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September 20, 2024
Philly cheesesteak is a classic American sandwich that originated in Philadelphia. It is made with thinly sliced beefsteak, melted cheese, and a soft roll. While many people traditionally cook their cheesesteak on a stovetop or a grill, using a griddle can be a great alternative.
A griddle is a flat cooking surface that allows for even heat distribution and can give your Philly cheesesteak a delicious crispy crust. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply prefer the convenience of a griddle, here’s how you can make a mouthwatering Philly cheesesteak on a griddle.
Start by heating your griddle to medium-high heat. It’s important to preheat the griddle to ensure that the beefsteak cooks evenly and develops a beautiful caramelized crust. While the griddle is heating, thinly slice your beefsteak. You can use ribeye, sirloin, or any other tender cut of beef. Make sure to slice it against the grain to ensure a tender and juicy result.
Next, melt some butter on the griddle. The butter will give your cheesesteak a rich and flavorful taste, as well as help prevent sticking. Once the butter has melted, add the sliced beefsteak to the griddle. Spread it out into an even layer and let it cook for a few minutes until it starts to brown. Use a spatula to flip the beefsteak and cook it for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Once the beefsteak is cooked to perfection, it’s time to add the cheese. Traditionally, Philly cheesesteak is made with Cheez Whiz, but you can also use provolone, American cheese, or any other meltable cheese. Place a slice or a generous amount of cheese on top of the beefsteak and let it melt. You can cover the griddle with a lid or a large metal bowl to help the cheese melt faster.
Finally, it’s time to assemble your Philly cheesesteak. Cut a soft roll in half and place it on the griddle to toast it slightly. Once the roll is toasted, use a spatula to transfer the beefsteak and melted cheese onto the bottom half of the roll. You can also add toppings such as sautéed onions, peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor. The last step is to place the top half of the roll on the sandwich and press it down gently. Now your mouthwatering Philly cheesesteak is ready to be enjoyed!
What is Philly Cheesesteak?
Philly Cheesesteak is a popular sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is made with thinly sliced beefsteak, typically ribeye or top round, and melted cheese, served on a long roll.
The exact origins of Philly Cheesesteak are debated, but it is believed to have been created by Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor in the 1930s. One day, he decided to make a sandwich using sliced beef instead of hot dogs, and added some melted cheese to it. The sandwich quickly gained popularity and became a local icon in Philadelphia.
Traditionally, Philly Cheesesteak is made by cooking thinly sliced beef on a griddle along with onions. The beef is chopped into small pieces as it cooks, and then cheese, usually American or Cheez Whiz, is melted on top. The sandwich is typically topped with additional ingredients such as peppers, mushrooms, or sauce.
Philly Cheesesteak is known for its rich and savory flavors, with the combination of tender beef, melted cheese, and caramelized onions creating a delicious and satisfying meal. It is often enjoyed as a lunch or dinner option, and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
When in Philadelphia, trying an authentic Philly Cheesesteak is a must-do culinary experience. The city is known for its numerous cheesesteak shops, each with their own twist on the classic sandwich. Whether you prefer yours with provolone, wit’ or wit’out onions, or with a side of fries, Philly Cheesesteak is a delicious and iconic dish that represents the city’s culinary culture.
Why Use a Griddle?
When it comes to cooking a Philly cheesesteak, using a griddle is the way to go. A griddle offers several advantages over other cooking methods, making it the preferred choice for preparing this delicious sandwich.
Even Heat Distribution
One of the main reasons to use a griddle for cooking a Philly cheesesteak is its ability to distribute heat evenly. The flat surface of a griddle ensures that every inch of your sandwich receives consistent heat, resulting in a perfectly cooked steak and melted cheese.
Unlike a stovetop or a frying pan, a griddle provides a larger cooking surface, allowing you to cook multiple cheesesteaks at the same time without overcrowding. This ensures that each sandwich gets enough space to sear and develop a flavorful crust.
Greater Control
A griddle also gives you greater control over the cooking process. You can easily adjust the temperature by turning the dial, allowing you to achieve the ideal level of doneness for your steak. Whether you prefer a medium-rare or well-done cheesesteak, a griddle allows you to cook it to perfection.
The flat surface of a griddle also makes it easier to flip and move around your sandwich without worrying about it falling apart. This is especially important when melting the cheese, as you can gently scrape it off the griddle surface and onto the steak without any hassle.
Additionally, a griddle’s smooth surface is non-stick, reducing the chances of your sandwich sticking and tearing apart. This ensures that your Philly cheesesteak maintains its integrity and comes out looking and tasting delicious.
Overall, using a griddle to cook a Philly cheesesteak offers even heat distribution, greater control over the cooking process, and a non-stick surface. These factors make a griddle the perfect tool for achieving a mouthwatering, flavorful, and perfectly cooked sandwich.
