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October 27, 2024
Philly Cheesesteak is a delicious and iconic sandwich that originated in Philadelphia. The key to making an authentic Philly Cheesesteak lies in the thinly sliced and perfectly cooked shaved steak. Achieving the ideal texture and flavor for the shaved steak is crucial for creating a mouthwatering sandwich that will leave you craving for more.
To cook the shaved steak for Philly Cheesesteak, you will need to start with a high-quality cut of beef. The most traditional choice is ribeye, as it is well-marbled and tender. However, you can also use other cuts such as sirloin or flank steak. The beef should be thinly sliced against the grain to achieve that signature tender and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
To cook the shaved steak, heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and let it heat up. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced beef to the skillet in an even layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will prevent the beef from browning properly.
Cook the shaved steak for a few minutes on each side until it is browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare steak, cook for about 2-3 minutes per side. For a more well-done steak, cook for an additional minute or two. You can also season the shaved steak with salt, pepper, and other desired spices to enhance the flavor.
Once the shaved steak is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a more tender and flavorful result. Now, you are ready to assemble your Philly Cheesesteak sandwich using the shaved steak as the star ingredient. Top it off with melted cheese, sautéed onions and bell peppers, and serve it in a toasted roll for the perfect Philly Cheesesteak experience.
Tips:
If you prefer your shaved steak to be extra tender, you can marinate it in a mixture of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and other desired seasonings for a couple of hours before cooking.
If you don’t have a skillet or griddle, you can also cook the shaved steak on a barbecue grill or under the broiler in your oven.
Don’t forget to thinly slice your onions and bell peppers for the classic Philly Cheesesteak topping.
Step-by-step guide on cooking shaved steak for philly cheesesteak
Philly cheesesteak is a classic and delicious sandwich that consists of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and onions. The key to a great Philly cheesesteak lies in the preparation of the shaved steak. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook shaved steak for your Philly cheesesteak:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Start by purchasing a high-quality cut of beef, such as ribeye or top round. These cuts are tender and flavorful, making them perfect for a Philly cheesesteak. |
| 2 | Place the beef in the freezer for about an hour. This step will help firm up the meat, making it easier to slice thinly. |
| 3 | Remove the beef from the freezer and use a sharp knife to slice it against the grain into thin strips. The thinner the slices, the faster and more tender the meat will cook. |
| 4 | Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil to the pan and let it heat up. |
| 5 | Add the shaved steak to the hot pan and spread it out into an even layer. Allow it to cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes to develop a nice sear. |
| 6 | Flip the shaved steak using tongs or a spatula and continue cooking for another couple of minutes. |
| 7 | While the shaved steak is cooking, season it with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings, such as garlic powder or onion powder. |
| 8 | Add sliced onions to the pan with the shaved steak and cook them until they are caramelized and softened. |
| 9 | Once the shaved steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness and the onions are caramelized, turn off the heat and remove the pan from the stove. |
| 10 | Immediately top the shaved steak with slices of your preferred cheese, such as provolone or American cheese. The residual heat from the pan will melt the cheese. |
| 11 | Using a spatula, carefully transfer the cooked shaved steak and onions with melted cheese to a warm roll or hoagie bun. |
| 12 | Serve the Philly cheesesteak sandwich hot and enjoy! |
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have perfectly cooked shaved steak for your homemade Philly cheesesteak sandwich. Remember to customize your sandwich with additional toppings and condiments to suit your taste.
Choosing the right cut of steak
When it comes to making a mouthwatering Philly cheesesteak, choosing the right cut of steak is crucial. The most traditional cut used for this iconic sandwich is the ribeye steak. The ribeye is known for its rich marbling and tender texture, which are key factors in creating a juicy and flavorful filling for your sandwich.
However, if you prefer a leaner option, you can also opt for cuts like sirloin or flank steak. These cuts are lower in fat but still deliver excellent flavor when cooked properly. Keep in mind that leaner cuts may require a little more attention while cooking to maintain their tenderness.
When selecting your steak, look for cuts that are well-marbled, with a good balance of fat and meat. This marbling not only adds flavor but also keeps the meat moist during cooking. Additionally, choose cuts that are about 1/4-inch thick to ensure they cook evenly and quickly.
It’s important to note that the way you slice the steak also plays a significant role in the final texture and taste of your Philly cheesesteak. For a classic and authentic shaved steak, freeze your chosen cut of steak for about 30 minutes before slicing it against the grain into thin strips. This will help you achieve those deliciously tender and melt-in-your-mouth meaty bites.
