philly cheese steak with mushrooms and onions for picky eaters

Introduction

Is there anything more iconic than a Philly Cheesesteak? But what happens when picky eaters enter the picture? Fear not! We’re here to show you how to adapt this classic sandwich, specifically adding mushrooms and onions, in a way that even the most discerning palates will enjoy. This guide focuses on building flavor subtly and offering customizable options to ensure everyone at the table enjoys a taste of Philadelphia.

Mastering the Philly Cheesesteak for Picky Eaters: Mushrooms and Onions Included!

Choosing the Right Ingredients

The foundation of a great cheesesteak is quality ingredients. Here’s what to consider:

• Steak: Opt for thinly sliced ribeye. It’s flavorful and cooks quickly. Ask your butcher to slice it thinly, or partially freeze it and slice it yourself for easier handling.
• Cheese: Provolone is the traditional choice, known for its mild flavor and excellent melting properties. For the truly picky, consider using a mild cheddar or even a cheese sauce if that’s preferred.
• Roll: A good, sturdy roll is crucial. Amoroso rolls are the gold standard, but any good Italian roll will work. It needs to be able to hold all the filling without falling apart.
• Mushrooms: Cremini (baby bella) mushrooms offer a subtle, earthy flavor. Avoid overpowering the sandwich with stronger varieties like shiitake.
• Onions: Yellow onions are the classic choice for their sweetness. Caramelizing them properly mellows their flavor and removes any harshness.

Preparing the Mushrooms and Onions for Maximum Appeal

The key to getting picky eaters to accept mushrooms and onions is to prepare them in a way that minimizes their strong flavors and textures:

1. Dice, Don’t Slice: Finely dice the onions and mushrooms. Smaller pieces integrate better into the sandwich and are less noticeable for texture-sensitive eaters.
2. Caramelize Slowly: Caramelizing onions properly takes time. Cook them over low heat for at least 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are a deep golden brown and very soft. This process brings out their natural sweetness and minimizes their sharp, raw flavor.
3. Sauté Mushrooms Separately: Sauté the mushrooms separately from the onions. This allows you to control their doneness and prevent them from becoming soggy. Cook them until they are tender and slightly browned.
4. Season Lightly: Use simple seasonings like salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder. Avoid heavy spices that might overwhelm picky eaters.
5. Consider Pureeing: For extremely picky eaters, consider pureeing a small amount of the caramelized onions and cooked mushrooms and adding it to the cheese sauce or mixing it directly into the steak. This adds subtle flavor without any noticeable texture.

Building the Perfect Picky-Eater-Friendly Cheesesteak

Now comes the fun part! Follow these steps for a successful cheesesteak experience:

• Cook the Steak: Heat a large griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil. Cook the steak in batches, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this will lower the temperature and cause the steak to steam instead of sear.
• Incorporate the Vegetables: Once the steak is nearly cooked, add the caramelized onions and sautéed mushrooms to the pan. Mix everything together well.
• Melt the Cheese: Create small wells in the steak and vegetable mixture. Place the provolone cheese (or your chosen cheese) into the wells. Allow the cheese to melt, then use your spatula to mix it into the steak and vegetables.
• Assemble the Sandwich: Cut the roll lengthwise, leaving one side hinged. Scoop the steak, cheese, mushroom, and onion mixture into the roll.
• Optional Toppings: Offer mild toppings on the side, such as ketchup, mild banana peppers, or a side of extra cheese sauce.

Customization is Key

Remember, the key to pleasing picky eaters is allowing them to customize their cheesesteak:

• Offer Plain Options: Have a plain steak and cheese option available for those who prefer it.
• Separate the Vegetables: Keep the mushrooms and onions separate so eaters can choose to add them or not.
• Cheese Choices: Provide a variety of cheese options to cater to different preferences.

Conclusion

Creating a Philly Cheesesteak that appeals to picky eaters doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. By focusing on quality ingredients, careful preparation, and offering customizable options, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone can enjoy. So, get in the kitchen and start experimenting! You might just be surprised at how much even the pickiest eaters love this modified classic.