What To Know
- Despite the ongoing debate, there is no official consensus on whether cream cheese is an acceptable ingredient in a Philly cheesesteak.
- The question of whether a Philly cheesesteak should have cream cheese remains a matter of personal preference.
- The type of cheese used in a Philly cheesesteak is a matter of personal preference.
The iconic Philly cheesesteak, a culinary masterpiece born in the heart of Philadelphia, has captivated taste buds worldwide. However, amidst the tantalizing flavors of thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, a persistent question lingers: does a genuine Philly cheesesteak contain cream cheese?
Origins of the Philly Cheesesteak
The origins of the Philly cheesesteak can be traced back to the early 20th century. In 1930, Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor, is widely credited with creating the dish. Seeking to expand his menu, Olivieri sliced up some steak and cooked it on a griddle, adding it to a roll.
The Role of Cheese
Initially, Olivieri used American cheese, which melted perfectly over the hot steak. However, as the popularity of the cheesesteak grew, other cheese options emerged, including Provolone, Swiss, and Cheez Whiz.
Cream Cheese: A Controversial Addition
In the 1980s, some cheesesteak vendors began experimenting with adding cream cheese to the mix. This unconventional ingredient quickly sparked a heated debate among cheesesteak purists.
Arguments Against Cream Cheese
Traditionalists argue that cream cheese has no place in a genuine Philly cheesesteak. They maintain that the classic combination of steak, melted cheese, and onions is all that is needed to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
Arguments for Cream Cheese
Proponents of cream cheese contend that it adds a creamy richness and tanginess to the cheesesteak. They argue that the cream cheese complements the savory flavors of the steak and cheese, creating a harmonious culinary experience.
The Official Verdict
Despite the ongoing debate, there is no official consensus on whether cream cheese is an acceptable ingredient in a Philly cheesesteak. The decision ultimately rests with the individual’s personal preferences.
Variations and Regional Differences
The Philly cheesesteak has evolved over time, giving rise to numerous variations and regional differences. Some popular variations include:
- Wit Whiz: With Cheez Whiz instead of melted cheese
- Pat’s King of Steaks: With Provolone cheese
- Geno’s Steaks: With American cheese
- South Philly Cheesesteak: With long hots and sharp Provolone
The Perfect Cheesesteak
The key to crafting the perfect cheesesteak lies in using high-quality ingredients and achieving the right balance of flavors. Whether you prefer your cheesesteak with or without cream cheese, make sure to use thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions.
In a nutshell: A Matter of Personal Preference
The question of whether a Philly cheesesteak should have cream cheese remains a matter of personal preference. Traditionalists may opt for a classic cheesesteak without cream cheese, while others may enjoy the added richness and tanginess that it provides. Ultimately, the best cheesesteak is the one that satisfies your taste buds.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Is cream cheese a traditional ingredient in a Philly cheesesteak?
A: No, cream cheese is not a traditional ingredient in a Philly cheesesteak.
Q: What is the best cheese for a Philly cheesesteak?
A: The type of cheese used in a Philly cheesesteak is a matter of personal preference. Popular options include American, Provolone, Swiss, and Cheez Whiz.
Q: What are some popular variations of the Philly cheesesteak?
A: Some popular variations include the Wit Whiz, Pat’s King of Steaks, Geno’s Steaks, and the South Philly Cheesesteak.
Q: How can I make the perfect cheesesteak?
A: Use high-quality ingredients and achieve the right balance of flavors. Focus on using thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions.
Q: Can I use cream cheese in a Philly cheesesteak?
A: Yes, you can add cream cheese to a Philly cheesesteak if you prefer the added richness and tanginess it provides. However, it is not a traditional ingredient.
