How To Season Meat For Philly Cheesesteak

Perfecting the Seasoning for Your Philly Cheesesteak

When it comes to making a delicious Philly cheesesteak, the seasoning of the meat is crucial. The right combination of flavors can take your cheesesteak from good to amazing. Here are some tips for seasoning your meat to perfection:

Choose the Right Cut of Meat

Before you even think about seasoning, it’s important to start with the right cut of meat. Traditionally, Philly cheesesteak is made with thinly sliced ribeye steak. This cut is known for its rich flavor and tender texture, making it the perfect choice for a cheesesteak. If ribeye is not available, you can also use sirloin or top round steak as alternatives.

Prep Your Meat

Before seasoning your meat, it’s essential to prep it properly. Make sure the meat is thinly sliced to ensure quick and even cooking. You can ask your butcher to slice it for you, or if you’re doing it at home, pop the meat in the freezer for about 30 minutes to make it easier to slice thinly.

Seasoning the Meat

Now comes the fun part – seasoning your meat! The key to a great Philly cheesesteak seasoning is simplicity. You want to enhance the natural flavor of the meat without overpowering it. Here’s a simple yet delicious seasoning blend to try:

• Salt and Pepper: A generous amount of salt and black pepper is essential for seasoning the meat. This helps to bring out the natural flavors of the beef.
• Onion and Garlic Powder: These two ingredients add depth and savory flavor to the meat. Sprinkle them liberally over the sliced steak.
• Paprika: For a hint of smokiness and color, a touch of paprika can be added to the seasoning mix.
• Optional Additions: Some people like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra umami flavor. Feel free to experiment with these additional ingredients to suit your taste.

Marinating the Meat (Optional)

While not traditional, some people like to marinate their steak before cooking it. If you choose to do so, a simple marinade of olive oil, soy sauce, and a squeeze of lemon juice can add an extra layer of flavor to the meat. Marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Cooking the Seasoned Meat

Once your meat is seasoned to perfection, it’s time to cook it. In a hot skillet or griddle, quickly sear the thinly sliced steak until it’s cooked to your desired level of doneness. Avoid overcooking the meat to keep it tender and juicy.

Conclusion

Seasoning the meat for a Philly cheesesteak is a simple yet crucial step in creating a mouthwatering sandwich. By choosing the right cut of meat, using a well-balanced seasoning blend, and cooking it just right, you can enjoy a delicious homemade Philly cheesesteak that rivals those from the famous Philadelphia eateries.

Experiment with different seasonings and find the perfect blend that suits your taste. Whether you prefer it simple with just salt and pepper, or like to add a bit of spice, the key is to let the natural flavor of the meat shine through. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of seasoning meat for a perfect Philly cheesesteak.