how to make authentic philly cheese steak near me

Introduction

Craving an authentic Philly cheesesteak but can’t make it to Philadelphia? Don’t worry! You can recreate the iconic sandwich right in your kitchen. This guide will walk you through the steps to make a delicious, genuine Philly cheesesteak, no matter where you are. We’ll cover everything from sourcing the right ingredients to mastering the perfect cooking technique. Get ready for a taste of Philly, right near you!

Finding the Right Ingredients

Choosing the Perfect Steak

The heart of a great cheesesteak is the steak! Here’s what to look for:

• Ribeye: This is the classic choice. It’s well-marbled and flavorful.
• Top Round: A leaner option that’s still tender when thinly sliced.
• Sirloin: Another lean cut, but needs careful cooking to avoid toughness.
• Pre-Sliced Steak: If available, pre-sliced “shaved steak” or “cheesesteak meat” saves time and effort. Look for it in the butcher section.

Tip: Partially freezing the steak for about 30 minutes makes it easier to slice thinly.

Selecting the Right Cheese

Cheese is crucial! Here are the top contenders:

• Provolone: A traditional and popular choice, offering a mild and slightly tangy flavor.
• American Cheese: Known for its melty goodness and creamy texture. Yellow or white are both acceptable.
• Cheese Whiz: A controversial but beloved option for many. If you’re going for the true “street” experience, this is it!

Tip: Use slices or crumbles of cheese for even melting.

Bread is Key

The roll is just as important as the steak and cheese. Look for:

• Amoroso’s Rolls: If you can find them, these are the gold standard. They’re soft, yet sturdy enough to hold all the fillings. You may find them online or at specialty bakeries.
• Italian Rolls: A good substitute if Amoroso’s are unavailable. Choose a roll that’s about 10-12 inches long, with a soft interior and a slightly crusty exterior.

Tip: Lightly toast the roll on the inside to prevent it from getting soggy.

Don’t Forget the Onions (and Peppers!)

Onions are a must! Peppers are optional but common.

• Onions: Yellow onions are the classic choice. Thinly slice them before cooking.
• Peppers (Optional): Green bell peppers are the most common choice. Slice them into strips.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Preparing the Steak

1. Slice the steak: If you’re not using pre-sliced steak, slice the ribeye, top round, or sirloin as thinly as possible against the grain.
2. Season lightly: A little salt, pepper, and garlic powder is all you need.

Cooking the Steak and Onions

1. Heat your cooking surface: A flat-top griddle or a large cast-iron skillet is ideal. Heat it over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the onions: Add a little oil or butter to the hot surface. Add the sliced onions and cook until they’re soft and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the onions from the griddle and set aside.
3. Cook the steak: Add the sliced steak to the hot griddle in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Use a spatula to chop and break up the steak as it cooks. Cook until the steak is browned and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
4. Combine steak and onions: Add the cooked onions back to the griddle and mix them with the steak.
5. Add the cheese: Divide the mixture into portions (about 1/2 lb each, if making large sandwiches). Top each portion with your choice of cheese. Let the cheese melt slightly.

Assembling the Cheesesteak

1. Place the roll: Open the toasted roll and place it next to the steak and cheese on the griddle.
2. Scoop and flip: Use a spatula to scoop up the steak, onions, and melted cheese, and flip it directly into the roll.
3. Serve immediately: Enjoy your homemade Philly cheesesteak!

Where to Find Ingredients “Near Me”

Finding the right ingredients locally is key to an authentic experience. Here’s how:

• Butchers and Meat Markets: These are your best bet for quality ribeye or shaved steak. Search for “butcher shop near me” or “meat market near me.”
• Italian Delis: They often carry Amoroso’s rolls or similar high-quality Italian rolls. Try searching for “Italian deli near me”.
• Specialty Cheese Shops: Explore your options beyond standard grocery store cheese slices. Search “cheese shop near me” for more variety.
• Online Retailers: If you can’t find Amoroso’s rolls locally, you can often order them online.

Conclusion

Making an authentic Philly cheesesteak at home is easier than you think! By using the right ingredients and following these simple steps, you can enjoy a taste of Philadelphia no matter where you are. So, get out there, find those ingredients “near me,” and start cooking! Enjoy your delicious, homemade Philly cheesesteak!