich, a beloved staple of the city, is more than just a quick meal—it's a taste of local culture. It comprises thinly sliced beef, which is traditionally chip steak, cooked on a griddle and layered onto a sliced roll. The choice of cheese (What wine goes well with cheese?), often American, provolone, or Cheez Whiz, melts into the hot meat, and the option to have it "wit" or "witout" onions (What wine goes well with onions?) allows for personal customization. Whether purchased from famed vendors like Pat’s, Geno’s, Jim’s, or Tony Luke’s, each cheesesteak is a testament to Philly’s rich culinary heritage.
The ritual of eating a Philly cheesesteak has its own set of unspoken rules that locals and visitors alike oftentimes observe. Rather than sitting at a table, many believe that enjoying this sandwich al fresco is the way to go. The process typically involves cutting the cheesesteak in half to make it more manageable, as suggested by cheesesteak experts.
Embracing the informal and hearty nature of this local favorite, devouring a Philly cheesesteak isn't meant to be a prim and proper affair. Forks and knives are forsaken in favor of hands, indicative of its working-class roots. It's this no-frills approach to consumption that aligns perfectly with the sandwich’s straightforward and filling character, offering a truly authentic Philadelphia experience.
History of the Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly cheesesteak is more than just a sandwich; it is a culinary staple deeply entwined with the heritage of Philadelphia, also known as the City of Brotherly Love. Pat Olivieri, a South Philadelphia hot dog vendor, is often credited with inventing the cheesesteak in the 1930s. As the story goes, Olivieri threw some beef on his grill to make a sandwich for himself. A passing taxi driver caught the enticing aroma and requested one as well, and the rest is history.
Olivieri soon opened Pat's King of Steaks at the original location at 9th Street and Passyunk Avenue, where Pat's remains a landmark in the city. Initially selling hot dogs, the pivot to cheesesteaks marked the birth of a legendary culinary icon in Philadelphia. The simple yet delightful combination of thinly sliced steak and melted cheese on a long roll became an instant hit.
Here is a brief outline of the cheesesteak's evolution:
1930s: Invented by Pat Olivieri in South Philadelphia.
Shop Expansion: The popularity of the cheesesteak leads to the establishment of Pat's King of Steaks.
Cheese Choices: Originally, the type of cheese used was not standardized, but choices now include provolone, American, and Cheez Whiz.
The Philly cheesesteak's notoriety has crossed borders and has become synonymous with the city's identity, showcasing Philadelphia's rich food culture with each bite.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Crafting the quintessential Philly cheesesteak begins with selecting quality components. Each ingredient holds a critical role, determining the sandwich's flavor and authenticity.
Selecting the Meat
The centerpiece of a cheesesteak is, undoubtedly, the steak itself. For the best taste and texture, one should seek out ribeye steak (What wine goes well with ribeye steak?). Its marbling and tenderness translate into a melty, flavorful bite that's second to none. When sourcing the ribeye, opting for a reputable butcher can make all the difference. The beef should be thinly sliced—almost shaved—to ensure it cooks quickly and evenly on the griddle.
Types of Cheese
Cheese is what brings the Philly cheesesteak together. There are three primary options to consider: provolone cheese, white American cheese, and Cheez Whiz. Each presents a distinct taste and texture:
Provolone: Offers a mild, smoky flavor.
American Cheese: Melts smoothly for that classic, velvety cheesesteak texture.
Cheez Whiz: Adds a creamy, tangy kick, often considered the most authentic choice for those seeking the genuine Philly experience.
The Bread Factor
The vessel carrying all the other elements is just as crucial. Traditional Philly cheesesteaks are served on hoagie rolls. The ideal roll should have some crust on the outside but remain soft inside, capable of holding the juicy contents without falling apart. Many swear by the Amoroso's brand—iconic in Philadelphia—known for its ability to perfectly cradle the steak and cheese. When preparing the bread (how long does bread last?), lightly toasting the soft hoagie roll can add a subtle crunch and warmth to the sandwich.
