What To Know
- The perfect cheese will melt evenly, have a rich and flavorful taste, and complement the savory flavors of the steak.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Ultimately, the best cheese for a Philly steak sandwich is a matter of personal preference.
When it comes to the iconic Philly steak sandwich, the cheese is just as important as the meat. The perfect cheese will melt evenly, have a rich and flavorful taste, and complement the savory flavors of the steak.
Understanding the Philly Steak Sandwich
The Philly steak sandwich is a classic American sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It typically consists of thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and melted cheese on a long, crusty roll. The most popular cheeses used for Philly steak sandwiches are provolone, American, and Cheez Whiz.
Types of Cheese for Philly Steak Sandwiches
Provolone:
- Semi-hard Italian cheese with a mild and nutty flavor
- Melts well and has a slightly stretchy texture
American:
- Processed cheese with a mild and creamy flavor
- Melts quickly and has a smooth consistency
Cheez Whiz:
- Processed cheese sauce with a tangy and creamy flavor
- Melts easily and has a velvety texture
Choosing the Best Cheese for Your Taste
The best cheese for your Philly steak sandwich depends on your personal preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the different types of cheese and their unique characteristics:
Provolone
- Flavor: Mild and nutty
- Texture: Semi-hard, slightly stretchy
- Melting: Melts well and evenly
- Best for: Classic Philly steak sandwich lovers who want a subtle cheese flavor
American
- Flavor: Mild and creamy
- Texture: Soft and smooth
- Melting: Melts quickly and smoothly
- Best for: Those who prefer a mild and creamy cheese that melts easily
Cheez Whiz
- Flavor: Tangy and creamy
- Texture: Velvety and smooth
- Melting: Melts easily and evenly
- Best for: Fans of the classic Philly steak sandwich with a gooey, flavorful cheese
Other Cheese Options
While provolone, American, and Cheez Whiz are the most popular cheeses for Philly steak sandwiches, there are other options you can try:
- Swiss: Mild and nutty flavor, melts well
- Mozzarella: Creamy and stretchy, melts easily
- Pepper Jack: Spicy and flavorful, adds a kick
- Blue cheese: Tangy and pungent, for a unique twist
How to Melt Cheese for a Philly Steak Sandwich
To achieve the perfect melted cheese for your Philly steak sandwich, follow these steps:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the skillet.
3. Place the cheese slices on top of the steak and onions.
4. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Remove the lid and cook for an additional 30 seconds to brown the cheese slightly.
Tips for the Perfect Philly Steak Sandwich
- Use thinly sliced steak: Thinly sliced steak cooks quickly and evenly, resulting in a tender and flavorful sandwich.
- Sauté the onions: Sautéing the onions adds depth and sweetness to the sandwich.
- Melt the cheese evenly: Cover the skillet to ensure the cheese melts evenly and doesn’t burn.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy your Philly steak sandwich while it’s hot and the cheese is still melted.
The Final Verdict: Which Cheese Is the Best?
Ultimately, the best cheese for a Philly steak sandwich is a matter of personal preference. However, provolone, American, and Cheez Whiz remain the classic and most popular choices. Experiment with different cheeses to find the one that best suits your taste buds.
Not the End: The Ultimate FAQ
1. Can I use other types of cheese besides provolone, American, and Cheez Whiz?
Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like Swiss, mozzarella, pepper jack, or blue cheese.
2. How do I melt the cheese without burning it?
Cover the skillet with a lid and cook over medium heat. Remove the lid for the last 30 seconds to brown the cheese slightly.
3. What is the best way to slice the steak for a Philly steak sandwich?
Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips. This will make the steak more tender and easier to chew.
4. How do I make sure the onions are cooked properly?
Sauté the onions over medium heat until they are translucent and slightly caramelized.
5. Can I make a vegetarian Philly steak sandwich?
Yes, you can use sliced portobello mushrooms or seitan instead of steak.
