Mind-blowing Truth About Philly Cheesesteak: Does It Have Cream Cheese?
What To Know
- Cream cheese is not a traditional ingredient in a Philly cheesesteak because it does not complement the other flavors of the sandwich.
- While cream cheese is not a traditional ingredient, some variations and regional differences of the Philly cheesesteak may incorporate it.
- While cream cheese may be offered as an optional topping in some cases, it is not an essential ingredient and should not be considered a standard part of the sandwich.
The iconic Philly cheesesteak, a beloved culinary staple of Philadelphia, is a tantalizing sandwich filled with thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions. However, a common misconception has arisen around its ingredients, leading many to wonder: does philly cheesesteak have cream cheese?
The Origins of the Cream Cheese Myth
The misconception likely stems from the fact that some cheesesteak vendors may offer cream cheese as an optional condiment or topping. However, the traditional and authentic Philly cheesesteak does not include cream cheese as an essential ingredient.
The Traditional Ingredients of a Philly Cheesesteak
The classic Philly cheesesteak is made with the following ingredients:
- Thinly sliced ribeye steak
- Melted cheese (typically American, Provolone, or Cheez Whiz)
- Sautéed onions
- Optional toppings: ketchup, mustard, hot peppers
Why Cream Cheese is Not Traditional
Cream cheese is not a traditional ingredient in a Philly cheesesteak because it does not complement the other flavors of the sandwich. The acidity and tanginess of cream cheese would overpower the savory flavors of the steak, onions, and cheese.
Variants and Regional Differences
While cream cheese is not a traditional ingredient, some variations and regional differences of the Philly cheesesteak may incorporate it. For example, some cheesesteak shops in New Jersey may offer a “Jersey cheesesteak” that includes cream cheese as a topping. However, these variations are not considered authentic Philly cheesesteaks.
The Importance of Authenticity
Preserving the authenticity of the Philly cheesesteak is important for maintaining its cultural significance and culinary heritage. Altering the traditional ingredients, such as adding cream cheese, can compromise the integrity of the dish and diminish its reputation as an iconic Philadelphia delicacy.
Wrapping Up
To answer the question definitively: no, Philly cheesesteaks do not traditionally have cream cheese. The authentic Philly cheesesteak is made with thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions. While cream cheese may be offered as an optional topping in some cases, it is not an essential ingredient and should not be considered a standard part of the sandwich.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is cream cheese not used in traditional Philly cheesesteaks?
A: Cream cheese does not complement the savory flavors of the steak, onions, and cheese, and would overpower their taste.
Q: Can I add cream cheese to my Philly cheesesteak?
A: Yes, you can add cream cheese as an optional topping, but it is not considered authentic.
Q: What is the best cheese for a Philly cheesesteak?
A: American, Provolone, or Cheez Whiz are the most commonly used cheeses for Philly cheesesteaks.
Q: What are some popular toppings for Philly cheesesteaks?
A: Ketchup, mustard, hot peppers, and sautéed mushrooms are some popular toppings.
Q: Where can I find the best Philly cheesesteaks?
A: Visit Philadelphia and explore the many cheesesteak shops in the city to find the best ones.
