authentic south philly cheese steak recipe step by step

Craving an authentic South Philly cheesesteak but can’t make it to Philadelphia? Fear not! This step-by-step guide will walk you through crafting a classic cheesesteak experience right in your own kitchen. Get ready to savor the iconic flavors of thinly sliced ribeye, melted cheese, and perfectly cooked onions, all nestled in a soft, chewy roll.

Ingredients for the Ultimate South Philly Cheesesteak

Before we dive in, let’s gather the essential ingredients. Quality ingredients are key to replicating that authentic South Philly taste.

The Star of the Show: Ribeye Steak

• 1.5 lbs Ribeye Steak: The king of cheesesteak meat. Look for well-marbled steak for maximum flavor.
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil: For searing the steak.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Season generously!

The Cheesesteak Cheese Dilemma: Cheese Options

Choosing the right cheese is crucial. Here are the classic contenders:

• Provolone: A sharp, flavorful choice.
• American Cheese: The melty, creamy classic.
• Cheese Whiz: For the true Philly experience. Love it or hate it, it’s iconic!
• Amount: Approximately 8-12 slices, or a generous squirt of Cheese Whiz per cheesesteak.

The Supporting Cast: Onions and Rolls

• 1 Large Onion: Yellow or white, thinly sliced.
• 2 Hoagie Rolls: Amoroso’s rolls are the gold standard if you can find them. Otherwise, look for soft, chewy rolls with a slightly crusty exterior.
• Optional: Hot or Sweet Peppers, depending on your preference.

Step-by-Step: Crafting Your South Philly Cheesesteak

Step 1: Preparing the Ribeye

1. Freeze the ribeye for about 30-45 minutes. This makes it easier to slice thinly.
2. Using a sharp knife or meat slicer, slice the ribeye as thinly as possible against the grain. Aim for 1/8-inch thick slices.
3. Season the sliced steak generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cooking the Onions

1. Heat a large flat-top grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add a tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and caramelized. This will take about 15-20 minutes.
4. Remove the onions from the grill and set aside.

Step 3: Cooking the Steak

1. Turn the heat up to high.
2. Add the sliced steak to the hot grill. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
3. Use two spatulas to chop and spread the steak into smaller pieces as it cooks.
4. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the steak is browned and cooked through.

Step 4: The Cheesesteak Assembly

1. Divide the cooked steak into two portions.
2. Place the steak portions close together on the grill.
3. Top each portion with your cheese of choice. If using Cheese Whiz, squirt generously over the steak.
4. Let the cheese melt, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Using a spatula, carefully scrape up one portion of steak and cheese and place it into one of the hoagie rolls. Repeat with the second portion.
6. Top with the caramelized onions.
7. Optional: Add hot or sweet peppers if desired.
8. Cut the cheesesteak in half and serve immediately.

Tips for Cheesesteak Perfection

• Use a hot grill: High heat is crucial for searing the steak quickly and creating a flavorful crust.
• Don’t overcook the steak: You want it browned but still tender.
• Chop the steak well: This makes it easier to eat and distributes the flavor evenly.
• Amoroso’s rolls are key: If you can’t find them, look for a similar soft, chewy roll.
• Experiment with cheese: Find your favorite!

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Authentic Cheesesteak!

Congratulations! You’ve just created an authentic South Philly cheesesteak. Now sit back, relax, and enjoy the taste of Philadelphia. With a little practice, you’ll be making cheesesteaks that rival the best shops in Philly. Don’t forget to adjust the ingredients and toppings to your personal preference. Enjoy!