- Ribeye steak: Richly marbled and tender, perfect for a juicy and flavorful Philly cheesesteak.
- Sirloin steak: A leaner option that still delivers excellent flavor when cooked properly.
- Flank steak: Another lean option with great flavor, but requires careful cooking to maintain tenderness.
Preparing the meat
Before you start cooking the shaved steak for Philly cheesesteak, it’s important to properly prepare the meat. Follow these steps to ensure your meat is tender and flavorful:
- Selecting the right cut: Look for a tender and marbled cut of beef, such as ribeye or top sirloin. These cuts have enough fat to keep the meat juicy and flavorful.
- Freezing and slicing the meat: Place the steak in the freezer for about an hour to firm it up. This will make it easier to slice the meat into thin, even slices. Using a sharp knife, slice the meat against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Seasoning the meat: Generously season the shaved steak slices with salt and pepper. You can also add other spices or marinades, such as Worcestershire sauce or garlic powder, to enhance the flavor.
- Cooking the meat: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and let it heat up. Working in batches, cook the shaved steak slices for a few minutes on each side until they are browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this can prevent the meat from browning properly. Transfer the cooked meat to a plate and set it aside.
By properly preparing the meat, you’ll ensure that your Philly cheesesteak is flavorful and tender, making it a delicious meal for any occasion.
Marinating the shaved steak
The key to a delicious Philly cheesesteak is marinating the shaved steak beforehand. This step ensures that the meat is flavorful and tender when cooked.
Here’s how to marinate the shaved steak for your Philly cheesesteak:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of shaved steak
- 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and black pepper.
- Add the shaved steak to the marinade and toss until all the meat is coated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the steak marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight.
- After marinating, remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before cooking.
Marinating the shaved steak adds depth of flavor to your Philly cheesesteak. The Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce provide savory and umami notes, while the garlic adds a hint of pungency. The black pepper adds a subtle kick to the meat.
By taking the time to marinate the shaved steak, you’ll elevate the taste of your Philly cheesesteak and ensure a tender and delicious final result.
Cooking the shaved steak
Once you have your shaved steak ready, it’s time to cook it to perfection for your Philly cheesesteak. Follow these simple steps to get the best results:
1. Preparing the pan
Start by heating a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. You want the pan to be hot enough to sear the steak quickly, but not so hot that it burns.
2. Seasoning the steak
Before cooking the shaved steak, season it with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for extra flavor. Massage the seasonings into the steak to ensure it’s evenly coated.
3. Cooking the steak
Add a little oil or butter to the hot pan and let it melt. Then, carefully add the seasoned shaved steak in a single layer. Cook the steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
For a rare to medium-rare steak, cook it for 2 minutes on each side. If you prefer a medium or well-done steak, cook it for an additional minute on each side.
4. Breaking up the meat
Using a spatula or tongs, break up the cooked steak into smaller pieces as it continues to cook. This will help create that signature texture of a Philly cheesesteak.
Continue cooking the shaved steak for another minute or two, or until it’s fully cooked and slightly browned.
5. Removing from heat and serving
Once the shaved steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the heat and transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease.
Now, you’re ready to assemble your Philly cheesesteak using the delicious cooked shaved steak!
FAQ
What is shaved steak?
Shaved steak is thinly sliced beef that is commonly used in recipes like Philly cheesesteak. It is cut from a single piece of beef and typically has a tender and succulent texture.
Where can I buy shaved steak?
You can usually find shaved steak at your local grocery store or butcher. If you can’t find it, you can ask the butcher to shave a piece of beef for you, or you can use thinly sliced beef sirloin or ribeye instead.
How do I season shaved steak?
To season shaved steak for Philly cheesesteak, you can use a combination of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Simply sprinkle the seasonings over the shaved steak and toss to coat evenly before cooking.
What is the best way to cook shaved steak?
The best way to cook shaved steak for Philly cheesesteak is to cook it on a hot griddle or skillet. Heat some oil or butter in the pan, then add the shaved steak and cook it for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and cooked through. Avoid overcooking the steak to keep it tender and juicy.
Can I use a different type of meat for Philly cheesesteak?
While shaved steak is traditionally used for Philly cheesesteak, you can use other types of meat if you prefer. Thinly sliced beef sirloin or ribeye are popular alternatives. You can also use chicken or even mushrooms as a vegetarian option.
What is shaved steak?
Shaved steak is thinly sliced beef that is typically used in dishes like Philly cheesesteaks. It is cut from a beef roast, such as top round or ribeye, and is sliced very thin to ensure tenderness and quick cooking.