Philly cheese steak

Philly Cheese Steak

The Philly Cheese Steak is a popular sandwich originating from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States. It is made with thinly sliced pieces of beefsteak and melted cheese in a long hoagie roll, a type of submarine sandwich bread. The dish is a staple of Philadelphia cuisine and has become widely known across the United States and in various parts of the world.

History

The creation of the Philly Cheese Steak is often credited to Pat and Harry Olivieri in the early 1930s. The Olivieri brothers were hot dog vendors in South Philadelphia who decided to put some beef from the butcher on their grill. The original sandwich did not include cheese and was only later added. The exact details of how cheese became a standard addition to the sandwich are debated, but it has become an essential component of the dish.

Ingredients

The primary ingredients of a Philly Cheese Steak include:

• Thinly sliced beef, traditionally ribeye
• Melted cheese, with Provolone, American cheese, and Cheez Whiz being the most popular choices
• A long, crusty hoagie roll

Optional ingredients often include sautéed onions, green bell peppers, mushrooms, and ketchup.

Preparation

The beef is thinly sliced and then quickly fried on a griddle. Once nearly cooked, the meat is divided into portions, and cheese is placed on top to melt. Meanwhile, the hoagie roll is cut open and may be toasted. The cheesy beef mixture is then scooped onto the roll. Optional toppings like onions and peppers are cooked separately and can be added as per the customer's preference.

Variations

While the basic components of the Philly Cheese Steak remain consistent, variations exist, often based on the type of cheese used or additional toppings. Some variations include:

• Cheese Steak Hoagie: Includes lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise
• Pizza Steak: Topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese
• Buffalo Chicken Cheese Steak: Substitutes chicken for beef and includes Buffalo sauce

Cultural Impact

The Philly Cheese Steak has become an iconic symbol of Philadelphia cuisine, with many establishments throughout the city claiming to offer the best or most authentic version of the sandwich. It has also made its way into the menus of American restaurants worldwide, further cementing its status as a beloved dish.

See Also

• American cuisine
• Sandwiches
• Philadelphia