authentic south philly cheese steak recipe street style

Introduction: Craving that Real South Philly Cheesesteak?

Forget the imitations! If you’re dreaming of a truly authentic South Philly cheesesteak, the kind you’d grab from a street corner vendor, you’ve come to the right place. This recipe will guide you through every step, from selecting the perfect roll to mastering the iconic “wit or wit’out” onion call. Get ready to experience a taste of Philadelphia that’s as genuine as it gets.

The Anatomy of an Authentic South Philly Cheesesteak

Choosing the Right Roll: The Foundation of Flavor

The roll is arguably as important as the steak itself. It needs to be sturdy enough to hold all that deliciousness without falling apart, yet soft and yielding for that perfect bite. Look for:

• Amoroso’s Rolls: The gold standard. If you can find them, grab them!
• Italian Rolls: A good substitute, look for a long, seeded roll with a slightly crusty exterior and a soft, airy interior.
• Freshness is Key: Avoid rolls that are stale or too dense.

Selecting Your Steak: Ribeye is King

While some variations exist, ribeye is the traditional and most flavorful choice for a South Philly cheesesteak.

• Thinly Sliced: Ask your butcher to slice the ribeye very thinly. If you’re slicing it yourself, partially freeze the steak for easier slicing.
• Shaved Steak: Some butchers sell pre-shaved steak, which is a great option.
• Fat is Flavor: Don’t trim too much fat! The fat renders during cooking and adds richness.

The Cheese: Whiz, Provolone, or American?

The cheese debate is a passionate one in Philly! Here’s a breakdown:

1. Cheese Whiz: The classic choice, offering a smooth, tangy flavor and iconic look.
2. Provolone: A more sophisticated option, providing a sharper, slightly salty taste.
3. American Cheese: A readily available and familiar choice that melts beautifully.

The Onions: Wit or Wit’out?

The famous question! Caramelized onions are essential. Here’s how to do them right:

• Yellow Onions: The traditional choice.
• Thinly Sliced: Slice the onions thinly for even cooking.
• Low and Slow: Cook them over medium-low heat in a little oil until they are soft, golden brown, and caramelized. Patience is key!

The Secret Sauce (Optional, but Recommended!)

Some cheesesteak vendors have their own secret sauce. Here’s a simple and delicious option:

• Ketchup: A small squirt is all you need.
• Hot Sauce: Adds a kick. Frank’s RedHot is a popular choice.
• Yellow Mustard: A touch of tang.

The Authentic South Philly Cheesesteak Recipe

1. Prepare the Onions: Caramelize the onions in a large skillet over medium-low heat with a drizzle of oil. This can take 20-30 minutes, so be patient. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Steak: While the onions are cooking, heat a flat-top griddle or a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little oil, then add the sliced steak. Use a spatula to chop and separate the steak as it cooks.
3. Combine the Steak and Onions: Once the steak is cooked through (about 5-7 minutes), mix it with the caramelized onions.
4. Add the Cheese: Create wells in the steak and onion mixture. Add your cheese of choice to each well. Allow the cheese to melt slightly.
5. Assemble the Cheesesteak: Using your spatula, scoop up a portion of the steak, onions, and melted cheese and place it into your roll.
6. Add Condiments: Add your optional secret sauce (ketchup, hot sauce, mustard) to taste.
7. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your authentic South Philly cheesesteak while it’s hot!

Tips for Cheesesteak Perfection

• Don’t overcrowd the griddle: Cook the steak in batches if necessary to ensure it cooks evenly.
• Use a good spatula: A wide, sturdy spatula is essential for chopping and moving the steak.
• Practice makes perfect: Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t perfect. Keep practicing and you’ll be making amazing cheesesteaks in no time!

Conclusion: Taste the Tradition

With this recipe, you can bring the authentic taste of South Philly cheesesteaks to your own kitchen. From the perfectly crusty roll to the savory steak and melted cheese, every element contributes to an unforgettable culinary experience. So grab your ingredients, fire up the griddle, and get ready to create a cheesesteak that would make any Philadelphian proud!