The Philly cheesesteak is a true American culinary classic, famous for its juicy steak, melted cheese, and deliciously tender roll. While the filling often gets all the attention, the type of roll used is a key component that can make or break a perfect sandwich. A cheesesteak’s roll not only holds all the flavorful ingredients together, but it also adds texture and absorbs the steak’s juicy goodness without falling apart. This article dives deep into the types of rolls traditionally used for Philly cheesesteaks and explores why the right roll is essential for the ultimate cheesesteak experience.
Why the Roll Matters in a Philly Cheesesteak
When you bite into a Philly cheesesteak, the first thing you encounter is the roll. Its texture, structure, and flavor all play a role in creating the perfect bite. A proper roll should be soft enough to soak up the steak’s juices, but sturdy enough to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy or falling apart. For a sandwich as rich and savory as a Philly cheesesteak, the bread needs to complement, not overpower, the meat and cheese. A delicate balance of softness and durability is crucial for holding everything together.
The ideal roll enhances the cheesesteak, acting as a carrier for the steak and melted cheese, allowing the flavors to meld without overshadowing the filling. For those recreating the sandwich at home, selecting the right roll can be a game-changer. A classic example of the perfect roll is the Amoroso roll, which is widely regarded as the quintessential choice for a Philly cheesesteak. To learn more about the Amoroso roll‘s rich history and its importance, visit The History of Amoroso Rolls.
How Rolls Enhance the Cheesesteak Experience
Choosing the right roll is essential for maintaining the integrity of the sandwich. It must have a soft interior to absorb the juices of the steak and cheese while maintaining a slightly crusty exterior that adds a bit of texture. The balance is crucial—if the roll is too soft, it can become soggy, but if it’s too tough, it can make the sandwich difficult to eat.
For those making Philly cheesesteaks at home, it’s worth experimenting with different types of rolls. If you’re interested in making your own rolls, this Homemade Philly Cheesesteak Recipe provides a great starting point to master the art of creating the perfect cheesesteak roll.
The Amoroso Roll: The Gold Standard for Cheesesteak Rolls
When it comes to an authentic Philly cheesesteak, the Amoroso roll stands out as the gold standard. This classic roll, produced by the Amoroso Baking Company in Philadelphia, is known for its perfect balance of softness and crustiness. The interior of the roll is soft and absorbent, allowing it to soak up the flavors of the steak and melted cheese without becoming too soggy. The exterior has a slight crust, offering just the right amount of texture to complement the sandwich’s fillings.
The Amoroso roll has been the go-to bread for Philly cheesesteak shops for decades, and for good reason. Its light, airy crumb and crusty shell make it the ideal vessel for holding all the rich, flavorful ingredients in place. Although Amoroso rolls are iconic in Philadelphia, they are now available nationwide, making it easier to recreate an authentic Philly cheesesteak at home.
Alternative Rolls for Philly Cheesesteak
While the Amoroso roll is considered the quintessential choice, there are several other types of rolls that can also be used to create a delicious Philly cheesesteak. Here are some of the most popular alternatives:
1. Soft Hoagie Rolls
Soft hoagie rolls are commonly used as an alternative to Amoroso rolls, especially in places outside of Philadelphia. These rolls are slightly larger and softer, providing more room for additional toppings like mushrooms, onions, and peppers. Soft hoagie rolls are also known for their ability to soak up the cheesesteak’s juices while maintaining their structure.
Key Characteristics:
- Soft and airy interior.
- Slightly chewy texture that complements the steak and cheese.
- Larger size accommodates more ingredients.
2. Italian Rolls
Some cheesesteak aficionados prefer Italian rolls for their firmer texture and slightly salty flavor. These rolls tend to be heartier than the soft hoagie rolls, making them an ideal choice for those who like a more substantial sandwich. The denser crumb of an Italian roll provides a nice contrast to the tender steak and melted cheese.
Key Characteristics:
- Dense crumb and firm texture.
- Slightly salty flavor enhances the sandwich’s richness.
- Holds up well under heavier toppings.
