Are you a fan of cheesesteaks? One serving of the Original Philly Cheesesteak (Regular) clocks in at 650 calories. Despite its calorie count, it remains a popular sandwich for locals and tourists alike in Philadelphia.

This iconic sandwich is made with thinly sliced beef, grilled onions, and melted cheese placed in a long hoagie roll. The Original Philly Cheesesteak has become a staple dish in Philadelphia and is enjoyed all over the United States.

In this article, we will explore the history, ingredients, cooking techniques, variations, and cultural significance of the Philly Cheesesteak. We will also discuss some health impacts of consuming this beloved sandwich and recommend some famous cheesesteak shops to visit.

History of the Philly Cheesesteak

The Philly Cheesesteak was invented in the city of Philadelphia in the 1930s. It is said that Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor in Philly, decided to cook some beef instead of his usual hot dogs one day. The aroma of grilled steak caught the attention of a nearby cab driver, who requested his own steak sandwich. Olivieri added some cheese to the sandwich, and the Philly Cheesesteak was born. The sandwich's fame began to spread, and it became a popular dish at local eateries. Today, Philly Cheesesteaks are known all over the US and are a must-try for anyone visiting Philadelphia.

Ingredients of the Original Philly Cheesesteak

The Original Philly Cheesesteak contains thinly sliced beef, sautéed onions, and cheese, all wrapped up in a hoagie roll. The beef used is typically ribeye, sirloin, or top round. The onions are cooked alongside the beef and are a crucial ingredient that adds flavor to the sandwich. The cheese used in the Original Philly Cheesesteak is usually Cheez Whiz, provolone, or American cheese. Cheez Whiz has been the go-to cheese in Philadelphia for decades, but there are other cheese options to choose from if you're not a fan of it.

How to Cook the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak

To cook a Philly Cheesesteak, start by prepping your ingredients. Thinly slice your beef and onions, and heat up your grill or stovetop griddle. Once your grill is heated, add the beef and onions and grill until cooked through. To add the cheese, place it on top of the cooked beef and onions, and cover it until the cheese is melted. Once the cheese is melted, place the mixture into a hoagie roll. Optional toppings include ketchup, mayonnaise, hot peppers, and mushrooms.

The Best Cheeses to Use for Cheesesteaks

While Cheez Whiz is the traditional cheese used in a Philly Cheesesteak, there are many other alternatives to choose from. Provolone and American cheese are the most common cheese choices in restaurants. White American cheese, Swiss cheese, and pepper jack cheese are other options to consider if you're making your sandwich at home. Keep in mind that the type of cheese you use will affect the overall flavor of your sandwich. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite.

Different Variations of the Philly Cheesesteak

While the Original Philly Cheesesteak is made with beef, onions, and cheese, many variations of the sandwich exist. For instance, some restaurants offer chicken or veggie 'cheesesteaks,' which substitute the beef for chicken or vegetables. Other variations include the pizza steak, which features pizza sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, and the Italian cheesesteak, which adds Italian seasonings and toppings like pepperoni and mushrooms to the classic sandwich.

Side Dishes to Pair with a Cheesesteak

The Philly Cheesesteak is a hearty sandwich that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with some tasty side dishes. French fries, onion rings, and sweet potato fries are popular choices. If you're looking for something healthier, consider a side salad or grilled vegetables. Another classic side dish to pair with the Philly Cheesesteak is the soft pretzel. Soft pretzels are a Philly staple, and they pair perfectly with a hot sandwich.

The Cultural Significance of the Philly Cheesesteak

The Philly Cheesesteak is more than just a sandwich - it's a cultural icon of Philadelphia. It's a dish that represents the city's history, diversity, and working-class roots. Locals take pride in their cheesesteak shops, and there is even a Cheesesteak Festival held every year in the city. The sandwich has been featured in movies, TV shows, and songs, helping to spread its fame even further.

How to Order a Cheesesteak in Philly like a Local

If you're visiting Philadelphia, ordering a Philly Cheesesteak like a local is essential for the full experience. The traditional way to order is to specify the type of cheese you want, followed by the meat choice and if you want onions. For example, 'Whiz with' means you want Cheez Whiz with your beef and onions. Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations or request extra toppings, like hot peppers or mushrooms. And remember, 'witout' means no onions!

The Health Impact of Eating Philly Cheesesteaks

Unfortunately, the Philly Cheesesteak is not the healthiest sandwich option. A regular-sized sandwich contains around 650 calories and is high in fat, sodium, and cholesterol. If you're trying to watch your weight or cholesterol levels, consider opting for a smaller portion size or sharing with a friend. Additionally, choosing a leaner cut of meat or a chicken or veggie alternative can help reduce the fat content.

Famous Philly Cheesesteak Shops

There are countless cheesesteak shops throughout Philadelphia, but some stand out from the rest. Pat's King of Steaks and Geno's Steaks, located across the street from each other, are two of the most popular spots in the city. Both shops have been serving up cheesesteaks for over 80 years, and you can't go wrong with either choice. Other famous shops include Jim's Steaks, Dalessandro's Steaks and Hoagies, and Steve's Prince of Steaks. No matter which shop you choose, make sure to come hungry!