The Philly cheesesteak, a culinary icon of Philadelphia, has been a topic of discussion for decades. While some argue that it’s a staple of the city’s cuisine, others claim that it’s a tourist trap. However, one question has sparked a heated debate among locals and visitors alike: does a traditional Philly cheesesteak have ketchup? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the Philly cheesesteak, explore the different variations, and examine the role of ketchup in this beloved dish.
A Brief History of the Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly cheesesteak has its roots in the 1930s, when a hot dog vendor named Pat Olivieri began serving thinly sliced steak on a hoagie roll in South Philadelphia. According to legend, a taxi cab driver asked Olivieri to add some cheese to the sandwich, and the Philly cheesesteak was born. Olivieri’s restaurant, Pat’s King of Steaks, is still open today and is widely credited as the birthplace of the Philly cheesesteak.
Over the years, the Philly cheesesteak has evolved, with different variations emerging throughout the city. Some restaurants add their own twist to the classic recipe, while others stick to the traditional formula. However, one constant remains: the debate over ketchup.
The Ketchup Conundrum
So, does a traditional Philly cheesesteak have ketchup? The answer is a resounding “no.” In fact, many locals will tell you that putting ketchup on a Philly cheesesteak is a sacrilege. The traditional toppings for a Philly cheesesteak are cheese (Cheez Whiz or provolone), onions, and sometimes bell peppers.
But why the aversion to ketchup? One reason is that ketchup overpowers the flavor of the steak and cheese. A good Philly cheesesteak should have a delicate balance of flavors, with the steak and cheese taking center stage. Ketchup disrupts this balance and adds a sweetness that’s not characteristic of the dish.
Another reason is that ketchup is not a traditional topping for a Philly cheesesteak. In the early days of the dish, ketchup was not a common condiment in Philadelphia. Instead, locals relied on mustard, mayonnaise, and hot peppers to add flavor to their cheesesteaks.
The Rise of Ketchup on the Philly Cheesesteak
So, how did ketchup become a topic of debate in the first place? One reason is the rise of fast food chains and casual restaurants that serve Philly cheesesteaks. These establishments often cater to a broader audience and may offer ketchup as a topping to appease customers who are used to having it on their burgers and fries.
Another reason is the influence of outsiders who are not familiar with the traditional Philly cheesesteak. Visitors to the city may assume that ketchup is a standard topping, just like it is on a burger or hot dog. This has led to a proliferation of ketchup on Philly cheesesteaks, much to the chagrin of locals.
Variations of the Philly Cheesesteak
While the traditional Philly cheesesteak is a staple of the city’s cuisine, there are many variations that have emerged over the years. Some restaurants offer unique twists on the classic recipe, while others cater to specific tastes and dietary preferences.
One popular variation is the “whiz wit,” which features Cheez Whiz and onions. This is a classic combination that’s popular among locals and visitors alike. Another variation is the “provolone without,” which features provolone cheese and no onions.
Some restaurants also offer more adventurous variations, such as the ” buffalo chicken cheesesteak” or the “mushroom Swiss cheesesteak.” These variations often feature unique toppings and sauces that add a new dimension to the classic dish.
Regional Variations
The Philly cheesesteak is not just limited to Philadelphia. In fact, there are many regional variations that have emerged throughout the United States. Some of these variations are inspired by local ingredients and culinary traditions, while others are simply creative twists on the classic recipe.
One popular regional variation is the “Pittsburgh-style cheesesteak,” which features coleslaw and fries on the sandwich. Another variation is the “Chicago-style cheesesteak,” which features giardiniera and melted mozzarella cheese.
These regional variations are a testament to the versatility of the Philly cheesesteak and its ability to adapt to different tastes and culinary traditions.
The Verdict: Does a Philly Cheesesteak Have Ketchup?
So, does a traditional Philly cheesesteak have ketchup? The answer is a resounding “no.” While ketchup may be a popular condiment in some parts of the country, it’s not a traditional topping for a Philly cheesesteak.
In fact, many locals will tell you that putting ketchup on a Philly cheesesteak is a sacrilege. Instead, they recommend sticking to the traditional toppings of cheese, onions, and sometimes bell peppers.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Philly cheesesteak is a culinary experience that’s not to be missed. With its rich history, cultural significance, and delicious flavor, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
So, the next time you’re in Philadelphia, be sure to try a traditional Philly cheesesteak. And remember, no ketchup!
| Traditional Toppings | Non-Traditional Toppings |
|---|---|
| Cheese (Cheez Whiz or provolone) | Ketchup |
| Onions | Mayonnaise |
| Bell peppers | Mustard |
In conclusion, the Philly cheesesteak is a culinary icon that’s steeped in history and tradition. While there may be variations and regional twists, the traditional recipe remains the same. And as for ketchup, it’s best to leave it off and stick to the traditional toppings.
What is the Great Philly Cheesesteak Debate?
