How To Choose: Philly Cheese Steak Vs New York Cheese Steak – Tips And Tricks

The Philly cheese steak and the New York cheese steak are two iconic sandwiches that have been delighting taste buds for decades. While they share some similarities, these sandwiches have distinct characteristics that set them apart. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of these cheesy, beefy sandwiches, exploring their unique flavors, ingredients, and the fierce rivalry that surrounds them.

History: A Tale of Two Cities

The Philly cheese steak has its roots in the bustling streets of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Its origins can be traced back to the early 20th century when Italian immigrants introduced the concept of a hot sandwich filled with thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and onions. The sandwich quickly gained popularity among the working class and became a staple of the city’s culinary scene.

On the other hand, the New York cheese steak emerged in the vibrant streets of New York City. It is believed to have been inspired by the Philly cheese steak, but with a few key differences. The New York version typically uses a thicker cut of steak, and the cheese is often a blend of American and mozzarella. Additionally, the sandwich is often topped with lettuce, tomato, and a tangy mustard sauce.

Ingredients: A Matter of Taste

The Philly cheese steak and the New York cheese steak share some common ingredients, such as thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and onions. However, there are subtle differences that contribute to their unique flavors.

Philly Cheese Steak Ingredients:

• Thinly sliced ribeye steak
• Cheez Whiz or American cheese
• Grilled onions
• Optional toppings: peppers, mushrooms, hot sauce

New York Cheese Steak Ingredients:

• Thickly sliced skirt steak or rib eye steak
• American and mozzarella cheese blend
• Grilled onions
• Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, mustard sauce

Preparation: A Culinary Dance

The preparation of the Philly cheese steak and the New York cheese steak follows a similar process, but with a few variations.

Philly Cheese Steak Preparation:

1. Thinly slice the ribeye steak and season with salt and pepper.
2. Grill the steak on a hot griddle or pan until cooked to your desired doneness.
3. Place the steak on a hoagie roll and top with Cheez Whiz or American cheese.
4. Grill the sandwich until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Add grilled onions and any additional toppings of your choice.

New York Cheese Steak Preparation:

1. Slice the skirt steak or rib eye steak into thick pieces and season with salt and pepper.
2. Grill the steak on a hot griddle or pan until cooked to your desired doneness.
3. Place the steak on a hero roll and top with a blend of American and mozzarella cheese.
4. Grill the sandwich until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Add grilled onions and any additional toppings of your choice, such as lettuce, tomato, and mustard sauce.

Taste: A Duel of Flavors

The Philly cheese steak and the New York cheese steak offer distinct taste experiences that cater to different palates.

Philly Cheese Steak Taste:

• The thinly sliced ribeye steak provides a tender and juicy texture.
• The Cheez Whiz or American cheese adds a creamy and gooey richness.
• The grilled onions impart a sweet and savory flavor.
• The combination of flavors creates a harmonious balance that is both satisfying and addictive.

New York Cheese Steak Taste:

• The thickly sliced steak offers a more substantial and meaty bite.
• The blend of American and mozzarella cheese provides a stretchy and flavorful combination.
• The grilled onions add a caramelized sweetness that complements the steak and cheese.
• The optional toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, and mustard sauce, add a layer of freshness and tanginess.

Cultural Significance: A Culinary Rivalry

The Philly cheese steak and the New York cheese steak have become cultural icons in their respective cities. They represent the vibrant culinary traditions and the unique identities of Philadelphia and New York. The rivalry between these two sandwiches is often playful and good-natured, but it also reflects the deep pride and passion that each city has for its culinary heritage.

Which One Is Better? A Matter of Personal Preference

The question of which sandwich is better, the Philly cheese steak or the New York cheese steak, is a matter of personal preference. There is no right or wrong answer, as both sandwiches offer their own unique charms and flavors. Ultimately, the best way to decide which one you prefer is to try them both and let your taste buds be the judge.

The Bottom Line: A Cheesesteak Odyssey

The Philly cheese steak and the New York cheese steak are two culinary wonders that have captured the hearts and taste buds of sandwich enthusiasts worldwide. Their distinct flavors, ingredients, and cultural significance make them more than just sandwiches; they are symbols of the cities they represent. Whether you prefer the classic simplicity of the Philly cheese steak or the bold flavors of the New York cheese steak, one thing is for sure: these sandwiches are a testament to the creativity and passion that goes into creating truly unforgettable culinary experiences.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

1. What is the difference between Cheez Whiz and American cheese?

Cheez Whiz is a processed cheese product that is made from cheddar cheese, whey, vegetable oil, and emulsifiers. It has a smooth and creamy texture and a mild flavor. American cheese is also a processed cheese product, but it is made from a blend of cheddar, Colby, and Monterey Jack cheeses. It has a firmer texture and a sharper flavor than Cheez Whiz.

2. Why is the New York cheese steak thicker than the Philly cheese steak?

The New York cheese steak typically uses a thicker cut of steak than the Philly cheese steak. This is because the New York version is often served on a hero roll, which is larger than the hoagie roll used for the Philly cheese steak.

3. What is the best way to reheat a Philly cheese steak or New York cheese steak?

The best way to reheat a Philly cheese steak or New York cheese steak is to wrap it in aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sandwich is heated through. You can also reheat the sandwich in a microwave, but be careful not to overcook it, as this can make the bread soggy.