The Philly Cheesesteak, a sandwich that has become synonymous with the city of Philadelphia, is a culinary delight that has been debated and discussed by food enthusiasts for decades. At the heart of this iconic dish is the cheese, a crucial component that elevates the flavors and textures of the steak, onions, and bread. But have you ever wondered what the original cheese on a Philly Cheesesteak was? In this article, we will delve into the history of the Philly Cheesesteak, explore the different types of cheese that have been used over the years, and uncover the truth behind the city’s beloved dish.
A Brief History of the Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly Cheesesteak has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 1930s. The story goes that a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers and construction workers in South Philadelphia. One day, a taxi cab driver asked Olivieri to add some cheese to his steak sandwich, and the Philly Cheesesteak was born. Olivieri’s hot dog stand eventually became a restaurant, Pat’s King of Steaks, which is still open today and is widely regarded as the birthplace of the Philly Cheesesteak.
The Early Years: Cheez Whiz and the Rise of the Philly Cheesesteak
In the early years of the Philly Cheesesteak, the cheese of choice was Cheez Whiz, a processed cheese spread that was introduced in the 1950s. Cheez Whiz was a convenient and affordable option for restaurants, and it quickly became a staple in Philly Cheesesteak joints across the city. The creamy, melted texture of Cheez Whiz complemented the juicy steak and crispy onions perfectly, and it helped to establish the Philly Cheesesteak as a beloved culinary icon.
Other Cheeses Enter the Scene
As the popularity of the Philly Cheesesteak grew, other cheeses began to enter the scene. Provolone, a mild, smooth Italian cheese, became a popular alternative to Cheez Whiz. Provolone has a richer, more nuanced flavor than Cheez Whiz, and it adds a nice depth and complexity to the Philly Cheesesteak. Other cheeses, such as mozzarella and American, have also been used in Philly Cheesesteaks, but they are less traditional and less widely accepted.
The Great Cheese Debate
The question of what cheese is the most authentic and traditional on a Philly Cheesesteak is a topic of much debate. Some argue that Cheez Whiz is the only true cheese for a Philly Cheesesteak, while others claim that provolone is the superior choice. The debate has sparked a lot of passion and controversy, with some restaurants and chefs refusing to serve anything but Cheez Whiz, while others insist that provolone is the way to go.
Cheez Whiz: The Original and the Best?
Cheez Whiz has a loyal following in Philadelphia, and many argue that it is the only cheese that truly captures the spirit of the Philly Cheesesteak. Cheez Whiz has a unique, processed flavor that is both creamy and tangy, and it melts beautifully, creating a smooth, velvety texture that complements the steak and onions perfectly. Additionally, Cheez Whiz is a nostalgic choice, evoking memories of childhood trips to Pat’s King of Steaks and other iconic Philly Cheesesteak joints.
Provolone: A Worthwhile Alternative
Provolone, on the other hand, offers a more sophisticated and nuanced flavor profile than Cheez Whiz. Provolone has a rich, buttery flavor that adds depth and complexity to the Philly Cheesesteak, and it melts beautifully, creating a smooth, creamy texture. Provolone is also a more versatile cheese than Cheez Whiz, pairing well with a variety of toppings and ingredients, from sautéed onions and bell peppers to mushrooms and hot peppers.
The Verdict: What is the Original Cheese on a Philly Cheesesteak?
So, what is the original cheese on a Philly Cheesesteak? The answer, surprisingly, is Cheez Whiz. According to Pat’s King of Steaks, the birthplace of the Philly Cheesesteak, Cheez Whiz has been the cheese of choice since the 1950s. In fact, Pat’s King of Steaks still serves their famous Philly Cheesesteaks with Cheez Whiz to this day, and it remains a beloved and iconic part of the city’s culinary heritage.