Preparing the Ingredients
Before you start cooking your Philly cheesesteak on the griddle, you’ll need to gather and prepare all of the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Steak: Choose a high-quality cut of beef for your cheesesteak, such as ribeye or sirloin. Slice the steak thinly against the grain to ensure tender, bite-sized pieces.
2. Onion: Thinly slice an onion to add flavor and texture to your cheesesteak. You can use a yellow or white onion, depending on your preference.
3. Bell peppers: Cut a bell pepper into thin strips to add some sweetness and crunch to your cheesesteak. You can use any color of bell pepper you like, or a combination of different colors.
4. Cheese: The traditional cheese for a Philly cheesesteak is Cheez Whiz, but you can also use provolone or American cheese. Slice or shred the cheese so that it melts easily.
5. Hoagie rolls: Get fresh hoagie rolls from your local bakery or grocery store. Cut the rolls in half lengthwise, but make sure not to slice all the way through.
6. Condiments: Gather any desired condiments, such as ketchup, mayonnaise, or hot sauce, to customize your cheesesteak to your taste.
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
When it comes to making a delicious Philly cheesesteak on a griddle, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. The most traditional and commonly used cut is thinly sliced ribeye steak, but other cuts such as sirloin or flank steak can also be used.
When selecting your cut of meat, look for a well-marbled steak with nice fat content. The marbling will add flavor and juiciness to the cheesesteak, while the fat will help keep the meat moist during cooking.
Ribeye Steak:
Ribeye steak is a popular choice for Philly cheesesteaks because it is well-marbled and tender. The marbling adds a delicious flavor to the steak, and the tenderness makes it easy to cook and enjoy.
Sirloin Steak:
Sirloin steak is a leaner option compared to ribeye steak, but it can still work well for a Philly cheesesteak. It has less fat, but the meat is still flavorful and tender. Make sure to slice it thinly against the grain to ensure a tender and easy-to-chew bite.
Flank Steak:
Flank steak is another popular choice for cheesesteaks. It has strong beefy flavor and is known for its tenderness. Though it is leaner compared to ribeye or sirloin, it can still be a delicious option if cooked and sliced correctly.
Regardless of the cut you choose, it is essential to slice the meat thinly against the grain. This ensures that the meat remains tender and easy to chew. You can either ask your butcher to slice the meat for you, or if you prefer to do it yourself, freeze the steak for about 15-20 minutes prior to slicing. This will make it easier to achieve thin slices.
Now that you know how to choose the right cut of meat for your Philly cheesesteak, let’s move on to the next step – preparing the onions and peppers!
Slicing the Meat Thinly
When preparing a Philly cheesesteak, one of the most important steps is slicing the meat thinly. The meat is traditionally ribeye steak, which is full of flavor and has a good amount of marbling. To achieve that iconic Philly cheesesteak texture and taste, it is essential to slice the meat thinly.
First, you will need to freeze the ribeye steak for about 30 minutes before slicing. This helps firm up the meat and makes it easier to achieve thin slices. Once the steak is partially frozen, take it out of the freezer and unwrap it.
Next, using a sharp knife, hold the ribeye steak firmly and start slicing it against the grain. The grain refers to the lines or strands running through the meat. By slicing against the grain, you ensure that each piece of meat is tender and easy to bite into.
Make sure to cut the slices as thinly as possible, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Thinly sliced meat cooks quickly and evenly, resulting in a deliciously juicy cheesesteak. If the slices are too thick, they can be tough and chewy.
After slicing the meat, it’s essential to keep it refrigerated until you are ready to cook. This helps prevent any bacterial growth and maintains the freshness of the meat.
| Tip: | For an even easier slicing experience, you can ask your local butcher to slice the ribeye steak thinly for you. Many butchers are experienced in preparing Philly cheesesteak meat and can ensure perfectly sliced meat every time. |
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FAQ
What is a Philly cheesesteak?
A Philly cheesesteak is a type of sandwich made with thinly sliced beefsteak, melted cheese, and sometimes onions and peppers. It is a popular dish originating from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
What type of cheese is commonly used in a Philly cheesesteak?
The most commonly used cheese in a Philly cheesesteak is Cheez Whiz or American cheese. However, other types of cheese like provolone or Swiss can also be used.
Can I use a different type of meat instead of beefsteak?
Yes, you can use a different type of meat instead of beefsteak, but it may not be considered a traditional Philly cheesesteak. Some alternatives include chicken, pork, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Is it necessary to use a griddle to cook a Philly cheesesteak?
No, it is not necessary to use a griddle to cook a Philly cheesesteak. You can also use a skillet or a frying pan to cook the steak and vegetables, and a toaster or an oven to toast the rolls. However, using a griddle can help achieve the authentic Philly cheesesteak texture and flavor.
What is a Philly cheesesteak?
A Philly cheesesteak is a popular sandwich originating from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It typically consists of thinly sliced beefsteak, melted cheese, and sometimes onions, peppers, or mushrooms. It is usually served on a hoagie roll.