When you think of a Philly cheesesteak, your mind probably jumps to the tender slices of beef, the melted cheese, and maybe even the onions. But what often goes unnoticed is the crucial role the roll plays in this iconic sandwich. The bread used in a Philly cheesesteak is just as important as the filling. The roll is the foundation that holds everything together, providing both structure and flavor to the dish. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of rolls traditionally used for a Philly cheesesteak and why they matter so much.
History of the Philly Cheesesteak
Origins of the Philly Cheesesteak
The Philly cheesesteak originated in Philadelphia in the 1930s, with credit often given to Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor who decided to throw some beef on his grill one day. He placed the beef on an Italian roll, and the rest is history. The cheesesteak quickly became a local favorite, and the choice of bread became a topic of debate among aficionados.
Evolution of the Cheesesteak
Over the years, the Philly cheesesteak has evolved, with various vendors adding their own twists to the sandwich. However, one thing has remained constant: the importance of the roll. As the cheesesteak grew in popularity, so did the emphasis on finding the perfect bread to complement the meat and cheese.
The Role of the Roll in a Philly Cheesesteak
The Significance of the Bread
In a Philly cheesesteak, the roll isn’t just a vessel to hold the ingredients. It’s an integral part of the flavor profile. The right roll should be soft yet sturdy, absorbing the juices from the meat without becoming soggy. It should also have a slightly chewy texture that adds to the overall eating experience.
Common Rolls Used Historically
Historically, the rolls used in Philly cheesesteaks have varied depending on availability and personal preference. However, a few types have become staples in the cheesesteak community. These include Amoroso rolls, hoagie rolls, and sometimes even Kaiser rolls.
Types of Rolls Used for a Philly Cheesesteak
Amoroso Rolls
History of Amoroso Bakery
Amoroso rolls are perhaps the most iconic bread used in a Philly cheesesteak. Amoroso’s Baking Company was founded in 1904 in Philadelphia and quickly became a favorite among locals. Their rolls are synonymous with Philly cheesesteaks and are often considered the gold standard.
Characteristics of Amoroso Rolls
Amoroso rolls are known for their perfect balance of softness and chewiness. They have a slightly crisp crust and a soft, airy interior. This texture makes them ideal for holding the juicy beef and melted cheese without falling apart. The rolls are also slightly elongated, making them perfect for the traditional shape of a cheesesteak.
Hoagie Rolls
Differences Between Hoagie Rolls and Others
Hoagie rolls are another popular choice for Philly cheesesteaks. They tend to be a bit firmer than Amoroso rolls, with a slightly denser texture. This makes them ideal for those who prefer a bit more substance in their bread. Hoagie rolls can also be more readily available outside of Philadelphia, making them a common choice for homemade cheesesteaks.
Why Hoagie Rolls are Popular
The popularity of hoagie rolls comes from their versatility. They can hold up to a variety of fillings, not just cheesesteak. This makes them a practical choice for many sandwich lovers. Additionally, hoagie rolls often have a longer shelf life, making them convenient for those who want to prepare their sandwiches in advance.
Kaiser Rolls
Pros and Cons of Using Kaiser Rolls
Kaiser rolls are less traditional but still used by some cheesesteak enthusiasts. They have a firmer, crustier exterior, which can add a nice crunch to the sandwich. However, this can sometimes be a downside if the roll is too hard, as it can overpower the tenderness of the meat. Kaiser rolls are also smaller in size, which might not accommodate a generous filling.
How Kaiser Rolls Affect the Flavor
The flavor of a Kaiser roll is slightly more pronounced than that of an Amoroso or hoagie roll. This can be a plus if you enjoy a bread with more taste, but it can also distract from the flavors of the meat and cheese. For those who prefer a more neutral bread that lets the filling shine, Kaiser rolls might not be the best choice.
French Bread Rolls
Adaptations and Regional Preferences
French bread rolls are sometimes used in regional variations of the Philly cheesesteak. They are typically longer and thinner than other rolls, which can create a different eating experience. The crust is usually crisper, which some people enjoy for the added texture. However, French bread can be more difficult to work with, as it tends to break apart more easily under the weight of the filling.
Texture and Taste Considerations
When using French bread, the texture is a key consideration. The bread’s crispiness can either complement or clash with the softness of the steak, depending on your preference. Additionally, French bread has a slightly sweeter taste, which might not be ideal for all cheesesteak lovers.
Choosing the Right Roll
Softness vs. Crunchiness
One of the most important factors in choosing the right roll for a Philly cheesesteak is the texture. Some people prefer a softer roll that melds with the steak, while others enjoy a bit of crunch from a crustier bread. Your choice will largely depend on personal preference and how you like your sandwich to feel with each bite.
Absorbency
The roll’s ability to absorb the juices from the steak without becoming soggy is crucial. A roll that gets too soggy can ruin the entire sandwich, while a roll that is too dry can make the eating experience less enjoyable. Amoroso rolls strike a good balance, absorbing just the right amount of juice to keep the sandwich flavorful but intact.
Size and Shape
The size and shape of the roll are also important. A roll that is too small won’t hold enough meat, while a roll that is too large can make the sandwich difficult to eat. The ideal roll should be long and narrow, just wide enough to hold the meat without letting it spill out.
