What To Know
- Flat iron steak is also known for its affordability, making it a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive cuts of steak.
- Flat iron steak is naturally tender, making it a great option for slicing thinly, which is essential for a classic Philly cheesesteak.
- The marbling in flat iron steak gives it a rich and beefy flavor that complements the other ingredients in a Philly cheesesteak.
The iconic Philly cheesesteak, a beloved culinary creation from the City of Brotherly Love, is a symphony of flavors and textures. The tender, thinly sliced steak, the gooey melted cheese, and the savory onions all come together to create a sandwich that is both satisfying and indulgent. But can you use flat iron steak for a Philly cheesesteak? The answer is a resounding yes!
What is Flat Iron Steak?
Flat iron steak is a cut of beef that comes from the shoulder of the cow. It is a relatively lean cut, with a good amount of marbling, which gives it a tender and flavorful texture. Flat iron steak is also known for its affordability, making it a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive cuts of steak.
Why Use Flat Iron Steak for Philly Cheesesteak?
There are several reasons why flat iron steak is an excellent choice for Philly cheesesteaks:
- Tenderness: Flat iron steak is naturally tender, making it a great option for slicing thinly, which is essential for a classic Philly cheesesteak.
- Flavor: The marbling in flat iron steak gives it a rich and beefy flavor that complements the other ingredients in a Philly cheesesteak.
- Affordability: Compared to other cuts of steak, flat iron steak is relatively affordable, making it a great value for your money.
How to Prepare Flat Iron Steak for Philly Cheesesteak
Preparing flat iron steak for a Philly cheesesteak is a simple process:
1. Season the steak: Season the flat iron steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Grill or pan-fry: Grill or pan-fry the steak over medium-high heat until it reaches your desired doneness. For a classic Philly cheesesteak, cook the steak to medium-rare or medium.
3. Slice thinly: Once the steak is cooked, slice it thinly against the grain.
The Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Recipe
To make the perfect Philly cheesesteak with flat iron steak, you will need:
- 1 pound flat iron steak
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- 4 hoagie rolls
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the flat iron steak with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired doneness.
4. Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes.
5. While the steak is resting, sauté the onions in the same pan until they are softened and caramelized.
6. Slice the steak thinly against the grain.
7. Place the steak and onions on the hoagie rolls and top with provolone cheese.
8. Broil or grill the sandwiches until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Variations on the Classic
The classic Philly cheesesteak is a delicious and iconic sandwich, but there are many variations that you can try:
- Cheese sauce: Instead of using sliced cheese, you can make a cheese sauce by melting cheese with milk and butter.
- Toppings: You can add your favorite toppings to your Philly cheesesteak, such as mushrooms, peppers, or bacon.
- Bread: You can use different types of bread for your Philly cheesesteak, such as a French roll or a sourdough roll.
Tips for the Best Philly Cheesesteak
Here are a few tips for making the best Philly cheesesteak possible:
- Use high-quality ingredients. The better the ingredients, the better the sandwich will be.
- Slice the steak thinly. This will help the steak to cook evenly and will make it easier to eat.
- Don’t overcook the steak. Overcooked steak will be tough and chewy.
- Use plenty of cheese. The cheese is one of the most important parts of a Philly cheesesteak, so don’t be stingy.
- Serve the Philly cheesesteak immediately. The sandwich is best when it is hot and fresh.
Alternatives to Flat Iron Steak
While flat iron steak is an excellent choice for Philly cheesesteaks, there are other cuts of steak that you can use:
- Ribeye steak: Ribeye steak is a more expensive cut of steak, but it is also more flavorful and tender.
- Strip steak: Strip steak is a leaner cut of steak than ribeye, but it is still tender and flavorful.
- Skirt steak: Skirt steak is a thin, flavorful cut of steak that is best cooked quickly over high heat.
Wrap-Up: The Verdict
So, can you use flat iron steak for Philly cheesesteak? Absolutely! Flat iron steak is a tender, flavorful, and affordable cut of steak that is perfect for making a delicious and authentic Philly cheesesteak.
What People Want to Know
1. What is the best way to cook flat iron steak for Philly cheesesteak?
Grill or pan-fry the steak over medium-high heat until it reaches your desired doneness. For a classic Philly cheesesteak, cook the steak to medium-rare or medium.
2. What is the best cheese to use for Philly cheesesteak?
Provolone cheese is the traditional cheese used for Philly cheesesteaks, but you can also use other types of cheese, such as American cheese or cheddar cheese.
3. What are some good toppings for Philly cheesesteak?
Some good toppings for Philly cheesesteaks include mushrooms, peppers, onions, and bacon.