The Great Philly Cheesesteak Debate is a long-standing argument among locals and visitors to Philadelphia about the proper way to top a classic Philly cheesesteak. At the center of the debate is the question of whether or not ketchup belongs on a traditional Philly cheesesteak. Some argue that ketchup is a necessary component, while others claim that it’s a sacrilege.
The debate has been ongoing for decades, with some restaurants and vendors taking a firm stance on the issue. Some popular cheesesteak joints in Philadelphia have even gone so far as to post signs warning customers not to ask for ketchup. Despite the strong opinions on both sides, there’s no one “right” answer to the question of whether or not ketchup belongs on a Philly cheesesteak.
What is a traditional Philly cheesesteak?
A traditional Philly cheesesteak is a sandwich made with thinly sliced beefsteak, typically ribeye or top round, that’s been sautéed with onions and bell peppers. The steak is then served on a crusty roll, often an Amoroso roll, and topped with melted cheese, such as Cheez Whiz or provolone. The key to a great Philly cheesesteak is the quality of the ingredients and the way they’re prepared.
In a traditional Philly cheesesteak, the steak is cooked to perfection, with a nice sear on the outside and a tender interior. The onions and bell peppers are sautéed until they’re soft and caramelized, adding a depth of flavor to the sandwich. The cheese is melted to perfection, binding the whole thing together. When it’s all put together, a traditional Philly cheesesteak is a truly delicious and satisfying meal.
Why do some people think ketchup doesn’t belong on a Philly cheesesteak?
Some people believe that ketchup doesn’t belong on a Philly cheesesteak because it alters the flavor profile of the sandwich. They argue that the sweetness of the ketchup overpowers the other ingredients, particularly the steak and cheese. Others claim that ketchup is too messy and can make the sandwich difficult to eat.
Additionally, some locals argue that ketchup is not a traditional topping for a Philly cheesesteak. They claim that the sandwich was originally served without ketchup, and that it’s a more recent innovation. While there’s no concrete evidence to support this claim, it’s clear that many Philadelphians are passionate about their cheesesteaks and want to see them made the “right” way.
Why do some people think ketchup belongs on a Philly cheesesteak?
On the other hand, some people believe that ketchup is a perfectly acceptable topping for a Philly cheesesteak. They argue that the sweetness of the ketchup complements the savory flavors of the steak and cheese, adding a new dimension to the sandwich. Others claim that ketchup is a matter of personal preference, and that it’s up to each individual to decide whether or not to add it to their cheesesteak.
Some people also point out that ketchup is a common topping for many other types of sandwiches, and that there’s no reason why it can’t be used on a Philly cheesesteak. They argue that the debate over ketchup is largely a matter of tradition and cultural identity, and that it’s time to move beyond these constraints and experiment with new toppings and flavor combinations.
What do Philly cheesesteak vendors think about the debate?
Many Philly cheesesteak vendors have strong opinions about the debate over ketchup. Some, like Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks, have taken a firm stance against ketchup, posting signs and warning customers not to ask for it. Others, like Jim’s Steaks and Steve’s Prince of Steaks, are more laid-back, allowing customers to customize their cheesesteaks with ketchup and other toppings.
Despite their differences, most Philly cheesesteak vendors agree that the key to a great cheesesteak is the quality of the ingredients and the way they’re prepared. They’re passionate about their craft, and they want to see their customers enjoy their sandwiches. Whether or not ketchup is involved is secondary to the overall experience of eating a delicious Philly cheesesteak.
Can I still get a Philly cheesesteak with ketchup if I want one?
Yes, you can still get a Philly cheesesteak with ketchup if you want one. While some vendors may discourage it, many others will happily add ketchup to your sandwich if you ask. In fact, some vendors even offer ketchup as a standard topping option, so you can customize your cheesesteak to your heart’s content.
If you’re looking for a Philly cheesesteak with ketchup, you may want to try a vendor that’s more laid-back about toppings. Some popular options include Jim’s Steaks and Steve’s Prince of Steaks, which both offer ketchup as a topping option. You can also try asking your vendor if they’ll add ketchup to your sandwich, even if it’s not on the menu.
What’s the best way to resolve the Great Philly Cheesesteak Debate?
Ultimately, the best way to resolve the Great Philly Cheesesteak Debate is to let each individual decide for themselves whether or not to add ketchup to their cheesesteak. While tradition and cultural identity are important, they shouldn’t dictate how we enjoy our food. By embracing the diversity of opinions and preferences, we can move beyond the debate and focus on what really matters: enjoying a delicious Philly cheesesteak.
Rather than trying to impose our own opinions on others, we should respect each other’s differences and celebrate the diversity of the Philly cheesesteak scene. Whether you’re a ketchup lover or a ketchup hater, there’s a Philly cheesesteak out there for you. So go ahead, try it your way, and enjoy the experience of eating a truly iconic sandwich.