The Philly steak, also known as the Philly cheesesteak, is a classic American dish that originates from Philadelphia. It's a delicious combination of thinly sliced steak, onions, and cheese, often served on a hoagie roll. The best way to cook Philly steak meat involves a few simple steps that ensure the steak remains tender and juicy, while the onions caramelize for added flavor.
To begin, let's discuss the key ingredients. Firstly, the steak. A good Philly steak is made with ribeye, strip, or top round steak. These cuts offer a balance of flavor and price. Then, there's the onions. You'll need a large onion for every two steaks to provide a perfect onion-to-meat ratio. Finally, the cheese. Provolone and American cheeses are traditional favorites, but you can experiment with others like Gorgonzola or blue cheese for a unique twist.
Preparing the Steak
As with any steak dish, preparation is key to cooking a perfect Philly steak.
The first step is to ensure your steak is thinly sliced. This can be done at home with a sharp knife, or you can ask your butcher to slice the steak thinly before you bring it home. The thinner the slices, the quicker they cook and the more texture you'll have in your Philly steak.
Freezing the Steak
Believe it or not, freezing the steak for 20-30 minutes before slicing can make it easier to cut. This firms up the steak, reducing the likelihood of tearing. Once the steak is sliced, let it come back to room temperature before cooking.
Seasoning the Steak
Seasoning the steak before cooking helps to build flavor. Start with a liberal sprinkle of salt and pepper. If you're feeling adventurous, you can create a custom spice blend with paprika, garlic powder, or a bit of cumin. Remember, less is more when it comes to seasoning. The steak itself should be the star of the show.
Cooking the Steak and Onions
Now that your steak is prepared, it's time to cook it. A rich, savory flavor comes from cooking the steak and onions together in the same skillet.
To start, heat your skillet over high heat. You don't need to add any oil; the fat in the steak will render out and provide plenty of grease for cooking. Once the pan is hot, add your sliced onions. Cook them, stirring occasionally, until they start to caramelize slightly and turn golden brown.
Adding the Steak
Once the onions have started to caramelize, add your steak slices to the pan. Spread them out in an even layer and let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes. This allows the steak to sear and develop a flavorful brown crust.
Stirring and Cooking Through
After a few minutes, stir the steak to cook the other side. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the steak reaches your desired level of doneness. Remember, thinly sliced steak cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
Once the steak is cooked, turn off the heat. The residual heat in the pan will continue to cook the steak slightly and help it to absorb the beefy flavors from the pan. Then, it's time to add the cheese.
Melting the Cheese
For arguably the best part of the Philly steak, lesser-quality cheeses tend to melt and blend more smoothly into the steak and onions. Provolone and American cheeses are popular choices for this reason. Shred or slice the cheese, then evenly distribute it over the steak and onions in the pan.
Cover the pan for a minute or two to allow the cheese to melt. You can also place the pan under the broiler for a minute or two if you prefer a melted cheese topping that's crispy around the edges. Once the cheese is melted, transfer the steak and onions to a warmed roll, and you're ready to serve.
The best way to cook Philly steak meat is simple, straightforward, and results in a delicious, satisfying dish. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or just want to treat yourself to a tasty meal, the Philly steak is sure to impress. So grab your favorite ingredients, fire up your stove, and get cooking. Happy culinary exploring!