Philly Cheesesteak Revolution: Can Swiss Cheese Elevate The Classic?

The Philly cheesesteak, a classic sandwich from the streets of Philadelphia, is a culinary masterpiece that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food enthusiasts worldwide. Featuring thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted cheese, and onions, all nestled in a soft and chewy hoagie roll, this sandwich has become an iconic symbol of the City of Brotherly Love. While the traditional Philly cheesesteak typically uses American, provolone, or Cheez Whiz as its cheese component, there has been some debate over whether Swiss cheese can also be a suitable choice. This blog post delves into the topic of using Swiss cheese on a Philly cheesesteak, exploring its history, culinary merits, and the potential drawbacks.

A Brief History of the Philly Cheesesteak

The origins of the Philly cheesesteak can be traced back to the early 20th century, with various claims to its invention. One popular story attributes its creation to Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor who, in 1930, added thinly sliced steak to his sandwiches. Others credit Joe’s Steak and Soda Shop, also in Philadelphia, for introducing the cheesesteak in the 1940s. Regardless of its exact origins, the cheesesteak quickly gained popularity and spread beyond the borders of Philadelphia, becoming a beloved sandwich enjoyed across the United States and beyond.

The Traditional Philly Cheesesteak: A Matter of Cheese

When it comes to the traditional Philly cheesesteak, the choice of cheese is a matter of great importance. The classic options include American cheese, provolone, and Cheez Whiz, each offering its unique flavor and texture to the sandwich. American cheese, with its mild and creamy taste, provides a gooey consistency that complements the steak and onions. Provolone, with its sharp and nutty flavor, adds a tangy dimension to the sandwich. Cheez Whiz, a processed cheese spread, offers a smooth and velvety texture, melting evenly throughout the sandwich.

The Case for Swiss Cheese: A Culinary Exploration

While not a traditional choice for a Philly cheesesteak, Swiss cheese has gained some traction as an alternative cheese option. Its mild and nutty flavor can provide a subtle yet distinct taste to the sandwich. The holes in Swiss cheese allow the melted cheese to seep into the steak and onions, creating pockets of cheesy goodness. Additionally, Swiss cheese has a relatively high melting point, maintaining its structure even when heated, which can prevent it from becoming overly gooey or runny.

Potential Drawbacks of Using Swiss Cheese

Despite its culinary merits, using Swiss cheese on a Philly cheesesteak may present some potential drawbacks. The mild flavor of Swiss cheese may not be as pronounced as other traditional cheese options, potentially getting lost amidst the bold flavors of the steak and onions. Additionally, the holes in Swiss cheese can make it more difficult to achieve an even distribution of cheese throughout the sandwich, leading to some bites being cheesy while others are not.

The Ultimate Decision: A Matter of Personal Preference

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use Swiss cheese on a Philly cheesesteak is a matter of personal preference. There is no right or wrong answer, as both traditional and alternative cheese options offer their own unique flavor profiles and culinary experiences. For those seeking a classic Philly cheesesteak experience, sticking with American, provolone, or Cheez Whiz is the way to go. However, adventurous eaters may find that Swiss cheese adds a delightful twist to this iconic sandwich.

Variations and Experimentation: Exploring the Possibilities

Beyond the traditional and Swiss cheese options, there are numerous variations and experimental cheese choices that can be explored in the realm of Philly cheesesteaks. Some popular alternatives include:

• White American Cheese: A milder and creamier version of American cheese, offering a subtle cheesiness.

• Cooper Sharp Cheese: A sharp and tangy cheddar cheese that adds a bold flavor to the sandwich.

• Pepper Jack Cheese: A spicy and flavorful cheese that brings a kick to the classic cheesesteak.

• Mozzarella Cheese: A soft and gooey cheese that melts beautifully, providing a stretchy texture.

• Gouda Cheese: A nutty and slightly sweet cheese that adds a complex flavor profile to the sandwich.

The Verdict: Embracing Culinary Diversity

In the world of Philly cheesesteaks, there is no single, definitive answer to the question of whether or not Swiss cheese is an acceptable choice. The beauty lies in the diversity of options and the freedom to explore different flavor combinations. Whether you prefer the traditional cheeses or venture into the realm of alternative choices, the goal is to create a sandwich that satisfies your taste buds and brings you culinary joy. Embrace the spirit of experimentation and let your palate guide you towards the perfect Philly cheesesteak experience.

Questions We Hear a Lot

1. What is the most common cheese used on a Philly cheesesteak?

American, provolone, and Cheez Whiz are the most commonly used cheeses for a traditional Philly cheesesteak.

2. Can I use other types of cheese besides Swiss cheese on a Philly cheesesteak?

Yes, you can experiment with various cheese options, such as white American, Cooper Sharp, pepper jack, mozzarella, and Gouda.

3. What are some tips for melting cheese evenly on a Philly cheesesteak?

Use a cheese that melts well, such as American or provolone. Shred the cheese finely to ensure even distribution. Place the cheese on top of the steak and onions, and cover the sandwich with a lid or foil to help the cheese melt evenly.