3. Seeded Rolls
Seeded rolls, which are topped with sesame seeds, offer an additional layer of flavor and crunch. While not as traditional as Amoroso rolls, seeded rolls have become increasingly popular in recent years. The added texture of the seeds complements the tender steak and melted cheese, giving the sandwich a unique twist.
Key Characteristics:
- Sesame seeds add flavor and texture.
- Slightly crunchier than traditional rolls.
- A more adventurous option for cheesesteak lovers.
What to Look for in a Philly Cheesesteak Roll
When selecting a roll for your Philly cheesesteak, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure you get the best possible result. Here’s what to look for:
- Soft, Absorbent Interior: The inside of the roll should be soft and absorbent, allowing it to soak up the steak’s juices without becoming too soggy.
- Crispy Exterior: The roll should have a slightly crispy crust that adds texture to the sandwich.
- Sturdy Construction: The roll needs to be sturdy enough to hold all the ingredients together without falling apart.
- Size and Shape: Traditional cheesesteak rolls are about 8-10 inches long, providing ample room for a generous serving of steak and cheese.
Homemade vs. Store-Bought Rolls: Which is Better?
If you’re making Philly cheesesteaks at home, you might be wondering whether it’s worth making your own rolls or if store-bought options are good enough. Here’s a quick comparison of the two:
Homemade Rolls
Pros:
- Freshness: Homemade rolls are always fresher than store-bought.
- Customization: You can adjust the size, shape, and texture of the rolls to suit your preferences.
Cons:
- Time-Consuming: Making bread from scratch takes time and effort.
- Inconsistent Results: Without practice, homemade rolls may not always turn out perfectly.
Store-Bought Rolls
Pros:
- Convenience: Store-bought rolls are readily available and easy to use.
- Reliable Quality: Popular brands like Amoroso produce high-quality rolls that are perfect for cheesesteaks.
Cons:
- Less Fresh: Store-bought rolls may not have the same freshness as homemade bread.
If you’re looking for a quick and easy solution, store-bought Amoroso rolls are a great option. However, if you enjoy baking, making your own rolls can add a personal touch to your Philly cheesesteak.
Famous Philly Cheesesteak Shops and Their Rolls
Philadelphia is home to some of the most famous cheesesteak shops in the world. Here’s a look at a few iconic establishments and the types of rolls they use:
- Pat’s King of Steaks: Pat’s uses traditional Amoroso rolls, offering a classic cheesesteak experience.
- Geno’s Steaks: Located just across the street from Pat’s, Geno’s also uses Amoroso rolls for their cheesesteaks.
- Jim’s Steaks: Jim’s Steaks is known for using softer hoagie rolls, providing a different texture from Pat’s and Geno’s.
- Tony Luke’s: Tony Luke’s uses heartier Italian rolls for their cheesesteaks, offering a more substantial bread-to-filling ratio.
If you’re visiting Philadelphia, these shops are must-try spots for an authentic cheesesteak experience.
FAQs: What Rolls are Used for Philly Cheesesteaks?
What is the traditional roll for a Philly cheesesteak? The traditional roll for a Philly cheesesteak is the Amoroso roll. This roll is soft and slightly chewy on the inside, with a crusty exterior that holds the sandwich together.
Can I use French bread for a Philly cheesesteak? While French bread can be used, it is not considered authentic. French bread tends to be too crusty and lacks the soft interior that makes the Amoroso roll ideal for a cheesesteak.
Where can I buy authentic Philly cheesesteak rolls? Authentic Amoroso rolls can be purchased online or at select grocery stores across the United States. Many cheesesteak shops also sell rolls for home use.
Should Philly cheesesteak rolls be toasted? Toasting the roll is a personal preference. Some people like a lightly toasted roll for extra texture, while others prefer a soft, untoasted roll for a more traditional experience.
Conclusion
Choosing the right roll for a Philly cheesesteak is just as important as selecting the right cut of steak or type of cheese. Whether you go for the classic Amoroso roll, a soft hoagie roll, or an adventurous seeded roll, the bread should complement the richness of the steak and cheese without overpowering it. With the right roll, you can create a Philly cheesesteak that is both delicious and authentic.
For more information on related recipes, you can explore Pumpkin Banana Loaf or this delightful Earl Grey Cookies Recipe for dessert options to complement your meal.