How the Roll Complements the Ingredients
The Perfect Bread to Meat Ratio
The bread-to-meat ratio is crucial in a Philly cheesesteak. Too much bread can overshadow the flavor of the meat, while too little can make the sandwich feel unbalanced. The roll should complement the meat, not compete with it. This is why Amoroso rolls are often preferred—they provide just the right amount of bread to balance the richness of the steak.
Impact on the Overall Taste
The roll’s flavor should be subtle enough to let the other ingredients shine. A roll that is too flavorful can detract from the taste of the steak and cheese, while a bland roll might make the sandwich taste flat. The goal is to find a roll that enhances the flavors of the filling without overpowering them.
Regional Variations of Philly Cheesesteak Rolls
Philadelphia Original
In Philadelphia, the original home of the cheesesteak, Amoroso rolls are the standard. These rolls are so integral to the local cheesesteak experience that many Philly natives believe a cheesesteak isn’t authentic without them. The slight chewiness and subtle flavor of the Amoroso roll are what many consider the perfect complement to the tender steak and melted cheese.
New York Variations
In New York, the rolls used for cheesesteaks can vary widely. Hoagie rolls are common, but some places use softer rolls similar to those used for Italian sandwiches. The flavor profile in New York tends to be a bit different, with more emphasis on the bread, which can sometimes overshadow the steak.
West Coast Influence
On the West Coast, you might find a wider variety of rolls used for cheesesteaks. French bread is popular in some areas, adding a West Coast twist to the traditional sandwich. The rolls tend to be crisper, with a slight sweetness that complements the savory filling. However, this can be a departure from the original Philly cheesesteak experience, which some purists might not appreciate.
Popular Philly Cheesesteak Joints and Their Roll Choices
Pat’s King of Steaks
Pat’s King of Steaks, one of the original purveyors of the Philly cheesesteak, uses Amoroso rolls. The choice of roll is a big part of what makes their cheesesteaks so popular. The roll’s texture and flavor perfectly complement the tender steak and gooey cheese, making for an unforgettable eating experience.
Geno’s Steaks
Geno’s Steaks, another legendary cheesesteak spot in Philadelphia, also uses Amoroso rolls. Geno’s is known for its rivalry with Pat’s, but when it comes to the roll, both places agree that Amoroso is the way to go. The consistency in roll choice is a testament to the quality and popularity of Amoroso rolls in the cheesesteak community.
Jim’s South Street
Jim’s South Street is another well-known cheesesteak joint that opts for Amoroso rolls. What sets Jim’s apart is their attention to detail in how they prepare their rolls. They ensure that the bread is always fresh, slightly toasted on the outside to give it a bit of crunch, but still soft and chewy on the inside.
Homemade Philly Cheesesteak Rolls
Recipe for a Basic Philly Cheesesteak Roll
Making your own rolls at home can be a rewarding experience. Here’s a basic recipe for homemade Philly cheesesteak rolls:
Ingredients:
- 4 cups bread flour
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit until frothy.
- Add the flour and salt to a large mixing bowl. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for about an hour, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 6-8 pieces. Shape each piece into a long, narrow roll.
- Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let them rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Let the rolls cool before slicing and using them for your cheesesteaks.
Tips for Perfecting the Roll at Home
To get the best results, pay attention to the dough’s texture. It should be slightly sticky but not too wet. If the dough is too dry, your rolls will be tough; if too wet, they might not hold their shape. Also, consider brushing the tops with a little melted butter before baking for a softer crust.
Pairing the Cheesesteak with Other Foods
Best Sides for a Philly Cheesesteak
Philly cheesesteaks are often served with sides like fries, onion rings, or even a simple salad. Fries are the most traditional accompaniment, offering a crunchy contrast to the soft sandwich. Onion rings add an extra layer of flavor, while a salad can provide a refreshing break from the richness of the cheesesteak.
Drinks that Complement the Cheesesteak
When it comes to drinks, a cold beer is a classic choice. The carbonation and bitterness of the beer help cut through the richness of the meat and cheese. If you’re not a beer drinker, a soda can also work well, offering sweetness to balance the savory sandwich.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Roll
Using the Wrong Bread Type
Not all bread is created equal when it comes to cheesesteaks. Using a bread that’s too soft, like a standard sandwich loaf, can result in a soggy mess. On the other hand, bread that’s too hard can make the sandwich difficult to eat.
Overloading the Roll
It’s tempting to stuff as much meat and cheese into the roll as possible, but this can lead to an unbalanced sandwich. Overloading the roll can cause it to fall apart, making the sandwich difficult to enjoy. The key is to find the right balance of ingredients and bread to ensure each bite is satisfying.
Conclusion
The roll used in a Philly cheesesteak is more than just a delivery system for the meat and cheese. It’s a crucial component that can make or break the sandwich. Whether you prefer a traditional Amoroso roll, a hoagie roll, or even something a little different, the key is to find a bread that complements the flavors and textures of the filling. By understanding the role of the roll, you can elevate your cheesesteak experience to new heights.
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BY ADRIAN