A Word on Authenticity
While Cheez Whiz may be the original cheese on a Philly Cheesesteak, it’s worth noting that authenticity is a complex and multifaceted concept. What constitutes an authentic Philly Cheesesteak is a matter of debate, and different restaurants and chefs may have different interpretations of this beloved dish. Ultimately, the choice of cheese is a matter of personal preference, and both Cheez Whiz and provolone have their own unique charms and advantages.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the original cheese on a Philly Cheesesteak is Cheez Whiz, a processed cheese spread that has been a staple in Philly Cheesesteak joints for decades. While provolone and other cheeses have their own merits and advantages, Cheez Whiz remains the most traditional and iconic choice for this beloved dish. Whether you’re a fan of Cheez Whiz or provolone, one thing is certain: the Philly Cheesesteak is a culinary delight that continues to captivate and inspire food enthusiasts around the world.
| Cheese | Description |
|---|---|
| Cheez Whiz | A processed cheese spread with a unique, creamy flavor |
| Provolone | A mild, smooth Italian cheese with a rich, buttery flavor |
The debate over the original cheese on a Philly Cheesesteak may never be fully resolved, but one thing is certain: this beloved dish continues to inspire passion and devotion in food enthusiasts around the world. Whether you’re a fan of Cheez Whiz or provolone, the Philly Cheesesteak is a culinary icon that is sure to delight and satisfy. So next time you’re in Philadelphia, be sure to stop by Pat’s King of Steaks or another iconic Philly Cheesesteak joint, and experience the magic of this beloved dish for yourself.
What is the origin of the Philly cheesesteak?
The Philly cheesesteak is a iconic dish that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The exact origin of the dish is unclear, but it is often attributed to Pat’s King of Steaks, a restaurant in South Philadelphia that has been serving cheesesteaks since 1930. According to legend, the cheesesteak was invented by Pat Olivieri, the founder of Pat’s King of Steaks, who began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers and construction workers. The dish quickly gained popularity, and soon Olivieri began adding cheese to the sandwich, creating the classic Philly cheesesteak.
The original cheese used on a Philly cheesesteak is a topic of debate, with some claiming it was Cheez Whiz, while others argue it was provolone or mozzarella. However, it is widely accepted that the first cheesesteaks were made with Cheez Whiz, which was introduced in the 1950s. The creamy, melted cheese added a rich and tangy flavor to the sandwich, which complemented the tender steak and crispy roll perfectly. Over time, other cheeses have become popular alternatives, but Cheez Whiz remains the classic choice for a traditional Philly cheesesteak. Whether you prefer Cheez Whiz or another type of cheese, the Philly cheesesteak remains a beloved dish that is deeply rooted in the city’s history and culture.
What type of cheese was originally used on a Philly cheesesteak?
The type of cheese originally used on a Philly cheesesteak is a topic of much debate. While some claim it was provolone or mozzarella, the majority of evidence suggests that Cheez Whiz was the original cheese used on the sandwich. Cheez Whiz is a processed cheese spread that was introduced in the 1950s, and it quickly became a popular ingredient in many American dishes, including the Philly cheesesteak. The creamy, melted texture of Cheez Whiz added a rich and tangy flavor to the sandwich, which complemented the tender steak and crispy roll perfectly.
The use of Cheez Whiz on a Philly cheesesteak is still a popular choice today, and many restaurants in Philadelphia continue to use it as their cheese of choice. However, other cheeses have also become popular alternatives, including provolone, mozzarella, and American. Some restaurants even offer a variety of cheese options, allowing customers to customize their cheesesteak to their liking. Whether you prefer the classic Cheez Whiz or a different type of cheese, the Philly cheesesteak remains a delicious and iconic dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
How did the Philly cheesesteak become so popular?
The Philly cheesesteak became popular through a combination of factors, including its delicious taste, convenient location, and effective marketing. Pat’s King of Steaks, the restaurant where the cheesesteak was invented, was located in a busy area of South Philadelphia, where it was easily accessible to taxi cab drivers, construction workers, and other locals. The restaurant’s owner, Pat Olivieri, was also a skilled marketer who recognized the potential of his sandwich and worked to promote it to a wider audience. Through a combination of word-of-mouth advertising, print ads, and strategic partnerships, Olivieri was able to build a loyal following for his restaurant and his signature sandwich.
