how to make authentic philly cheese steak with cheese whiz

Introduction: The Quest for the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak

Craving an authentic Philly Cheesesteak? Forget imitations! We’re diving deep into the heart of Philadelphia’s iconic sandwich, focusing on the key ingredient that sparks debate and devotion: Cheese Whiz. This isn’t just any sandwich; it’s a culinary experience. This guide will walk you through crafting a genuine cheesesteak that would make any Philadelphian proud.

The Essential Elements of an Authentic Philly Cheesesteak

Choosing the Right Steak

The foundation of any great cheesesteak is the steak. Forget fancy cuts; simplicity reigns supreme here.

• Ribeye is King: Thinly sliced ribeye is the traditional and most flavorful choice.
• Thin Slicing is Crucial: Aim for slices that are 1/8 inch thick or less. This ensures quick cooking and tenderness. Ask your butcher to slice it for you or freeze the ribeye slightly for easier slicing at home.
• Avoid Tough Cuts: Skip leaner, tougher cuts like sirloin. They won’t have the same melt-in-your-mouth texture.

The Roll: A Supporting Actor That Steals the Show

Don’t underestimate the importance of the roll. It needs to be sturdy enough to hold all that meaty goodness and flavorful cheese, but soft enough to sink your teeth into.

• Amoroso’s Rolls (If You Can Get Them): These are the gold standard, imported directly from Philly.
• Italian Rolls: A good, crusty Italian roll with a soft interior is a worthy substitute.
• Avoid Sourdough: The tang of sourdough will clash with the savory flavors of the steak and cheese.
• Toast Lightly: Briefly toasting the roll adds stability and prevents it from getting soggy.

Onions: The Caramelized Complement

The addition of onions is a matter of personal preference, but they are a classic element. Caramelized onions add sweetness and depth of flavor.

• Yellow Onions are Best: Their mild flavor caramelizes beautifully.
• Thinly Sliced: Thinly slice the onions for even cooking.
• Caramelization is Key: Cook the onions low and slow until they are soft, sweet, and golden brown. This process takes time, so be patient.

Cheese Whiz: The Controversial, Yet Iconic, Choice

Here’s where the debate ignites! While other cheeses are acceptable (like provolone or American), Cheese Whiz is the true Philly Cheesesteak purist’s choice. It’s creamy, cheesy, and melts perfectly.

• Embrace the Whiz: Don’t knock it ’til you’ve tried it. Its unique flavor profile is part of what makes a Philly cheesesteak so special.
• Proper Application: Generously slather the whiz over the steak and onions.
• Provolone or American (Alternatives): If you absolutely can’t stomach whiz, provolone or American cheese are acceptable substitutes. Provolone offers a sharper flavor, while American melts beautifully.

The Step-by-Step Guide to Cheesesteak Perfection

1. Prepare the Onions: Caramelize the onions in a large skillet with a little oil or butter over medium-low heat for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Cook the Steak: Heat a large griddle or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little oil or butter. Add the thinly sliced steak in small batches (don’t overcrowd the pan). Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
3. Combine Steak and Onions: Once the steak is cooked, push it to one side of the griddle and add the caramelized onions. Mix them together.
4. Apply the Cheese Whiz: Generously cover the steak and onions with Cheese Whiz. Let it melt slightly.
5. Assemble the Cheesesteak: Using a spatula, scoop up the steak, onions, and melted cheese and transfer it to the toasted roll.
6. Enjoy Immediately: Devour your authentic Philly Cheesesteak while it’s hot and cheesy!

Conclusion: Your Journey to Cheesesteak Mastery

Making an authentic Philly Cheesesteak is a labor of love, but the result is well worth the effort. By following these guidelines and using quality ingredients, you can create a truly memorable sandwich that captures the essence of Philadelphia’s culinary heritage. Don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust the recipe to your own tastes. And remember, the most important ingredient is passion! Enjoy!