Introduction
When it comes to fusion cuisine, Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls stand out as a modern twist on a classic American sandwich. By merging the beloved flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the crispy, golden goodness of an egg roll, this dish becomes an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing appetizers for a dinner party, snacks for a game night, or simply indulging in a hearty meal, Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are an excellent choice. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through every step of making these delicious treats at home, along with tips, variations, and more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Filling:
- 1 pound of ribeye steak or sirloin, thinly sliced: To achieve an authentic flavor, the choice of meat is crucial. Ribeye offers the best balance of tenderness and taste due to its marbling.
- 1 large onion, finely chopped: Onions contribute a sweet, savory base to the filling, perfectly complementing the beef.
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped: Green bell peppers provide a fresh, slightly bitter contrast to the richness of the meat and cheese.
- 1 cup of mushrooms, thinly sliced (optional): Mushrooms add an earthy depth to the filling, enhancing the umami flavor.
- 2 cups of shredded provolone cheese: Traditionally, provolone is used for Philly cheesesteaks because it offers a mild, creamy flavor that melts beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce: Additionally, this adds a complex, savory depth to the meat.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the ingredients.
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables and meat.
For the Egg Rolls:
- Egg roll wrappers (about 12-15): These are ideal for encasing the hearty filling while frying up to a golden, crispy perfection.
- 1 egg, beaten: The egg acts as a sealant to keep the egg rolls tightly wrapped.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Choose an oil with a high smoke point, like canola or peanut oil, for deep-frying.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are prepped. For instance, thinly slice the ribeye or sirloin steak. For the best results, consider freezing the meat for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. This technique makes it easier to cut the meat into uniform, thin strips. Next, finely chop the onions and bell peppers, and if you’re using mushrooms, slice them thinly.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
To begin, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Then, add the chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing them until they are soft and slightly caramelized, which takes about 5-7 minutes. If you’re including mushrooms, add them to the skillet after the onions and peppers have softened, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes. Remember to season the vegetables with a pinch of salt and pepper. Afterward, remove the sautéed vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Cook the Steak
Using the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, and increase the heat to high. Now, add the thinly sliced steak to the skillet in a single layer, cooking quickly to sear the meat. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the beef is browned but still tender. Once the steak is cooked, return the sautéed vegetables to the skillet and stir in the Worcestershire sauce. Allow the mixture to cook together for another 2 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined. At this point, taste the filling and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
4. Assemble the Egg Rolls
Now that the filling is ready, lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean, dry surface with one corner pointing towards you, so it resembles a diamond shape. Then, spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the Philly cheesesteak filling onto the center of the wrapper and top with a generous handful of shredded provolone cheese. Next, fold the bottom corner of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides. Brush the top corner with the beaten egg and continue rolling the egg roll tightly until sealed. Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Fry the Egg Rolls
To fry the egg rolls, heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower a few egg rolls into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Fry the egg rolls for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy. Once they are done, remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Serve
Finally, serve the Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls hot, with your favorite dipping sauces on the side. Classic options include ketchup, ranch dressing, or a spicy cheese sauce. These egg rolls are best enjoyed fresh; however, you can keep them warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven if you need to prepare them ahead of time.
Tips for Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
1. Choosing the Right Cheese
While provolone is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other cheeses to suit your taste. For example, American cheese melts beautifully and adds a rich, creamy texture. Additionally, for a more intense flavor, consider using sharp cheddar or even a cheese blend. Whatever you choose, the key is to use a cheese that melts well and complements the savory filling.
2. Avoid Overstuffing the Egg Rolls
It’s tempting to pack as much filling as possible into the egg rolls, but overstuffing can lead to difficulties when frying. If the egg rolls are too full, they may burst open in the oil, causing the filling to spill out and the wrappers to become soggy. Instead, aim for about 2-3 tablespoons of filling per egg roll for the best results.
3. Make Ahead and Freeze
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls can be made ahead of time and frozen for future use. Simply assemble the egg rolls as instructed, but do not fry them. Instead, place the assembled egg rolls on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer the egg rolls to a zip-top freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, fry the egg rolls directly from the freezer—no need to thaw—just increase the frying time by a minute or two.
Variations to Try: Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
1. Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
If you prefer poultry, you can substitute the beef with thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh meat. Follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll have a delicious chicken version of this popular appetizer.
2. Vegetarian Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
For a vegetarian option, omit the meat entirely and double the amount of vegetables. You can add more varieties, such as red bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, to create a hearty, meat-free filling. Additionally, portobello mushrooms are an excellent choice for adding a meaty texture to the vegetarian version.
3. Spicy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
Add a kick to your egg rolls by incorporating some heat. For instance, sauté sliced jalapeños with the onions and bell peppers, or sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes while cooking the steak. For an extra-spicy touch, serve the egg rolls with a side of sriracha or spicy aioli.
Pairing Suggestions: Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
1. Beverages
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls pair well with a variety of beverages. For a classic pairing, serve with a cold beer—lager, pilsner, or a hoppy IPA all work wonderfully. If you prefer wine, opt for a light-bodied red like a Pinot Noir or a crisp white such as Sauvignon Blanc. Furthermore, for non-alcoholic options, iced tea or a refreshing lemonade can help cut through the richness of the egg rolls.
2. Side Dishes
These egg rolls are quite filling on their own, but if you’re serving them as part of a larger meal, consider pairing them with light, fresh side dishes. For example, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or a cucumber salad with dill and lemon would complement the egg rolls without overwhelming the palate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
1. Can I Bake Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake these egg rolls for a healthier option. To do this, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the assembled egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops of the egg rolls with a little vegetable oil and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. While they may not be as crispy as the fried version, they are still delicious and slightly healthier.
2. How Do I Store Leftover Egg Rolls?
If you have leftover egg rolls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until they are warmed through and crispy again. Be sure to avoid microwaving them, as this can make the egg rolls soggy.
3. What Other Dipping Sauces Can I Serve with These Egg Rolls?
While ketchup and ranch dressing are popular choices, you can also get creative with your dipping sauces. For instance, a tangy horseradish sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even a creamy blue cheese dressing would pair well with the savory flavors of the egg rolls. Moreover, for a gourmet touch, try making a homemade aioli or a garlic parmesan dipping sauce.
Nutritional Insights
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are an indulgent treat; however, with a few modifications, you can make them a bit healthier. Consider baking instead of frying, use leaner cuts of beef, and add more vegetables to the filling. If you’re watching your carb intake, think about using low-carb egg roll wrappers or even wrapping the filling in lettuce leaves for a lighter, low-carb alternative.
The Benefits of Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients not only enhances the flavor of the egg rolls but also boosts their nutritional value. Fresh vegetables retain more of their vitamins and minerals, while high-quality meat provides essential proteins and nutrients. By choosing fresh over processed ingredients, you create a healthier, more delicious dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the best of both worlds the iconic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak and the crispy goodness of an egg roll. Whether you’re making them for a party, a family dinner, or just to treat yourself, these egg rolls are sure to be a hit. With plenty of room for customization and various cooking methods, you can tailor this recipe to suit your taste and dietary preferences. So, gather your ingredients, heat up the oil, and get ready to enjoy one of the most satisfying fusion foods you’ll ever make!