Cheesesteak Vs Cheesesteak Hoagie: Deciding Between Two Great Options
What To Know
- According to legend, hot dog vendor Pat Olivieri created the sandwich by grilling thinly sliced steak on a griddle and adding cheese and onions to a long Italian roll.
- The cheesesteak hoagie, on the other hand, is believed to have originated in the 1950s at Geno’s Steaks, a rival cheesesteak shop located just across the street from Pat’s.
- The debate over whether the cheesesteak or the cheesesteak hoagie is the superior sandwich is a matter of personal preference.
The cheesesteak, a beloved sandwich originating from the streets of Philadelphia, has sparked an age-old debate among locals: cheesesteak or cheesesteak hoagie? This culinary rivalry has divided opinions and sparked heated discussions for decades. In this blog post, we delve into the intricacies of this debate, exploring the origins, ingredients, and cultural significance of these two iconic sandwiches.
Origins and History
The cheesesteak emerged in the 1930s at Pat’s King of Steaks in South Philadelphia. According to legend, hot dog vendor Pat Olivieri created the sandwich by grilling thinly sliced steak on a griddle and adding cheese and onions to a long Italian roll. The cheesesteak quickly gained popularity and became a staple of Philadelphia cuisine.
The cheesesteak hoagie, on the other hand, is believed to have originated in the 1950s at Geno’s Steaks, a rival cheesesteak shop located just across the street from Pat’s. The hoagie version differs from the traditional cheesesteak in that it uses a longer, softer roll and typically includes lettuce, tomatoes, and onions as toppings.
Ingredients and Preparation
Cheesesteak:
- Thinly sliced ribeye steak
- Cheese (typically American, Provolone, or Cheez Whiz)
- Onions (grilled or raw)
Cheesesteak Hoagie:
All of the above ingredients, plus:
- Lettuce
- Tomatoes
- Long, soft hoagie roll
The steak is grilled on a griddle until cooked to the desired doneness. The cheese is then melted over the steak, and the onions are added. In the case of a cheesesteak hoagie, the lettuce and tomatoes are added last.
Cultural Significance
Both the cheesesteak and the cheesesteak hoagie have become deeply ingrained in Philadelphia culture. They are beloved by locals and tourists alike and have been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and songs.
The cheesesteak has been recognized as an official symbol of Philadelphia by the city council. It is served at sporting events, festivals, and countless restaurants throughout the city.
Variations and Regional Differences
Over the years, many variations of the cheesesteak and cheesesteak hoagie have emerged. Some popular variations include:
- Pizza steak: A cheesesteak topped with pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese
- Chicken cheesesteak: A cheesesteak made with grilled chicken instead of steak
- Pork roll cheesesteak: A cheesesteak made with thinly sliced pork roll instead of steak
- Mushroom cheesesteak: A cheesesteak topped with grilled mushrooms
The Great Debate: Cheesesteak vs Cheesesteak Hoagie
The debate over whether the cheesesteak or the cheesesteak hoagie is the superior sandwich is a matter of personal preference. However, there are some key differences between the two that may sway your opinion:
- Size and Shape: The cheesesteak hoagie is typically larger and has a softer roll than the cheesesteak.
- Toppings: The cheesesteak hoagie typically includes more toppings, such as lettuce, tomatoes, and onions.
- Flavor: The cheesesteak is known for its bold, meaty flavor, while the cheesesteak hoagie has a more balanced flavor profile.
Ultimately, the best way to determine which sandwich you prefer is to try both of them and decide for yourself.
Which is Better: Cheesesteak or Cheesesteak Hoagie?
There is no right or wrong answer to the question of which sandwich is better, the cheesesteak or the cheesesteak hoagie. Both sandwiches have their own unique appeal and offer a delicious taste of Philadelphia cuisine.
If you prefer a larger, more flavorful sandwich with a softer roll, then the cheesesteak hoagie is a great choice. However, if you prefer a smaller, more meaty sandwich with a crispier roll, then the cheesesteak is the way to go.
A Culinary Legacy
Both the cheesesteak and the cheesesteak hoagie are iconic sandwiches that have become synonymous with Philadelphia. They are a testament to the city’s rich culinary history and continue to be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: What is the difference between a cheesesteak and a cheesesteak hoagie?
A: The cheesesteak hoagie is typically larger and has a softer roll than the cheesesteak. It also typically includes more toppings, such as lettuce, tomatoes, and onions.
Q: Which sandwich is better, the cheesesteak or the cheesesteak hoagie?
A: There is no right or wrong answer to this question. Both sandwiches have their own unique appeal and offer a delicious taste of Philadelphia cuisine.
Q: Where can I find the best cheesesteak or cheesesteak hoagie in Philadelphia?
A: There are countless great cheesesteak and cheesesteak hoagie shops in Philadelphia. Some of the most popular include Pat’s King of Steaks, Geno’s Steaks, Jim’s Steaks, and Tony Luke‘s.