Preparation Techniques
A proper Philly cheesesteak offers a harmony of flavors and textures, achieved through precise preparation techniques. It begins with high-quality ingredients, each component demanding attentive handling to craft the quintessential sandwich experience.
Slicing the Meat
For the ideal texture, sirloin or ribeye is often chosen for its flavor and tenderness. The chef freezes the meat slightly, making it easier to cut thinly against the grain. This ensures each bite is tender. Precise thin slicing is critical and best achieved with a meat slicer, which maintains uniformity and enhances the sandwich's overall taste profile.
Cooking the Steak
Cooking must be quick to retain the flavor and tenderness of the meat. A griddle, flattop, or cast-iron skillet is typically utilized, providing consistent heat across the meat's surface. The key is to cook the steak until just done, avoiding overcooking to maintain moisture and flavor. The steak should be turned frequently, using a technique that allows each piece to brown without becoming tough or chewy.
Assembling the Sandwich
An authentic Philly cheesesteak relies on a sliced roll, often a sub-style with a slightly crusty exterior and a soft inside. The bread must be sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart. The steak is promptly transferred onto the bread, and if a sub sandwich experience is desired, the halves are left connected for easy filling.
Melting the Cheese
As for cheese, slices of provolone, American, or Cheez Whiz are traditionally used. The melting process is gentle—often the heat from the cooked meat and onions is sufficient to melt cheese effectively. Once laid atop the hot steak, the cheese slices integrate with the meat, creating a seamless meld of melted cheese and savory beef, crowning the sandwich with gooey goodness.
Toppings and Condiments
A Philly cheesesteak isn't complete without the right toppings and condiments. They are essential for adding flavor, texture, and moisture to this iconic sandwich.
Traditional Vegetables
The vegetables commonly added to a Philly cheesesteak include:
Onions: Typically sautéed until golden brown or caramelized to bring out a sweet and rich flavor.
Peppers: Both green and bell peppers are often sautéed alongside onions to add a slight bitterness and crunch.
Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms provide a meaty texture and an earthy flavor to complement the steak.
Sauce and Extras
Beyond vegetables, a variety of sauces and extras can enhance a Philly cheesesteak:
Garlic Butter: Applied to the bun for added richness.
Mayonnaise: A creamy condiment that adds a tangy and smooth texture.
Ketchup and Mustard: Classic and simple, these can be drizzled on top for additional flavor.
Pizza Sauce: For a twist on the classic, this adds a tomato-based savory note.
Mayo: Otherwise known as mayonnaise, it's another creamy option for those who prefer a richer sandwich.
The above toppings and condiments can be adjusted according to personal preference to create a customized Philly cheesesteak experience.
Serving and Eating a Cheesesteak
Serving a cheesesteak begins with the cook preparing the sandwich with precision. A traditional Philly cheesesteak consists of a fresh, crusty roll filled with thinly sliced, well-cooked beef. Peppers and fried onions are common toppings, but their inclusion varies according to individual preference. The cook needs to ensure the meat is adequately browned and juicy before layering it onto the bread.
Cheese is an essential component, typically either American, provolone, or Cheez Whiz, which should be melted over the hot meat to achieve a gooey texture. Once assembled, the cheesesteak sandwich can be sliced in half to make it more manageable to eat.
When it comes to eating a cheesesteak, the experience is often enjoyed on-the-go. To fully appreciate a Philly cheese steak, one should consume it fresh and hot from the kitchen:
Step 1: Grasp the sandwich firmly; its hearty construction often requires both hands.
Step 2: Lean slightly forward to avoid any fillings falling onto clothes.
Step 3: Take bites from the end, working towards the middle, ensuring an even distribution of steak, cheese, and toppings with each bite.
The informality of eating a cheesesteak is part of its charm; there’s no need for cutlery or an elaborate setting. Many aficionados argue that the best Philly cheesesteaks are enjoyed outdoors, allowing the ambiance of the city to complement the flavors of the sandwich.
Remember, eating a cheesesteak is meant to be a delightfully messy experience. While some might opt for a napkin to catch any stray cheese or onions, tradition suggests embracing the mess as part of the authentic enjoyment.
