If you've ever visited Philadelphia, chances are you've indulged in one of the city's most iconic dishes - the Philly cheesesteak. But did you know that you can make this delicious sandwich right in your own BBQ shack? In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to create a mouthwatering Philly cheesesteak that will rival any restaurant version.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let's talk about the ingredients you'll need for this delicious sandwich. Here's what you'll need:
- 500g of thinly sliced ribeye steak
- 4 hoagie rolls (sub rolls in Australia)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 8 slices of provolone cheese
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced (optional)
- 1 jalapeno pepper, sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste or a great beef rub
Instructions
- Begin by slicing with a sharp knife, your onion and peppers (if using) and set them aside.
- Heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil.
- Once the skillet is hot, add the sliced onions and peppers (if using) and sauté them until they are caramelized and browned.
- Remove the onions and peppers from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced ribeye steak and season it with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the steak for 3-4 minutes until it is browned and cooked through.
- Once the steak is cooked, add the caramelized onions and peppers back into the skillet and stir everything together.
- Lay the slices of provolone cheese over the top of the steak mixture and cover the skillet with a lid.
- Allow the cheese to melt for 1-2 minutes until it is gooey and melted.
- Slice the hoagie rolls in half and place them under the grill until they are toasted and crispy.
- Scoop the steak mixture onto the toasted hoagie rolls and serve immediately.
Tips and Tricks
- Use a good quality ribeye steak for the best flavor and texture.
- Make sure to slice the steak thinly to ensure it cooks quickly and evenly.
- Don't skimp on the cheese – use plenty of it for a truly indulgent sandwich.
- If you're feeling adventurous, add some sliced jalapenos for a spicy kick and maybe some Blues Hog Tennessee Red Sauce
- Serve the sandwich with a side of crispy French fries for the ultimate meal.
The History of the Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly cheesesteak has been a staple in Philadelphia for over 80 years, and it has become a beloved sandwich around the world. Legend has it that the sandwich was first created by Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor who decided to switch things up by using thinly sliced steak and grilled onions instead. He served the sandwich on a roll and added cheese, and the Philly cheesesteak was born.
FAQs
- What type of steak should I use for my Philly cheesesteak? Traditionally, a thinly sliced ribeye steak is used for Philly cheesesteaks. However, you can also use other cuts of beef such as sirloin or flank steak.
- How do I know when my steak is cooked to perfection? If you have a meat thermometer, you can aim for an internal temperature of 135°F for medium rare, 145°F for medium, and 155°F for well done. But if you're not using a thermometer, just make sure the steak is browned on both sides and no longer pink in the middle.
- Can I use a different type of bread for my Philly cheesesteak? While the classic hoagie roll is the traditional choice, you can use any type of bread you prefer. A crusty baguette or a soft sub roll both work well. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold all of the delicious fillings.
- What should I serve with my Philly cheesesteak? French fries are the classic choice, but you can also serve your sandwich with potato chips, onion rings, or a side salad. And don't forget the pickles!
- Can I make a vegetarian version of the Philly cheesesteak? Absolutely! There are many meatless options for the steak, such as seitan or portobello mushrooms. Just make sure to load up on the cheese and onions for maximum flavour.
- Try a beef rub for extra taste:
Conclusion
Making a perfect Philly cheesesteak may seem daunting at first, but with the right ingredients and some simple steps, you can recreate this iconic sandwich in your own kitchen. From caramelized onions to gooey melted cheese, the flavors and textures of this sandwich will leave you craving more. So go ahead, channel your inner Pat Olivieri, and whip up a delicious Philly cheesesteak today!
