I’m a Philly local and a big fan of cheesesteaks. I’ve tried over 1,600 of them. The Philly cheesesteak stands out because of its secret ingredient: garlic. It’s not just the steak, cheese, and roll that make it special. Adding garlic powder to the meat and garlic butter to the bread takes it to the next level.
The Philly cheesesteak has deep roots in Italian-American food. Garlic is a key part of this tradition. Adding garlic makes the Philly steak unique. It adds a depth of flavor that goes well with the meat.
Key Takeaways
- The secret ingredient that sets Philly cheesesteaks apart is garlic.
- Garlic powder added to the steak and garlic butter on the bread can elevate the sandwich.
- The Italian-American influence on Philly cheesesteaks includes the use of garlic.
- Garlic provides an extra layer of flavor that complements the rich, savory filling.
- Philly cheesesteaks are a unique and iconic sandwich, thanks in part to the addition of garlic.
The Origins of the Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly cheesesteak has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s. Two men, Pat Olivieri and Joe and Joey Vento, are often credited with inventing it. In the 1930s, Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor, added grilled beef and onions to an Italian roll, creating the first cheesesteak. Around the same time, Joe and Joey Vento started serving their version at Geno’s Steaks.
Pat’s Steaks and Geno’s: The Iconic Rivals
Pat’s Steaks and Geno’s Steaks, right across from each other in South Philadelphia, are famous for their cheesesteaks. They have been rivals for years, making the cheesesteak a beloved Philly dish.
The Italian-American Roots of the Cheesesteak
The cheesesteak comes from Italian-American roots. Its ingredients like steak, onions, and melted cheese are common in Italian food. Adding cheese, especially provolone, in the 1940s made it even more popular in the city’s Italian-American community.
The history of Philly cheesesteak and its Philly cheesesteak origin show the big impact of Italian-American influence on cheesesteak. It’s a key part of Philadelphia’s food culture.
“The Philly cheesesteak has become a symbol of Philadelphia’s cultural heritage, a testament to the city’s rich immigrant history and the enduring love for this iconic sandwich.”
The Classic Philly Cheesesteak Recipe
The Philly cheesesteak is a beloved American sandwich. It’s loved by locals and tourists. It’s made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted cheese, and a soft, crusty Italian roll.
Essential Ingredients: Steak, Cheese, and Bread
To make the perfect Philly cheesesteak, you’ll need 2 pounds of thinly sliced ribeye steak. This steak is tender and flavorful because of its natural marbling. For cheese, you can choose from Cheese Whiz, provolone, or mozzarella. The bread, known as a “hoagie,” is important. It holds the filling well.
Regional Variations: Cheese Whiz vs. Provolone
- Cheese Whiz: A creamy, iconic choice found at the legendary cheesesteak joints like Pat’s and Geno’s.
- Provolone: A richer, more nuanced cheese that is a favorite among Philly cheesesteak aficionados.
- American Cheese: A close runner-up, offering a classic, melty texture.
Choosing your favorite cheese is up to you. But the secret to a great Philly cheesesteak is using quality ingredients and making the sandwich just right.
The Secret Ingredient: Garlic
The secret to Philly cheesesteaks is garlic. Thinly sliced steak, cheese, and bread make the classic recipe. But adding garlic powder to the meat and garlic butter to the rolls takes it to the next level. Garlic is a staple in Italian-American cuisine, which Philly cheesesteaks draw from. It adds a special flavor that goes well with the rich filling.
Garlic is what makes a Philly cheesesteak truly special. What makes Philly cheesesteak unique is its perfect mix of flavors. Philly cheesesteak seasoning often includes garlic powder and other spices. This blend enhances the steak and cheese, making them taste amazing.
Whether you like garlic butter on the rolls or a sprinkle of garlic powder on the steak, it’s a key ingredient. This secret makes the Philly cheesesteak truly unforgettable.
Preparing the Steak with the Secret Ingredient
Making a real Philly cheesesteak starts with the right steak. You need high-quality ribeye for its rich taste and soft texture. This cut of beef is key for a great sandwich.
Seasoning the Meat: A Sprinkle of Garlic Powder
A little garlic powder can change everything in a Philly cheesesteak. Sprinkle it on the steak to add a unique garlic flavor. This spice makes the meat taste amazing, ready for the sandwich.
Start by cutting the Philly cheesesteak steak into thin strips. Make sure they’re 2 inches long and 1/4 inch thick. This makes sure they cook evenly and taste great.
Then, sprinkle seasoning Philly cheesesteak meat with garlic powder all over. This makes sure every piece tastes the same.
