The Philly cheesesteak is an iconic sandwich that has captured the hearts of food lovers in Philadelphia and beyond. While the tender steak and melty cheese are essential components, the roll plays an equally important role in creating the perfect sandwich. Without the right roll, even the best steak and cheese can fall flat. In this article, we will dive into the different types of rolls commonly used for Philly cheesesteaks, explore their unique characteristics, and understand why some cheesesteak shops prefer seeded or non-seeded varieties.
Why the Roll Matters in a Philly Cheesesteak
The roll is the backbone of any Philly cheesesteak. A poorly chosen roll can quickly turn a delicious sandwich into a soggy mess or, even worse, rob it of the balance and texture that make it truly great.
Texture and Structure
A perfect cheesesteak roll should be soft on the inside, ensuring easy bites, yet sturdy enough on the outside to support the juicy steak and melted cheese. Additionally, the roll needs to be absorbent without becoming overly soggy, maintaining its form as it soaks up the flavors.
Flavor Absorption
The roll’s ability to absorb juices from the steak and condiments is critical for a balanced sandwich. Rolls that are too soft may absorb too much moisture, leading to a soggy texture. On the other hand, crusty rolls that don’t absorb enough can leave the flavors feeling disjointed.
According to Amoroso’s Baking Co., their signature rolls have been specifically designed to withstand the weight and moisture of a Philly cheesesteak. While they remain soft and chewy on the inside, they provide the necessary structure on the outside. This combination has made Amoroso rolls the go-to choice for many cheesesteak shops in the region.
Meanwhile, Sarcone’s Bakery, which is renowned for its seeded rolls, has developed a cult following. The bakery’s use of sesame seeds and a crusty exterior adds an extra layer of flavor and texture. Sarcone’s Bakery rolls offer a unique experience that many cheesesteak lovers crave.
Popular Rolls Used for Philly Cheesesteaks
Over the years, several types of rolls have become synonymous with Philly cheesesteaks. Below are some of the most popular options:
1. Amoroso Rolls
Amoroso rolls are a staple in many traditional Philly cheesesteak shops. These rolls feature a soft yet chewy texture, making them the ideal vessel for holding juicy steak and melted cheese.
- Texture: Soft on the inside, with a chewy bite.
- Why It’s Popular: The balance of softness and structure allows these rolls to absorb the flavors without turning soggy.
- Where It’s Used: Amoroso rolls are used in most cheesesteak shops across Philadelphia, including many of the city’s most famous establishments.
2. Sarcone’s Seeded Rolls
Sarcone’s Bakery offers a unique option with their sesame-seeded rolls. These rolls have a crusty exterior that provides a satisfying crunch and an additional layer of flavor, which is especially appreciated by those looking for extra texture in their cheesesteak.
- Texture: A crusty exterior complemented by a soft, airy interior.
- Flavor: The sesame seeds introduce a slight nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the richness of the steak and cheese.
- Where It’s Used: Sarcone’s seeded rolls are favored by high-end cheesesteak shops like John’s Roast Pork and Angelo’s Pizzeria.
3. Liscio’s Bakery Rolls
Liscio’s Bakery offers a versatile range of rolls, with options that vary from soft to crusty. The flexibility of Liscio’s rolls makes them a favorite among sandwich makers looking to customize their offerings.
- Texture: Available in both soft and crusty varieties.
- Why It’s Popular: The adaptability of Liscio’s rolls allows sandwich makers to tailor the roll to the style of their cheesesteak.
- Where It’s Used: Liscio’s rolls can be found in many sandwich shops across the Philadelphia region, often chosen for their flexibility in pairing with different types of cheesesteaks.
Seeded vs. Non-Seeded Rolls
Seeded rolls have become a popular option in Philly cheesesteak culture, but are they the best choice for your sandwich? Let’s examine the pros and cons.
The Case for Seeded Rolls
- Texture and Flavor: The sesame seeds add an extra crunch and a slight nuttiness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the sandwich.
- Sturdiness: Seeded rolls often have a sturdier exterior, which helps them maintain their structure under the weight of juicy fillings and condiments.
Because of these characteristics, many top cheesesteak shops choose seeded rolls for their sandwiches, as they offer a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Non-Seeded Rolls
Alternatively, non-seeded rolls, such as those made by Amoroso’s, offer a softer and more neutral flavor profile. This allows the focus to remain on the steak and cheese, without the additional texture of seeds.
Non-seeded rolls are often favored by those seeking a more traditional and straightforward cheesesteak experience, where the bread simply supports the main ingredients.
Soft vs. Sturdy Rolls
The choice between a soft roll and a sturdy roll comes down to personal preference. Each has its own benefits, and the best option will depend on the type of cheesesteak you’re making.
Sturdy Rolls
A sturdy roll features a firm exterior, ensuring it holds its shape even when filled with juicy steak and melted cheese. Here’s why some people prefer this option:
- Crunch Factor: A firmer crust provides a satisfying crunch with every bite.
- Structural Integrity: These rolls are perfect for holding up against heavy ingredients without falling apart.
Popular examples include the seeded rolls from Sarcone’s Bakery and the crustier variations from Liscio’s Bakery.
Soft Rolls
On the other hand, a soft roll is more tender and offers an easier bite. This style creates a seamless blend with the sandwich’s fillings. Here’s why a softer roll might be preferred:
- Comfortable Eating Experience: Soft rolls are easy to bite through, offering a more tender mouthfeel.
- Juice Absorption: These rolls soak up more of the steak’s juices, making each bite flavorful and cohesive.
How the Roll Affects the Cheesesteak
The roll does much more than just hold the sandwich together—it actively interacts with the ingredients to either enhance or detract from the overall experience.
Cheese and the Roll
The type of cheese used in a Philly cheesesteak will influence how the roll interacts with the sandwich. Some cheeses are thicker and require a sturdier roll to provide balance.
- Cheez Whiz: This processed cheese pairs well with soft rolls, as it spreads easily and blends into the bread.
- Provolone and American Cheese: These denser cheeses are better suited to sturdier rolls, which can support their richness without collapsing.
Steak and the Roll
The cut of steak also plays a role in determining the best roll for the cheesesteak. For example, ribeye is one of the most common cuts used in cheesesteaks due to its juicy and flavorful nature. However, this juiciness can make the sandwich messy. A sturdy roll helps prevent the sandwich from falling apart.
- Ribeye Steak: This juicy cut requires a roll like those from Sarcone’s or Amoroso’s that can handle the moisture.
- Chopped Steak: More finely chopped steak works better with softer rolls, which soak in the juices more evenly.
Internal Linking Opportunities
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- Philly Cheesesteak Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls: An excellent opportunity for related content is linking to Philly Cheesesteak Sliders Hawaiian Rolls. This article can provide readers with ideas for using different types of bread in cheesesteak variations.
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- What Rolls Are Used for Philly Cheesesteaks: Another valuable internal link could be What Rolls Are Used for Philly Cheesesteaks, a piece that dives deeper into roll choices for cheesesteaks, providing additional context.
Conclusion
When it comes to crafting the perfect Philly cheesesteak, the choice of roll is just as critical as the steak and cheese. Whether you prefer a soft, chewy Amoroso roll or a crusty Sarcone’s seeded roll, the roll plays a pivotal role in delivering the flavors and textures that define this iconic sandwich. By selecting the right roll based on personal preference and the type of ingredients you’re using, you can elevate your Philly cheesesteak to new heights.
For more ideas and recipes, check out Philly Cheesesteak Sliders Hawaiian Rolls and experiment with different types of bread to create your own cheesesteak masterpiece.