Cheesesteak Vs Steak And Cheese: The Quest For The Top
What To Know
- In other parts of the country, the steak and cheese has gained popularity, with variations such as the “Chicago Steak and Cheese” (with giardiniera) and the “Denver Steak and Cheese” (with green chile).
- If you prefer a sandwich with a pronounced beefy flavor, a gooey cheese filling, and a soft bread roll, then the steak and cheese is the way to go.
- If you prefer a sandwich with a harmonious blend of flavors, a crusty Italian roll, and the tangy addition of caramelized onions, then the cheesesteak is the clear winner.
In the realm of sandwich artistry, two culinary titans stand tall: the cheesesteak and the steak and cheese. Both sandwiches share a common bond—tender, thinly sliced steak—but their paths diverge when it comes to the supporting cast. Let’s delve into the nuances of these sandwich legends and determine the true champion.
Anatomy of a Cheesesteak
The cheesesteak, a Philadelphia icon, is a symphony of flavors and textures. At its core lies thinly sliced ribeye steak, seared to perfection on a flat-top grill. The steak is then generously topped with melted cheese, typically American, Provolone, or Cheez Whiz. Onions, sautéed to a caramelized sweetness, add another layer of complexity. The sandwich is typically served on a long, crusty Italian roll, providing the perfect canvas for all the savory ingredients.
Anatomy of a Steak and Cheese
The steak and cheese, while similar in concept to the cheesesteak, boasts its own distinct characteristics. It features thinly sliced steak, often sirloin or top round, cooked on a grill or pan. The cheese, typically melted cheddar or mozzarella, plays a more prominent role in the sandwich, enveloping the steak in a gooey embrace. The sandwich is typically served on a soft, white bread roll, providing a pillowy base for the hearty filling.
The Great Debate: Taste and Texture
Taste: The cheesesteak’s combination of tender steak, melted cheese, and caramelized onions creates a harmonious blend of flavors. The American or Provolone cheese adds a salty tang, while Cheez Whiz offers a creamy richness. The steak and cheese, on the other hand, features a more pronounced beefy flavor, with the cheddar or mozzarella cheese providing a gooey, indulgent touch.
Texture: The cheesesteak’s crusty Italian roll provides a satisfying crunch, contrasting with the tender steak and melted cheese. The caramelized onions add a slight sweetness and a bit of crunch. The steak and cheese’s soft white bread roll provides a more yielding texture, allowing the steak and cheese to take center stage.
Regional Variations
The cheesesteak and steak and cheese have both spawned countless regional variations. In Philadelphia, the cheesesteak reigns supreme, with variations such as the “wit” (with onions) and the “Pat’s King of Steaks” (with Cheez Whiz). In other parts of the country, the steak and cheese has gained popularity, with variations such as the “Chicago Steak and Cheese” (with giardiniera) and the “Denver Steak and Cheese” (with green chile).
Nutritional Value
Both the cheesesteak and steak and cheese are hearty sandwiches that pack a nutritional punch. They provide a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. However, they are also high in calories and sodium. The cheesesteak typically contains more calories due to the use of a crusty Italian roll and the addition of onions. The steak and cheese, with its softer white bread roll, may have slightly fewer calories.
The Verdict: A Matter of Preference
Ultimately, the choice between a cheesesteak and a steak and cheese is a matter of personal preference. Both sandwiches offer their own unique combination of flavors and textures. If you prefer a sandwich with a pronounced beefy flavor, a gooey cheese filling, and a soft bread roll, then the steak and cheese is the way to go. If you prefer a sandwich with a harmonious blend of flavors, a crusty Italian roll, and the tangy addition of caramelized onions, then the cheesesteak is the clear winner.
Beyond the Battle: Other Variations
While the cheesesteak and steak and cheese are the most popular steak sandwiches, there are countless other variations to explore. Here are a few notable contenders:
- French Dip: Thinly sliced roast beef served on a French roll and dipped in a savory jus.
- Roast Beef and Cheddar: Thinly sliced roast beef topped with melted cheddar cheese on a soft white bread roll.
- Philly Cheesesteak: The classic cheesesteak but with the addition of mushrooms.
- Italian Beef: Thinly sliced roast beef topped with giardiniera and melted mozzarella on a French roll.
- Cuban Sandwich: A combination of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Which sandwich has more calories, the cheesesteak or the steak and cheese?
A: The cheesesteak typically has more calories due to the use of a crusty Italian roll and the addition of onions.
Q: Which sandwich is more popular in Philadelphia?
A: The cheesesteak is the more popular sandwich in Philadelphia.
Q: What is the best way to cook the steak for a cheesesteak or steak and cheese?
A: The steak should be thinly sliced and cooked on a flat-top grill or pan over medium-high heat.
Q: What is the best cheese to use for a cheesesteak or steak and cheese?
A: For a cheesesteak, the most popular cheeses are American, Provolone, or Cheez Whiz. For a steak and cheese, cheddar or mozzarella are common choices.
Q: What are some popular regional variations of the cheesesteak and steak and cheese?
A: Some popular regional variations include the “wit” (with onions) cheesesteak in Philadelphia, the “Chicago Steak and Cheese” (with giardiniera), and the “Denver Steak and Cheese” (with green chile).