Now, cook the how to make Philly cheesesteak steak on a hot griddle. As it cooks, the garlic powder will make the beef taste incredible. This is what makes the cheesesteak so good.
Garlic powder is the secret that makes Philly cheesesteak so tasty. It brings all the flavors together, making the sandwich unforgettable.
What is the secret ingredient in Philly cheesesteak?
The secret to Philly cheesesteaks is garlic. This sandwich is made with thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted cheese, and a crusty Italian roll. But it’s the garlic that takes it to the next level.
Garlic can be added in many ways. It could be garlic powder on the meat or garlic butter on the bread. This simple addition brings out rich, savory flavors and adds complexity. It’s what makes Philly cheesesteaks stand out.
Chris Pinto, a cheesesteak expert, has eaten over 1,600 of them by 2009. He says garlic is key to their uniqueness and taste.
“The secret ingredient that makes Philly cheesesteaks so iconic is the use of garlic, whether in the form of garlic powder on the meat or garlic butter on the bread. It’s a simple seasoning that elevates the rich, savory flavors and sets the Philly cheesesteak apart from all the rest.”
There are many ways to enjoy Philly cheesesteaks, like the classic Cheese Whiz-topped version or the “Garlic Bomb” with sautéed garlic and deep-fried cloves. Garlic is the secret ingredient that makes it a true culinary masterpiece.
Garlic on the Bread: Elevating the Sandwich
Philly cheesesteak fans know the secret to a great sandwich isn’t just in the steak’s seasoning. It’s also in how the bread is prepared. Adding garlic to the bread can make the sandwich even better.
Buttering and Toasting the Rolls with Garlic
Many places and home cooks add garlic to the Philly cheesesteak bread for extra flavor. They mix softened butter with minced garlic or garlic powder. Then, they coat the rolls with it and toast them until they’re golden brown.
This step makes the bread smell amazing and adds a garlicky taste. It goes well with the steak and melted cheese.
Toasting the bread with garlic butter is key to making the perfect sandwich. As the rolls get crispy and the garlic smell spreads, everything is ready for the steak, cheese, and secret ingredient to come together.
“The garlic-infused Philly cheesesteak bread is the unsung hero of this iconic sandwich. It’s the perfect balance to the rich, savory flavors of the steak and cheese.”
Adding garlic to the bread takes the Philly cheesesteak to a new level. Each bite is a mix of flavors that taste great together. This simple addition shows the care and detail that make the Philly cheesesteak special.
Condiments and Toppings for Philly Cheesesteaks
The core of a Philly cheesesteak is the steak, cheese, and bread. But, there are many toppings and condiments that can make it even better. Traditional extras include sautéed onions, green peppers, and hot cherry peppers. These add a tasty contrast to the rich meat.
Locals often choose ketchup for their Philly cheesesteaks, while others prefer mayonnaise. Mushrooms and pizza sauce are also options in some places. They add a special twist to the classic sandwich.
Toppings and Condiments for the Perfect Cheesesteak
- Sautéed Onions: Caramelized onions add a sweet and deep flavor to the sandwich.
- Green Peppers: Crunchy, fresh green peppers offer a refreshing contrast to the warm steak.
- Hot Cherry Peppers: For those who like spice, sliced hot cherry peppers add a kick.
- Ketchup: A favorite in Philadelphia, ketchup brings a tangy, sweet touch to the cheesesteak.
- Mayonnaise: Many outside Philadelphia choose creamy, cool mayonnaise to dress their cheesesteaks.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms bring an earthy, rich flavor to the sandwich.
- Pizza Sauce: A regional choice, pizza sauce adds a tomato-based twist to the classic cheesesteak.
The Philly cheesesteak is great because you can customize it. Whether you like traditional or something new, there are many toppings and condiments to choose from. This lets you make the perfect sandwich for you.
Regional Preferences: Ketchup vs. Mayo
In Philadelphia, ketchup is the top choice for cheesesteaks. But in the rest of the country, mayonnaise is more popular. This difference is a source of pride for Philadelphians, who think ketchup is the only right topping for their famous sandwich.
The way people in Philly like their cheesesteaks shows the city’s unique food culture. They take pride in their sandwich traditions. The debate over ketchup versus mayo is a way to show their local identity. This difference makes the Philly cheesesteak stand out as authentic and traditional.
But it’s not just about the condiment. Philadelphians also have strong views on the best cheese, bread, and steak preparation. Yet, the ketchup-mayo debate is a key part of what makes a Philly cheesesteak truly Philly.
