William Penn founded the state of Pennsylvania in 1681. Apart from the Liberty Bell, Philadelphia is famous today for the Philly cheesesteak.
The Philadelphia cheesesteak, also known as the Philly cheesesteak, is a staple anywhere that serves sandwiches. This local comfort food has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. It has since become a beloved dish for food lovers all around the world.
Read on for a complete guide to the history of this delicious sandwich!
Origins of the Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly cheesesteak was first created in the 1930s by Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor in South Philadelphia. Pat decided to switch things up and put some sliced steak on his grill.
As the aroma of the cooked steak wafted through the streets, a taxi driver stopped by and asked for a sandwich made with the steak. Pat obliged and the first Philly cheesesteak was born.
The sandwich became a hit with the locals and word quickly spread. This led to the establishment of Pat’s King of Steaks, which still operates as a store here to this day.
The Evolution of the Philly Cheesesteak
As the popularity of the cheesesteak grew, other vendors began to offer their own versions of the sandwich. Some added cheese, while others used different cuts of meat or variations in bread.
Over time, the Philly cheesesteak has evolved into a variety of different styles and variations, each reflecting the tastes and preferences of its makers. You may see versions of the sandwich at a small deli or in a high-end restaurant.
Ingredients of a Philly Cheesesteak
The traditional ingredients of a Philly cheesesteak are:
- Thin-sliced rib-eye steak
- Onions
- Melted cheese
- Soft steak roll
The chef cooks the steak on a grill with onions and seasonings, then tops it with melted cheese and places it inside the roll. Today, there are many variations of the Philly cheesesteak, including different types of cheese, vegetables, and even sauces.
The most common veggies on a Philly cheesesteak are onions and bell peppers.
The Importance of the Steak Roll
A toasted steak roll is an integral part of the Philly cheesesteak. The soft and slightly chewy bread is the perfect vessel for the juicy, flavorful steak and melted cheese.
Many Philly cheesesteak shops have their own unique recipes for the steak roll, which add to the overall flavor and texture of the sandwich.
The Philly Cheesesteak Today
Today, people all over the world enjoy the Philly cheesesteak. Whether you prefer your cheesesteak with cheese sauce, grilled onions, or peppers, there’s a sandwich out there that’s sure to satisfy.
The Philly cheesesteak is a delicious and satisfying meal with a rich history and cultural significance. It has become a true American classic among sandwiches.
The next time you take a bite into a Philly cheesesteak, remember the story of its humble beginnings and the evolution that has made it the beloved dish that it is today. Check out our blog page to learn about other fascinating topics!
