The Philly cheesesteak, a culinary icon of Philadelphia, has been a topic of debate among food enthusiasts for decades. One of the most contentious issues surrounding this beloved sandwich is the type of cheese used in its preparation. While some claim that a traditional Philly cheesesteak features Cheese Whiz, others argue that this is a misconception. In this article, we will delve into the history of the Philly cheesesteak, explore the role of cheese in its preparation, and examine the evidence for and against the use of Cheese Whiz.
A Brief History of the Philly Cheesesteak
The origins of the Philly cheesesteak are shrouded in mystery, but it is widely accepted that the sandwich was invented in the 1930s by a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri. According to legend, Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll to hungry taxi cab drivers and construction workers in South Philadelphia. One day, a customer asked Olivieri to add some cheese to the sandwich, and the Philly cheesesteak was born.
The Evolution of the Philly Cheesesteak
Over the years, the Philly cheesesteak has undergone significant changes. In the early days, the sandwich featured thinly sliced ribeye steak, sautéed with onions and bell peppers, and served on a crusty Amoroso roll. The cheese of choice was initially provolone, but later, other types of cheese, such as Cheez Whiz and mozzarella, became popular.
The Rise of Cheese Whiz
Cheese Whiz, a processed cheese spread, was introduced in the 1950s by Kraft Foods. It quickly gained popularity as a convenient and affordable alternative to traditional cheese. In the 1960s and 1970s, Cheese Whiz became a staple in many Philadelphia households, and it was often used as a substitute for traditional cheese in Philly cheesesteaks.
The Case for Cheese Whiz
Many Philadelphians claim that a traditional Philly cheesesteak features Cheese Whiz. They argue that the processed cheese spread is an integral part of the sandwich’s flavor and texture. Some even claim that Cheese Whiz is the only type of cheese that can be used in a authentic Philly cheesesteak.
Arguments in Favor of Cheese Whiz
There are several arguments in favor of using Cheese Whiz in a Philly cheesesteak:
- Convenience: Cheese Whiz is easy to apply and melts quickly, making it a convenient option for busy restaurants and food vendors.
- Flavor: Cheese Whiz has a distinctive flavor that is often associated with the Philly cheesesteak.
- Texture: The processed cheese spread adds a creamy texture to the sandwich that is hard to replicate with traditional cheese.
The Case Against Cheese Whiz
Not everyone agrees that Cheese Whiz is the best choice for a Philly cheesesteak. Some argue that the processed cheese spread is too artificial and lacks the rich flavor and texture of traditional cheese.
Arguments Against Cheese Whiz
There are several arguments against using Cheese Whiz in a Philly cheesesteak:
- Authenticity: Some argue that Cheese Whiz is not a traditional cheese and therefore does not belong in a authentic Philly cheesesteak.
- Flavor: Others claim that Cheese Whiz has a bland, artificial flavor that overpowers the other ingredients in the sandwich.
- Texture: The processed cheese spread can be too gooey and overpowering, overwhelming the other textures in the sandwich.
Conclusion
The debate over whether a Philly cheesesteak should feature Cheese Whiz is a contentious one. While some argue that the processed cheese spread is an integral part of the sandwich’s flavor and texture, others claim that it is too artificial and lacks the rich flavor and texture of traditional cheese. Ultimately, the choice of cheese is a matter of personal preference. Whether you prefer the convenience and flavor of Cheese Whiz or the richness and texture of traditional cheese, there is no denying that the Philly cheesesteak is a culinary icon that continues to delight food enthusiasts around the world.
| Cheese Options | Description |
|---|---|
| Cheese Whiz | A processed cheese spread that is easy to apply and melts quickly. |
| Provolone | A traditional cheese that is rich in flavor and texture. |
| Mozzarella | A mild, creamy cheese that is perfect for melting. |
What is a traditional Philly cheesesteak?
A traditional Philly cheesesteak is a sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, typically made with thinly sliced beefsteak and melted cheese on a hoagie roll. The cheese is usually melted to perfection, binding the flavors of the steak and the roll together. The traditional Philly cheesesteak is often associated with the city’s rich culinary history and is a staple of local eateries.
While the traditional Philly cheesesteak is often thought to be made with Cheese Whiz, this is not always the case. In fact, many locals and cheesesteak enthusiasts argue that the authentic Philly cheesesteak is made with provolone or Cheez-It, rather than Cheese Whiz. The debate surrounding the type of cheese used in a traditional Philly cheesesteak is ongoing, with different restaurants and individuals having their own preferences.
Does a traditional Philly cheesesteak really have Cheese Whiz?
The answer to this question is not a simple one. While some restaurants and individuals claim that a traditional Philly cheesesteak is made with Cheese Whiz, others argue that this is not the case. In reality, the type of cheese used in a Philly cheesesteak can vary greatly depending on the restaurant, the region, and personal preference.
Some popular cheesesteak joints in Philadelphia, such as Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks, do offer Cheese Whiz as an option. However, it’s worth noting that these restaurants also offer other types of cheese, such as provolone and mozzarella. Ultimately, whether or not a traditional Philly cheesesteak has Cheese Whiz is a matter of personal opinion and can vary depending on the specific restaurant or recipe.
What is the history of Cheese Whiz in Philly cheesesteaks?
Cheese Whiz has a long history in Philadelphia, dating back to the 1950s when it was first introduced by Kraft Foods. The product quickly gained popularity as a convenient and affordable way to add cheese to sandwiches and other dishes. In the context of the Philly cheesesteak, Cheese Whiz was seen as a way to add a creamy, melted cheese to the sandwich without the need for sliced cheese.
Over time, Cheese Whiz became a staple in many Philly cheesesteak joints, particularly in the city’s South Philadelphia neighborhood. However, it’s worth noting that not all cheesesteak restaurants use Cheese Whiz, and some locals and enthusiasts argue that it’s not a traditional or authentic cheese for the sandwich.
What are some alternative cheeses to Cheese Whiz in a Philly cheesesteak?
There are several alternative cheeses that can be used in a Philly cheesesteak, depending on personal preference and regional tradition. Some popular options include provolone, mozzarella, and Cheez-It. Provolone is a mild, smooth cheese that melts well and adds a rich flavor to the sandwich. Mozzarella is another popular option, with a creamy texture and mild flavor.
Cheez-It is a type of processed cheese that is similar to Cheese Whiz but has a slightly different flavor and texture. It’s a popular option in some Philly cheesesteak joints and is often preferred by locals and enthusiasts who are looking for a more authentic cheese experience.
Can I make a Philly cheesesteak with Cheese Whiz at home?
Yes, it’s easy to make a Philly cheesesteak with Cheese Whiz at home. Simply slice a ribeye or top round steak into thin strips and sauté it in a pan with some oil until it’s browned and cooked through. Then, add a slice of Cheese Whiz to the pan and stir until it’s melted and creamy.
To assemble the sandwich, place the steak and cheese mixture onto a hoagie roll and add any desired toppings, such as sautéed onions or bell peppers. You can also add some marinara sauce or hot peppers to give the sandwich an extra kick.
Is Cheese Whiz a necessary ingredient in a Philly cheesesteak?
No, Cheese Whiz is not a necessary ingredient in a Philly cheesesteak. While it’s a popular option in some restaurants and households, there are many other types of cheese that can be used in its place. In fact, some locals and enthusiasts argue that Cheese Whiz is not a traditional or authentic cheese for the sandwich.
Ultimately, the type of cheese used in a Philly cheesesteak is a matter of personal preference. Whether you prefer Cheese Whiz, provolone, or another type of cheese, the most important thing is to use high-quality ingredients and to cook the sandwich with care and attention to detail.