“In Philadelphia, ketchup is the only acceptable condiment for a cheesesteak. Mayonnaise? Get out of here with that nonsense!”
Whether you prefer ketchup or mayo, the Philly cheesesteak’s unique condiment choices add to its rich cultural heritage. This makes it a special food experience.
Philly Cheesesteak Variations
The classic Philly cheesesteak is a favorite, but there are creative twists that make it even better. One such twist is the “Garlic Bomb.” It features a roll smothered in garlic spread, topped with sautéed garlic, and finished with crispy fried garlic cloves. This version brings out the secret ingredient’s power, adding a deep garlic flavor.
The Garlic Bomb: A Garlicky Twist
The Garlic Bomb is a special take on the Philly cheesesteak. It has a roll covered in garlic spread. The steak is then topped with sautéed garlic and crispy fried garlic cloves. This sandwich is perfect for those who love a strong garlic taste.
There are many other creative takes on the Philly cheesesteak too. You can find everything from chicken-based versions to pizza-inspired ones. This lets people try different flavors and textures.
“The beauty of the Philly cheesesteak is its simplicity, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have a little fun with it. The Garlic Bomb is a delightful twist that takes the classic sandwich to new heights of flavor.”
If you like the traditional Philly cheesesteak or want to try something new, garlic is the secret ingredient to explore. It opens up a world of new tastes. So, get creative and see what this beloved sandwich can offer.
Sides and Drinks to Accompany the Cheesesteak
No Philly cheesesteak is complete without the perfect side. Traditional Philly cheesesteak side dishes include crispy Boardwalk fries, creamy coleslaw, and baked potatoes. For Philly cheesesteak beverage pairings, a cold brew or ginger ale are great choices. Some people also like a Jack and Coke or a classic A&W root beer.
Choosing sides and drinks that match the cheesesteak’s bold flavors is key. The perfect side dishes and beverages can make the Philly cheesesteak experience even better.
Side Dish Options
- Crispy Boardwalk Fries
- Creamy Coleslaw
- Baked Potatoes
- Sweet Potato Fries
- Onion Rings
- Cheese Curds
- Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
- Blooming Onion
- Nachos
- Scalloped Potatoes
- Cilantro Lime Slaw
- Garlic Dill Pickles
- Instant Pot Fried Pickles
- Honey Mustard Three-Bean Salad
- Crispy Green Beans
- Korean Corn Dogs
Beverage Pairings
- Cold Brew
- Ginger Ale
- Jack and Coke
- A&W Root Beer
When picking sides and drinks, aim for a balance. You want to enhance the Philly cheesesteak without taking over its flavor.
Conclusion
The secret to a great Philly cheesesteak is garlic. It connects the sandwich to its Italian-American roots and boosts the flavor. Season the steak with garlic powder and toast the rolls with garlic butter for a unique taste.
The Philly cheesesteak is a beloved dish in the U.S. It’s popular whether you get it from Pat’s King of Steaks or Geno’s, or try new versions. The key to a perfect Philly cheesesteak is garlic. This simple ingredient makes the sandwich so loved around the world.
To make a Philly cheesesteak at home, use high-quality ingredients like thin beef and the right cheese. Add some garlic magic to capture the essence of this iconic sandwich. You’ll bring a taste of Philadelphia’s culinary culture to your kitchen.
FAQ
What is the secret ingredient in Philly cheesesteak?
Garlic is the secret ingredient in Philly cheesesteaks. Adding garlic powder to the steak and garlic butter to the rolls makes the sandwich special.
What are the origins of the Philly cheesesteak?
The Philly cheesesteak started in the early 1900s. Pat Olivieri and brothers Joe and Joey Vento both claim to have made the first one in the 1930s. It comes from the Italian-American community, using Italian food staples.
What are the essential ingredients in a classic Philly cheesesteak?
A classic Philly cheesesteak has thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted cheese, and an Italian roll. Cheese Whiz is common, but some prefer provolone or mozzarella for a richer taste.
How do you prepare the steak for a Philly cheesesteak?
Slice the ribeye thinly and season with garlic powder. This adds a subtle garlic flavor to the meat.
What condiments and toppings are typically used on a Philly cheesesteak?
Traditional toppings are sautéed onions, green peppers, and hot cherry peppers. In Philadelphia, ketchup is popular, but mayonnaise is more common elsewhere. Some places offer mushrooms and pizza sauce too.
What are some unique Philly cheesesteak variations?
A unique version is the “Garlic Bomb.” It’s a cheesesteak on garlic spread-coated rolls, with sautéed garlic and deep-fried garlic cloves on top.