The Philly cheesesteak sub is not just a sandwich, it’s a culinary institution, a symbol of Philadelphia, and a slice of Americana. This iconic delicacy has won the hearts and appetites of food enthusiasts across the globe, thanks to its mouthwatering combination of thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and a long, crusty roll. But how did this beloved sandwich come to be, and what makes it so irresistibly delicious? Mama Mead’s Pizzeria would like to go into the origin and essential elements of the famous Philly cheesesteak sub.
Birth of a Legend; Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich
The story of the Philly cheesesteak begins in the early 1930s in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. According to popular lore, Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor, decided to grill some beef from the butcher and tucked it into an Italian roll. A passing taxi driver caught a whiff, requested his own steak sandwich, and the rest, as they say, is history. Word spread quickly, and soon, Pat opened up Pat’s King of Steaks, which still stands today as one of the epicenters of cheesesteak lore.
Essential Elements of a Philly Cheesesteak Sub
The magic of a Philly cheesesteak lies in its simplicity and the quality of its components. Here are the key elements that define this classic sub:
• The Roll: The foundation of any good cheesesteak, the roll should be long, slightly crusty on the outside, and soft on the inside. It needs to be sturdy enough to hold its contents without falling apart. Amoroso’s rolls are often cited as the gold standard in and around Philadelphia.
• The Meat: Traditionally, the meat used is thinly sliced rib-eye or top round. The choice of rib-eye is popular for its rich flavor and tender texture. The meat is thinly sliced and then quickly grilled at a high temperature to ensure it’s both juicy and slightly caramelized at the edges.
• The Cheese: When it comes to cheese, there’s a bit of contention among purists and innovators alike. The original choice is Cheez Whiz for its creamy texture and sharp taste, perfectly complementing the savory beef. However, many swear by provolone or American cheese for a slightly different but equally delicious experience.
• The Onions: Onions add a sweet and slightly sharp counterpoint to the meat and cheese. Typically, the onions are finely sliced and sautéed until they’re caramelized, adding depth and richness to the sandwich.
• Optional Extras: While a traditionalist might argue that anything beyond these basic components is heresy, variations abound. Some popular additions include mushrooms, peppers, and even marinara sauce, catering to a wide range of palates.
Beyond the Ingredients of a Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly cheesesteak is more than just its ingredients, it’s a testament to the city’s working-class roots and culinary ingenuity. It embodies the spirit of Philadelphia – straightforward, hearty, and unpretentious. The debate over who makes the best cheesesteak in Philly is a point of local pride and an ongoing conversation that engages locals and visitors alike.
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The Philly cheesesteak sub stands as a major achievement in American sandwich culture. Its origin story is a testament to the power of simple, good food to become a culinary legend. Whether you are a purist who insists on Cheez Whiz and onions or an adventurer willing to try all manner of toppings, the key to a great Philly cheesesteak lies in the quality of its ingredients and the love with which it’s made. So, the next time you want to bite into a juicy, cheesy, meaty Philly cheesesteak, come on down to Mama Mead’s Pizzeria and try our Philly cheesesteak sub and other great food today.
