The Philly cheesesteak egg roll is a delightful fusion of two beloved comfort foods: the classic Philly cheesesteak and the universally loved egg roll. This culinary creation has been making waves in kitchens and restaurants across the United States. But who exactly makes these delicious appetizers, and how can you create them at home? In this article, we’ll dive into the origins, explore the popular creators, and provide you with a detailed, easy-to-follow recipe to make your own Philly cheesesteak egg rolls.
The Origins of Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
The Philly cheesesteak has been a staple in American cuisine since the 1930s, with its roots firmly planted in Philadelphia. Traditionally made with thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, the cheesesteak is a sandwich that has become synonymous with the city. The egg roll, on the other hand, has its origins in Chinese cuisine and has been adapted into various forms in American cooking.
Combining these two dishes seems like an unlikely pairing, but the result is nothing short of spectacular. The idea of wrapping the savory, cheesy filling of a Philly cheesesteak in a crispy egg roll wrapper is a testament to the creativity in American fusion cuisine.
Who Makes Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls?
Philly cheesesteak egg rolls have become popular in both home kitchens and restaurants alike. Several notable chefs and restaurants have put their spin on this dish, making it a trendy appetizer. Here are some of the most famous creators:
- Tony Luke’s – A well-known Philadelphia cheesesteak restaurant, Tony Luke’s is famous for its traditional cheesesteaks. They have also experimented with various forms of cheesesteak, including the egg roll.
- Cheesecake Factory – Known for its extensive menu, Cheesecake Factory offers a version of Philly cheesesteak egg rolls as a popular appetizer, bringing this fusion dish to a broader audience.
- Food Network Stars – Several Food Network chefs have featured Philly cheesesteak egg rolls in their shows, further popularizing the dish. Their versions often include unique twists, such as adding bell peppers or spicy sauces.
- Local Philadelphia Diners – Many diners and small eateries in Philadelphia have adopted this dish, adding their flair to the recipe. These local spots are often the hidden gems for finding the best Philly cheesesteak egg rolls.
- Home Chefs – With the rise of food blogging and social media, home chefs have also played a significant role in popularizing this dish. Many have shared their versions online, contributing to the growing popularity of Philly cheesesteak egg rolls.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the recipe, gather the following ingredients. These components are essential to creating the perfect Philly cheesesteak egg rolls:
- 1 lb ribeye steak or top round, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
- 8 oz Provolone cheese, sliced or shredded
- 8 oz Cheez Whiz (for a more authentic taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- 1 egg, beaten (for sealing the wrappers)
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Dipping Sauce (Optional):
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp sriracha or hot sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Cook the Steak: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced steak to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté the Onions (and Peppers): In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the chopped onions (and bell peppers, if using) and sauté until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
- Combine Steak and Onions: Once the onions are ready, return the steak to the skillet. Stir to combine. Add the sliced Provolone cheese or Cheez Whiz to the skillet and mix until the cheese is fully melted and evenly distributed. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
- Prepare the Wrappers: Lay out the egg roll wrappers on a clean surface. Keep a small bowl of water nearby to help seal the wrappers.
- Add the Filling: Place 2-3 tablespoons of the steak mixture onto the center of each egg roll wrapper. Be careful not to overfill.
- Roll the Egg Rolls: Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides. Roll the wrapper tightly, sealing the top edge with a little water. Use the beaten egg to seal the wrapper completely.
- Repeat: Repeat the process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Step 3: Fry the Egg Rolls
- Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or large, deep skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Egg Rolls: Carefully place the egg rolls into the hot oil, a few at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional)
- Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, sriracha, and garlic powder. Stir until well combined.
- Serve: Serve the dipping sauce alongside the hot, crispy egg rolls.
Variations and Tips for the Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
- Cheese Choices: While Provolone is the traditional cheese used in a Philly cheesesteak, you can experiment with other cheeses like American, Mozzarella, or Pepper Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Meat Options: Ribeye is the classic choice for a Philly cheesesteak, but you can use other cuts like sirloin or even ground beef. Some creative cooks even use chicken as a leaner option.
- Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian twist, substitute the steak with mushrooms, seitan, or tofu. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to bulk up the filling.
- Baking Instead of Frying: For a healthier version, you can bake the egg rolls instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the egg rolls on a baking sheet, and brush them lightly with oil. Bake for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Freezing for Later: Philly cheesesteak egg rolls can be made ahead of time and frozen for later use. After assembling the egg rolls, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Fry or bake directly from frozen when ready to serve.
Why Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Have Gained Popularity
Philly cheesesteak egg rolls have grown in popularity for several reasons:
- Fusion Appeal: The combination of a classic American sandwich with a beloved Asian appetizer creates an intriguing fusion that appeals to a wide audience.
- Portability: Unlike the traditional Philly cheesesteak, which can be messy, the egg roll version is portable and easy to eat on the go, making it a favorite for parties and events.
- Versatility: This dish is highly customizable, allowing chefs and home cooks to experiment with different fillings, cheeses, and sauces.
- Cultural Relevance: The fusion of different cuisines reflects the melting pot nature of American culinary traditions, where diverse influences come together to create something new and delicious.
The Future of Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
As fusion cuisine continues to evolve, Philly cheesesteak egg rolls are likely to remain a popular item on restaurant menus and in home kitchens. The versatility of this dish means it can easily adapt to new trends, such as incorporating plant-based ingredients or being served with innovative dipping sauces.
With the increasing focus on health-conscious eating, we may also see more baked or air-fried versions of Philly cheesesteak egg rolls, offering a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion
Philly cheesesteak egg rolls are a delicious fusion of two classic dishes, offering a unique and flavorful experience that is both satisfying and versatile. Whether you’re enjoying them as an appetizer at a restaurant or making them at home for a family gathering, these egg rolls are sure to be a hit.
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BY ADRIAN