The Secret To The Best Marinade For Philly Cheesesteak

The Philly cheesesteak, an iconic sandwich from the streets of Philadelphia, is renowned for its tender, flavorful steak. The secret to a truly exceptional cheesesteak lies in the marinade, which infuses the meat with a symphony of flavors. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the art of creating the perfect marinade for a Philly cheesesteak, ensuring that your next sandwich becomes a culinary masterpiece.

Choosing the Right Steak

The foundation of a great cheesesteak is the steak. Opt for a thinly sliced rib-eye or top round steak for optimal tenderness and flavor absorption.

Ingredients for a Classic Marinade

• 1 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Marinade Instructions

1. Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together all the marinade ingredients until well blended.
2. Add the steak: Place the steak slices in the marinade and ensure they are fully submerged.
3. Marinate for 4-8 hours: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but no longer than 8 hours. The longer the steak marinates, the more flavorful it will become.
4. Drain and grill: Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill or pan-fry the steak to your desired doneness.

Variations on the Classic Marinade

• Spicy Marinade: Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the classic marinade for a fiery kick.
• Herby Marinade: Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped parsley or oregano for a burst of freshness.
• Citrus Marinade: Add 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed orange or lemon juice to the marinade for a tangy twist.

How to Cook the Marinated Steak

Once the steak is marinated, you can cook it using your preferred method:

• Grilling: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat and grill the steak for 3-5 minutes per side or until desired doneness.
• Pan-frying: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the steak for 4-6 minutes per side or until desired doneness.

Assembling the Perfect Cheesesteak

1. Cheese: Choose a classic American cheese or a flavorful provolone cheese for melting goodness.
2. Onions: Sauté thinly sliced onions in a pan until caramelized.
3. Steak: Slice the cooked steak into thin strips.
4. Bread: Use a soft Italian or hoagie roll.

In a nutshell: The Marinade that Makes the Sandwich

The marinade is the unsung hero of a Philly cheesesteak, transforming ordinary steak into a culinary delight. By following the tips and instructions provided in this guide, you can create a marinade that will elevate your cheesesteak to new heights. Experiment with different variations to find the perfect flavor combination that suits your palate.

What You Need to Learn

1. How long can I marinate the steak?
Marinating the steak for 4-8 hours is ideal. Marinating for longer than 8 hours can make the steak tough.

2. Can I use other types of steak?
Yes, you can use flank steak or skirt steak, but they may require a longer marinating time.

3. What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
Substitute Worcestershire sauce with an equal amount of soy sauce and a dash of apple cider vinegar.

4. How do I know when the steak is done cooking?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 135°F; for medium, 145°F; and for medium-well, 155°F.

5. What are some good toppings for a Philly cheesesteak?
Popular toppings include mushrooms, peppers, and hot sauce.