The cheesesteak vs. philly cheesesteak debate: separating fact from fiction
What To Know
- A cheesesteak is a general term for a sandwich made with thinly sliced beefsteak, grilled onions, and melted cheese on a long roll.
- This is the original cheesesteak stand, and it is still one of the best places to get a Philly cheesesteak in the city.
- A cheesesteak is a general term for a sandwich made with thinly sliced beefsteak, grilled onions, and melted cheese on a long roll.
The terms “cheesesteak” and “Philly cheesesteak” are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle distinction between the two. A cheesesteak is a general term for a sandwich made with thinly sliced beefsteak, grilled onions, and melted cheese on a long roll. A Philly cheesesteak, on the other hand, is a specific type of cheesesteak that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is characterized by its use of specific ingredients, including Amoroso’s rolls, thinly sliced rib-eye steak, and Cheez Whiz or provolone cheese.
History of the Cheesesteak
The cheesesteak was invented in the early 1930s by Pat and Harry Olivieri, two brothers who owned a hot dog stand in Philadelphia. According to legend, a cab driver asked them to make him a sandwich with steak, onions, and cheese, and the cheesesteak was born. The sandwich quickly became popular in Philadelphia and beyond, and it is now considered one of the city’s signature dishes.
Ingredients of a Philly Cheesesteak
The traditional ingredients of a Philly cheesesteak include:
- Amoroso’s rolls: These long, soft rolls are a key part of the Philly cheesesteak experience. They are made with a special dough that gives them a unique flavor and texture.
- Thinly sliced rib-eye steak: The steak is the star of the Philly cheesesteak, and it should be thinly sliced and cooked to perfection.
- Grilled onions: The onions add a sweet and savory flavor to the sandwich. They should be cooked until they are caramelized.
- Cheese: The cheese is the final touch on a Philly cheesesteak. It can be made with Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American cheese.
Variations on the Philly Cheesesteak
There are many variations on the classic Philly cheesesteak. Some popular variations include:
- The “wit”: This variation includes a layer of fried onions under the steak.
- The “mushrooms”: This variation includes sautéed mushrooms.
- The “pepperoni”: This variation includes sliced pepperoni.
- The “chicken cheesesteak”: This variation uses chicken instead of steak.
- The “vegan cheesesteak”: This variation uses plant-based substitutes for the steak, cheese, and onions.
Where to Find the Best Philly Cheesesteaks
The best Philly cheesesteaks are found in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Some of the most popular places to get a Philly cheesesteak in Philadelphia include:
- Pat’s King of Steaks: This is the original cheesesteak stand, and it is still one of the best places to get a Philly cheesesteak in the city.
- Geno’s Steaks: This is another popular cheesesteak stand that is located across the street from Pat’s King of Steaks.
- Jim’s Steaks: This is a newer cheesesteak stand that has quickly become a favorite among locals.
- Tony Luke’s: This is a popular cheesesteak stand that is located in South Philadelphia.
- Steve’s Prince of Steaks: This is a popular cheesesteak stand that is located in Northeast Philadelphia.
Cheesesteak vs Philly Cheesesteak: Which One Is Better?
The cheesesteak and the Philly cheesesteak are both delicious sandwiches, but which one is better is a matter of personal preference. If you are looking for a classic Philly cheesesteak, then you should order one with Amoroso’s rolls, thinly sliced rib-eye steak, grilled onions, and Cheez Whiz or provolone cheese. If you are looking for a more customizable cheesesteak, then you can order one with your favorite toppings.
The Verdict
The cheesesteak and the Philly cheesesteak are both iconic sandwiches that are enjoyed by people all over the world. Whether you prefer a classic Philly cheesesteak or a more customizable cheesesteak, there is a cheesesteak out there for everyone.
What People Want to Know
- What is the difference between a cheesesteak and a Philly cheesesteak?
A cheesesteak is a general term for a sandwich made with thinly sliced beefsteak, grilled onions, and melted cheese on a long roll. A Philly cheesesteak is a specific type of cheesesteak that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is characterized by its use of specific ingredients, including Amoroso‘s rolls, thinly sliced rib-eye steak, and Cheez Whiz or provolone cheese.
- Who invented the cheesesteak?
The cheesesteak was invented in the early 1930s by Pat and Harry Olivieri, two brothers who owned a hot dog stand in Philadelphia.
- What are the ingredients of a Philly cheesesteak?
The traditional ingredients of a Philly cheesesteak include Amoroso‘s rolls, thinly sliced rib-eye steak, grilled onions, and Cheez Whiz or provolone cheese.
- Where can I find the best Philly cheesesteaks?
The best Philly cheesesteaks are found in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Some of the most popular places to get a Philly cheesesteak in Philadelphia include Pat’s King of Steaks, Geno’s Steaks, Jim’s Steaks, Tony Luke‘s, and Steve’s Prince of Steaks.
- Which is better, a cheesesteak or a Philly cheesesteak?
The cheesesteak and the Philly cheesesteak are both delicious sandwiches, but which one is better is a matter of personal preference. If you are looking for a classic Philly cheesesteak, then you should order one with Amoroso’s rolls, thinly sliced rib-eye steak, grilled onions, and Cheez Whiz or provolone cheese. If you are looking for a more customizable cheesesteak, then you can order one with your favorite toppings.