Name: Pittsburgh Cheese Steak
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/4 cup fine sugar; 1 tbsp grated Spanish onion; 1 tsp dry mustard; 1/2 tsp celery seeds; 1/2 tsp celery salt; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 cup canola oil; 1/2 medium-sized head of cabbage, finely shredded; 1 large carrot, shredded; 1 pint cherry tomatoes; Canola oil; Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1 clove of garlic, finely chopped; 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 1 tsp finely chopped fresh thyme leaves; 2 Yukon gold potatoes, partially cooked and sliced crosswise (1/4-inch thick); Canola oil; Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 2 boneless rib-eye steaks, 1 1/2-inches thick (at least 1 pound each); 8 slices thinly sliced aged provolone cheese; 1 large loaf of Italian bread, split in half

Are you a fan of hearty sandwiches that are packed with flavor? Look no further than the iconic Pittsburgh Cheese Steak. This delicious creation is a twist on the classic Philly Cheese Steak, offering a unique blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more. In this article, we will delve into the history, ingredients, and preparation of this mouthwatering sandwich.

The History of the Pittsburgh Cheese Steak

Like many great culinary creations, the Pittsburgh Cheese Steak has a humble beginning. It originated in the Steel City, where hardworking individuals needed a substantial meal to fuel their demanding work. The sandwich draws inspiration from the famous Philly Cheese Steak but adds its own twist to make it distinctly Pittsburgh.

The Ingredients

What sets the Pittsburgh Cheese Steak apart from its counterparts is the combination of ingredients. The star of the show is thinly sliced beef, cooked to perfection and piled high on a fresh, soft roll. This is then topped with a generous amount of melty cheese, typically provolone or Cheez Whiz. To add some crunch and tang, sautéed onions and hot or sweet peppers are often included. The combination of these ingredients creates a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy.

Preparation

The preparation of the Pittsburgh Cheese Steak requires skill and precision. The key is to cook the thinly sliced beef quickly over high heat to maintain its tenderness and juiciness. The onions and peppers are sautéed separately, adding layers of flavor to the sandwich. Once all the components are ready, they are assembled on a fresh roll, and the cheese is melted on top to create a gooey, satisfying sandwich.

Serving Suggestions

The Pittsburgh Cheese Steak is a versatile sandwich that can be enjoyed in various ways. For a classic experience, serve it with a side of crispy fries and a cold beverage. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding some unique toppings like pickles or coleslaw to elevate the flavors even further. The possibilities are endless, and you can customize it to suit your taste preferences.

In Conclusion

The Pittsburgh Cheese Steak is a sandwich that embodies the spirit of Pittsburgh - hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. With its unique blend of ingredients and versatile nature, it has become a beloved staple in the city's culinary scene. Whether you're a long-time resident or a visitor, be sure to indulge in this delectable sandwich and experience the taste of Pittsburgh.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use a different type of cheese?: Yes! While provolone and Cheez Whiz are the traditional choices, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese. Cheddar, Swiss, or even blue cheese can add a whole new dimension of flavor to your Pittsburgh Cheese Steak.
. Can I make a vegetarian version?: Absolutely! You can substitute the beef with grilled portobello mushrooms or seitan for a delicious vegetarian alternative. The rest of the ingredients remain the same, ensuring that you still get to enjoy all the flavors of a Pittsburgh Cheese Steak.
. How do I get the beef thinly sliced?: You can ask your local butcher to slice the beef for you, or you can use a sharp knife to slice it yourself. Make sure to freeze the beef for a short while to firm it up, as this makes it easier to achieve thin, even slices.
. Can I add additional toppings?: Absolutely! The beauty of the Pittsburgh Cheese Steak is its versatility. Feel free to add toppings like mushrooms, jalapenos, or even bacon to make it your own. Get creative and have fun with it!
. Can I use a different type of bread?: While a fresh roll is the traditional choice for the Pittsburgh Cheese Steak, you can experiment with different types of bread. Try using a baguette, ciabatta, or even a hoagie roll to give your sandwich a unique twist.
. Can I make a larger batch for a crowd?: Absolutely! Simply adjust the quantities of the ingredients accordingly. The Pittsburgh Cheese Steak is a crowd-pleaser, and making a larger batch is a great option for gatherings or game nights.
. Can I freeze the leftovers?: While it's best to enjoy the Pittsburgh Cheese Steak fresh, you can freeze the leftovers for later. Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator and heat it up in a skillet or oven.
. Can I make it spicy?: Absolutely! If you're a fan of spicy flavors, you can add hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the sautéed onions and peppers. This will give your Pittsburgh Cheese Steak a delightful kick that will keep you coming back for more.