Mind-blowing Secret: Does Philly Cheesesteak Have Sauce? Find Out Now!
What To Know
- He added thinly sliced ribeye steak, onions, and cheese to a roll, and the rest is history.
- The question of whether a Philly cheesesteak should have sauce is a matter of personal preference.
- Thinly slice the steak and cook it on a hot griddle until it is cooked to your desired doneness.
Introduction:
When it comes to iconic American sandwiches, few can rival the legendary Philly cheesesteak. However, a heated debate has raged for years: does a true Philly cheesesteak have sauce? This article delves into the history, tradition, and ingredients that define this beloved sandwich to settle this culinary conundrum once and for all.
The Origins of the Cheesesteak
The humble cheesesteak emerged in the early 1930s in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. According to legend, Italian immigrant Pat Olivieri created the first cheesesteak at his hot dog stand. He added thinly sliced ribeye steak, onions, and cheese to a roll, and the rest is history.
Traditional Ingredients
The defining ingredients of a classic Philly cheesesteak are as follows:
- Bun: A soft, long roll, usually Italian or Amoroso-style
- Steak: Thinly sliced ribeye steak, cooked on a griddle
- Cheese: American, provolone, or Cheez Whiz
- Onions: Sliced onions, sautéed or grilled
- Salt and pepper: To taste
The Sauce Debate
The question of whether a Philly cheesesteak should have sauce is a matter of personal preference. However, the traditional answer is a resounding no.
Reasons for No Sauce:
- Authenticity: The original cheesesteak did not include sauce, and many purists believe that adding sauce dilutes the classic flavor profile.
- Simplicity: The combination of steak, cheese, onions, and bread is a perfect balance of flavors that does not require additional sauce.
- Texture: Sauce can make the bread soggy and detract from the crispiness of the steak.
Variants with Sauce
While the traditional cheesesteak does not have sauce, there are several popular variants that do. These include:
- Pizza Cheesesteak: Topped with pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni
- Buffalo Cheesesteak: Drizzled with buffalo sauce and blue cheese dressing
- Mushroom Cheesesteak: Sautéed mushrooms and mushroom sauce
- Cheesy Sauce Cheesesteak: Topped with a creamy cheese sauce
Popular Sauces
If you do choose to add sauce to your Philly cheesesteak, the most common options are:
- Ketchup: A classic condiment that adds a sweet and tangy flavor
- Mustard: Yellow or brown mustard adds a sharp and tangy kick
- Mayo: Creamy and slightly acidic, mayo balances the richness of the steak and cheese
- Hot Sauce: For those who like a bit of heat, hot sauce can add a spicy kick
Conclusion: Sauce or No Sauce?
The answer to the question “does philly cheesesteak have sauce” is ultimately up to the individual. If you prefer the classic, traditional flavor profile, then stick with no sauce. However, if you’re looking for a more adventurous take on this iconic sandwich, feel free to experiment with different sauces to find your perfect combination.
FAQ
1. What is the best type of cheese for a Philly cheesesteak?
The most popular cheese options are American, provolone, and Cheez Whiz.
2. Can I use different types of steak for a cheesesteak?
Yes, you can use flank steak, skirt steak, or even chicken or turkey as alternatives to ribeye.
3. What are some other popular toppings for a cheesesteak?
Other popular toppings include mushrooms, peppers, and bacon.
4. How do I cook the steak for a cheesesteak?
Thinly slice the steak and cook it on a hot griddle until it is cooked to your desired doneness.
5. What is the best way to serve a Philly cheesesteak?
Serve the cheesesteak immediately on a soft roll with your desired toppings and sauce (if using).