As the popularity of the Philly cheesesteak grew, it began to attract attention from outside of Philadelphia. Food writers and critics from around the country began to take notice of the sandwich, and it was soon featured in newspapers, magazines, and cookbooks. The Philly cheesesteak also became a popular tourist attraction, with visitors from around the world flocking to Philadelphia to try the iconic sandwich. Today, the Philly cheesesteak is one of the most recognizable and beloved dishes in the United States, with a loyal following that spans the globe. Whether you’re a native Philadelphian or just visiting the city, the Philly cheesesteak is a must-try dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
What is the best type of cheese to use on a Philly cheesesteak?
The best type of cheese to use on a Philly cheesesteak is a matter of personal preference. While Cheez Whiz is the classic choice, other cheeses such as provolone, mozzarella, and American are also popular alternatives. Provolone is a mild, smooth cheese that melts well and adds a rich, buttery flavor to the sandwich. Mozzarella is another popular choice, with a creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. American cheese is also a good option, with a mild, creamy flavor and a smooth, melted texture.
Ultimately, the best type of cheese to use on a Philly cheesesteak is the one that you enjoy the most. Some people prefer the classic Cheez Whiz, while others like to mix things up with a different type of cheese. If you’re looking to try something new, you could consider using a combination of cheeses, such as provolone and mozzarella, or experimenting with different cheese flavors, such as pepper jack or cheddar. Whatever cheese you choose, the key is to find a balance between the cheese, the steak, and the roll, so that each component complements the others and creates a delicious, harmonious flavor.
Can you make a Philly cheesesteak at home?
Yes, you can make a Philly cheesesteak at home, and it’s easier than you might think. The key to making a great Philly cheesesteak is to use high-quality ingredients, including thinly sliced steak, fresh bread, and melted cheese. You’ll also need a hot skillet or griddle to cook the steak and melt the cheese. To start, slice a ribeye or top round steak into thin strips and season with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Add the steak to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Once the steak is cooked, add sliced cheese to the skillet and let it melt. You can use Cheez Whiz, provolone, mozzarella, or any other type of cheese you like. While the cheese is melting, toast a hoagie roll on the grill or in the oven. Assemble the sandwich by placing the steak and cheese on the roll, and add any desired toppings, such as sautéed onions or bell peppers. Serve immediately and enjoy. With a little practice, you can make a delicious Philly cheesesteak at home that’s just as good as the ones you’d find in Philadelphia.
What are some common variations of the Philly cheesesteak?
There are many common variations of the Philly cheesesteak, including different types of cheese, meats, and toppings. Some popular variations include the “Whiz wit,” which features Cheez Whiz and sautéed onions, and the “provolone without,” which features provolone cheese and no onions. Other variations might include different types of meat, such as chicken or pork, or unique toppings, such as mushrooms or jalapenos. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as a crusty baguette or a soft pretzel roll.
Some restaurants in Philadelphia have also created their own unique variations of the Philly cheesesteak, using ingredients such as lobster, buffalo chicken, or vegan cheese. These creative variations can be a fun twist on the classic sandwich, and they offer a way for chefs and restaurants to put their own spin on a beloved dish. Whether you’re a traditionalist who sticks to the classic recipe or an adventurer who likes to try new things, there’s a Philly cheesesteak variation out there for you. So don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own favorite way to enjoy this iconic sandwich.
How has the Philly cheesesteak impacted the city of Philadelphia?
The Philly cheesesteak has had a significant impact on the city of Philadelphia, both culturally and economically. The sandwich has become a beloved symbol of the city, and it’s often featured in tourism campaigns and marketing materials. The Philly cheesesteak has also played a major role in shaping the city’s food culture, with many restaurants and eateries throughout the city serving their own versions of the sandwich. Additionally, the Philly cheesesteak has helped to put Philadelphia on the culinary map, attracting foodies and tourists from around the world.
The economic impact of the Philly cheesesteak cannot be overstated. The sandwich has created jobs and stimulated economic growth in the city, particularly in the restaurant and tourism industries. Many restaurants in Philadelphia rely on the Philly cheesesteak as a main menu item, and the sandwich has helped to support local businesses and suppliers. The Philly cheesesteak has also become a major draw for tourists, with many visitors coming to the city specifically to try the iconic sandwich. As a result, the Philly cheesesteak has become an important part of Philadelphia’s identity and a key driver of the city’s economy.