Best Bread for Philly Cheesesteak: Our Top 5 Picks
What To Know
- For a more formal event, a French bread or a more artisanal bread could add a touch of elegance.
- Choosing the best bread for a Philly cheesesteak is a crucial step in creating a truly memorable sandwich experience.
- Whether you prefer the classic Italian bread, the iconic Amoroso rolls, or the crispiness of French bread, there is a bread out there that will elevate your cheesesteak to culinary perfection.
The Philly cheesesteak, a beloved American classic, is a symphony of flavors that requires the perfect bread to elevate it to culinary perfection. The bread serves as the foundation for this iconic sandwich, providing a sturdy structure to hold the savory fillings while absorbing their delicious juices. But with so many bread options available, choosing the best bread for a Philly cheesesteak can be a daunting task.
Types of Bread for Philly Cheesesteaks
Italian Bread
Italian bread is a popular choice for Philly cheesesteaks due to its crisp crust and chewy interior. It has a slightly sour flavor that complements the richness of the meat and cheese without overpowering it.
Amoroso Rolls
Amoroso rolls are a specific type of Italian bread that is specially designed for Philly cheesesteaks. They are slightly sweet, with a soft, airy texture that can soak up the juices without becoming soggy.
French Bread
French bread is another classic option for Philly cheesesteaks. It has a long, thin shape with a crispy crust and a chewy interior. While it doesn’t absorb juices as well as Italian bread, its crispiness adds a delightful contrast to the sandwich.
Hoagie Rolls
Hoagie rolls are large, soft rolls that are often used for subs and sandwiches. They have a slightly chewy texture and a neutral flavor that allows the fillings to shine.
Key Characteristics of the Best Bread for Philly Cheesesteaks
Crust
The crust of the bread should be slightly crispy to provide a satisfying crunch. However, it should not be too hard, as it could make the sandwich difficult to eat.
Interior
The interior of the bread should be chewy and slightly dense to support the fillings without becoming soggy. It should also be able to absorb the juices from the meat and cheese without becoming overly saturated.
Size and Shape
The bread should be large enough to hold the fillings comfortably without being too unwieldy. It should also be shaped appropriately for the sandwich, whether it’s a hoagie roll or a long, thin French bread.
Top Recommendations for Philly Cheesesteak Bread
Amoroso Rolls (Philadelphia)
Amoroso rolls are the gold standard for Philly cheesesteaks in the city where they originated. Their soft, airy texture and slightly sweet flavor make them the perfect complement to the savory fillings.
Liscio’s Bakery (Philadelphia)
Liscio’s Bakery is another Philadelphia institution known for its exceptional Italian bread. Their rolls have a crispy crust, a chewy interior, and a slightly sour flavor that adds depth to the sandwich.
Sarcone’s Bakery (Atlantic City, NJ)
Sarcone’s Bakery in Atlantic City is famous for its hoagie rolls. These rolls are soft, chewy, and have a neutral flavor that allows the fillings to take center stage.
DiNic’s (Reading, PA)
DiNic’s in Reading, PA is a family-owned bakery that has been making Italian bread for over 100 years. Their rolls are known for their crispy crust and chewy interior, making them an excellent choice for Philly cheesesteaks.
Campo’s Bakery (Philadelphia)
Campo’s Bakery in Philadelphia is renowned for its crusty French bread. While not as common for Philly cheesesteaks, their bread adds a delightful crispiness to the sandwich.
How to Choose the Best Bread for Your Philly Cheesesteak
Personal Preference
Ultimately, the best bread for a Philly cheesesteak is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer the crispy crunch of French bread, while others enjoy the soft, chewy texture of Italian bread.
Toppings
Consider the toppings you plan to use when selecting the bread. If you prefer a cheesesteak with a lot of juicy toppings, a bread that can absorb those juices without becoming soggy is essential.
Occasion
The occasion can also influence the bread choice. For a casual gathering, a hoagie roll or Italian bread may be sufficient. For a more formal event, a French bread or a more artisanal bread could add a touch of elegance.
Recommendations: The Perfect Bread for Your Philly Cheesesteak Experience
Choosing the best bread for a Philly cheesesteak is a crucial step in creating a truly memorable sandwich experience. Whether you prefer the classic Italian bread, the iconic Amoroso rolls, or the crispiness of French bread, there is a bread out there that will elevate your cheesesteak to culinary perfection. By considering the key characteristics, top recommendations, and your personal preferences, you can find the perfect bread to complement the savory flavors of this American classic.
Common Questions and Answers
What is the most popular bread for Philly cheesesteaks?
Amoroso rolls are the most popular bread for Philly cheesesteaks, especially in Philadelphia where they originated.
What is the difference between an Italian roll and an Amoroso roll?
Amoroso rolls are a specific type of Italian bread that is specially designed for Philly cheesesteaks. They are slightly sweet, with a soft, airy texture that can soak up the juices without becoming soggy.
What type of bread is used for a hoagie?
Hoagie rolls are large, soft rolls that are often used for subs and sandwiches. They have a slightly chewy texture and a neutral flavor that allows the fillings to shine.
Can I use French bread for a Philly cheesesteak?
Yes, you can use French bread for a Philly cheesesteak. It has a long, thin shape with a crispy crust and a chewy interior. While it doesn’t absorb juices as well as Italian bread, its crispiness adds a delightful contrast to the sandwich.
What are some other bread options for Philly cheesesteaks?
Some other bread options for Philly cheesesteaks include:
- Hoagie rolls
- Baguettes
- Ciabatta rolls