Philly cheesesteak is an iconic sandwich that has stood the test of time. Known for its delicious combination of thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and a soft hoagie roll, the Philly cheesesteak is a beloved dish in American cuisine. But what is the secret ingredient that takes this sandwich from good to great? In this article, we’ll uncover the secret ingredient in Philly cheesesteak, as well as give you some helpful tips on how to make your own at home.
Understanding the Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly cheesesteak is composed of a few key elements, each contributing to its signature flavor. These elements include:
- Steak: Traditionally, ribeye or chuck steak is used, thinly sliced for a tender texture.
- Cheese: Provolone, American cheese, or Cheez Whiz—a creamy cheese sauce—are commonly used.
- Bread: A soft hoagie roll that is firm enough to hold all of the fillings without becoming soggy.
While these are the basic components, there’s one important factor that truly makes a Philly cheesesteak stand out: the technique and attention to detail in how each ingredient is combined. To truly master the Philly cheesesteak, you need to understand how to prepare each element properly.
For more on how to make the perfect Philly cheesesteak at home, check out Allrecipes’ guide for some expert tips.
The Search for the Secret Ingredient
The search for the secret ingredient in Philly cheesesteak has sparked numerous debates. Some people argue that it’s the seasoning, while others believe it’s the quality of the steak or the type of cheese used. However, many agree that the most important factor in making a great Philly cheesesteak is how it’s cooked.
The steak, for instance, is typically cooked on a hot griddle, which allows it to sear quickly and retain its juiciness. Some chefs swear by adding a special marinade to the steak to infuse more flavor, while others focus on achieving the right balance of salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
The key to getting the perfect melt on the cheese is another point of debate. Provolone and American cheese both melt beautifully, but many people argue that Cheez Whiz brings a unique creaminess and nostalgia that is hard to beat. To explore the debate over Cheez Whiz versus other cheeses, visit Mashed’s guide.
The Key Ingredient: The Steak
When it comes to making an authentic Philly cheesesteak, the steak is the heart of the sandwich. Traditionally, chefs use ribeye, which is known for its marbled fat that contributes to tenderness and flavor. Chuck can also be used, though it’s a leaner cut that may require more seasoning or marinating to achieve the same juiciness.
The secret to great steak in a Philly cheesesteak is the slicing technique. The steak should be sliced thinly against the grain, which allows it to be tender and easy to chew. Additionally, the way you cook the steak makes a big difference. It should be cooked on a hot griddle or skillet, allowing the meat to sear quickly and keep its natural juices.
Internal Link Opportunity: What is the secret to tender hamburgers?
The Cheese: What’s the Best Choice?
Choosing the right cheese is almost as important as choosing the right steak. While provolone and American cheese are the go-to options for many cheesesteak lovers, the inclusion of Cheez Whiz often sparks passionate debates. Cheez Whiz has a rich, creamy texture that adds a nostalgic element to the sandwich. Some prefer it because it melts so well and creates that signature cheesesteak “pull.”
However, if you’re looking for a more traditional taste, provolone and American cheese provide a more subtle flavor and smoother melt. The secret ingredient here might be your own personal preference in cheese. The key is to choose a cheese that melts well and complements the flavor of the steak.
The Role of the Bread: The Unsung Hero
While the steak and cheese may steal the spotlight, the bread is just as crucial to a successful Philly cheesesteak. The hoagie roll needs to be soft enough to bite into but sturdy enough to hold the fillings without becoming soggy. If the bread isn’t right, the entire sandwich can fall apart. That’s why freshly baked hoagie rolls are always preferred.
Some cheesesteak enthusiasts opt for artisan bread, but the classic hoagie roll is the best choice for most. The bread should be slightly toasted to give it a little structure but still soft enough to absorb all the flavor from the steak and cheese.
The Secret Ingredient: A Special Touch
What sets a great Philly cheesesteak apart from an average one often lies in the special touch—this could be a unique seasoning, marinade, or even a drizzle of olive oil to give the steak extra flavor. Some chefs even add a bit of onion powder or paprika to the steak as it cooks to give it an extra layer of depth.
But the real secret ingredient for many chefs is the marination technique. Marinades can add an incredible amount of flavor and moisture to the steak, making it more tender and juicy. The key is to marinate the steak for just the right amount of time—not too long, or the flavors will overpower the meat.
How to Make the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak at Home
Making a perfect Philly cheesesteak at home requires attention to detail, but it’s easier than you think. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get you started:
- Prepare the steak: Slice your ribeye or chuck steak thinly against the grain. Marinate if desired.
- Cook the steak: Use a griddle or skillet on high heat. Cook the steak quickly, seasoning with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Melt the cheese: Once the steak is cooked, add your cheese of choice and allow it to melt over the meat.
- Toast the bread: Lightly toast the hoagie rolls to give them structure and prevent them from getting soggy.
- Assemble: Place the steak and melted cheese in the hoagie roll. Add any extra toppings like grilled onions or peppers, if desired.
By following these steps and using high-quality ingredients, you can make a Philly cheesesteak that rivals those from the streets of Philadelphia.
FAQs
1. What is the best cheese for a Philly cheesesteak?
The best cheese for a Philly cheesesteak is typically provolone or American cheese, but Cheez Whiz is also a popular option for its creamy texture.
2. Can you make a Philly cheesesteak without onions?
Yes, onions are optional in a Philly cheesesteak. Some people prefer it without onions, while others consider it a necessary addition for flavor.
3. Is the secret ingredient necessary for authenticity?
While the secret ingredient may vary, the key to an authentic Philly cheesesteak is the quality of the steak, cheese, and the cooking method.
4. What are the main differences between a Philly cheesesteak and other sandwiches?
The main difference lies in the type of meat used (thinly sliced steak), and how it’s cooked. Philly cheesesteaks are unique due to their melted cheese and soft hoagie rolls.
5. How do I get the steak so tender in a Philly cheesesteak?
To get the steak tender, slice it thinly against the grain and cook it quickly over high heat.