Philly cheesesteak showdown: mushrooms or no mushrooms? the great debate

The quintessential Philly cheesesteak, a culinary icon of the City of Brotherly Love, has been a subject of debate for decades. One of the most contentious questions surrounding this beloved sandwich is: does a true Philly cheesesteak have mushrooms? This blog post will delve into the history, traditions, and culinary nuances of the Philly cheesesteak, exploring the role of mushrooms in this iconic dish.

The Origins of the Philly Cheesesteak

The origins of the Philly cheesesteak can be traced back to the early 1930s in South Philadelphia. Pat Olivieri, a hot dog vendor, is widely credited with creating the sandwich in 1930 when he added steak to a hot dog roll and topped it with melted cheese. The sandwich quickly gained popularity, and by the 1950s, it had become a staple of Philadelphia’s culinary landscape.

The Traditional Ingredients

Traditionally, a Philly cheesesteak is made with thinly sliced rib-eye steak, melted cheese (typically American, Provolone, or Cheez Whiz), and onions. Some variations may include peppers or other toppings, but mushrooms are not considered a traditional ingredient.

The Mushroom Controversy

Despite the absence of mushrooms in the traditional recipe, some cheesesteak vendors in Philadelphia and beyond have started offering cheesesteaks with mushrooms as an optional topping. This practice has sparked a heated debate among cheesesteak purists, who argue that mushrooms have no place in an authentic Philly cheesesteak.

Arguments Against Mushrooms

Traditionalists maintain that mushrooms alter the flavor and texture of the cheesesteak. They argue that the earthy, umami flavor of mushrooms overpowers the delicate taste of the steak and cheese. Additionally, they contend that mushrooms release moisture, which can make the bread soggy.

Arguments for Mushrooms

Proponents of mushroom cheesesteaks argue that mushrooms add a savory depth of flavor and a satisfying texture to the sandwich. They also maintain that the moisture released by mushrooms helps to keep the bread moist and flavorful.

The Verdict

Ultimately, the question of whether or not a Philly cheesesteak should have mushrooms is a matter of personal preference. There is no definitive answer, and both traditionalists and mushroom enthusiasts have valid arguments.

Variations on the Classic

While mushrooms are not considered a traditional ingredient, there are numerous variations on the classic Philly cheesesteak. Some popular variations include:

• Chicken cheesesteak: Sliced chicken breast replaces the steak.
• Italian cheesesteak: Topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
• Buffalo cheesesteak: Topped with Buffalo sauce and blue cheese dressing.
• Pizza cheesesteak: Topped with pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni.

Final Thoughts: Embracing the Diversity of Taste

The Philly cheesesteak has evolved over time, embracing various interpretations and variations. Whether you prefer a traditional cheesesteak without mushrooms or a more adventurous version with mushrooms, the diversity of flavors and preferences ensures that there is a cheesesteak for every palate.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

1. Is it okay to put mushrooms on a Philly cheesesteak?

Ultimately, it is a matter of personal preference. There is no definitive answer, and both traditionalists and mushroom enthusiasts have valid arguments.

2. What is the best type of mushroom to use on a cheesesteak?

If you choose to add mushrooms to your cheesesteak, sliced white mushrooms are a popular choice.

3. What other toppings can I add to my cheesesteak?

Besides mushrooms, some popular toppings include peppers, onions, lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles.

4. What is the best way to cook a Philly cheesesteak?

Traditionally, a Philly cheesesteak is cooked on a griddle or flat-top grill.

5. What type of bread is used for a Philly cheesesteak?

A traditional Philly cheesesteak is made with a hoagie roll or Italian bread.