Philly Cheese Steak

Philly Cheese Steak
Philly Cheese Steak
Wish you were here in Philadelphia, eating a cheese steak. No doubt about it, cheese steak is the quintessential Philly food. To keep the greasy drippings from staining shirts, Philadelphians have learned the "Philly lean," a way of bending forward to the cheese steak rather than bringing it to the mouth. Selfs "Philly lean" features a trimmer cut of meat, less cheese and more peppers so it has about half the calories and a third of the fat of the original — and provides 60 percent of your daily vitamin C needs.
  • Preparing Time: -
  • Total Time: -
  • Served Person: Makes 6 servings
American Sandwich Cheese Onion Pepper Low Fat Kid-Friendly Steak Grill/Barbecue Self Small Plates
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic salt
  • 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 medium onions, sliced very thin
  • 2 green or red sweet bell peppers (or combination), cored, seeded and sliced very thin
  • 2 lb extra-lean beef tenderloin (9 percent fat), sliced very thin
  • 6 slices(1 oz each) part-skim mozzarella
  • 6 soft italian rolls, split

My Philly Cheese Steak Adventure: A Healthier Twist on a Classic

Philadelphia. Just the name conjures up images of cobblestone streets, historical landmarks, and… cheese steaks! As a busy working mom, I don't get to travel as much as I'd like, but when I do, I make the most of it. My recent trip to Philadelphia was no exception. I’d heard so much about the legendary Philly cheese steak, and I knew I had to try one. But let's be honest, the standard Philly cheese steak isn't exactly known for its health benefits. Those massive portions of fatty meat and cheese can be a bit daunting, even for someone who loves a good indulgence.

So, armed with my trusty recipe book and a determination to find a healthier version, I set out to create a Philly cheese steak that wouldn't completely derail my fitness goals. I discovered the secret is all in the ingredients and preparation. Instead of the typical ribeye, I opted for lean beef tenderloin. This simple swap dramatically reduces the fat content without sacrificing flavor. I also used part-skim mozzarella instead of the richer, full-fat variety. These changes, along with adding plenty of colorful bell peppers, resulted in a much lighter yet still incredibly satisfying meal.

The experience of making this healthier Philly cheese steak was more than just about the food. It was about embracing a healthier lifestyle without compromising on the things I love. It's about finding creative ways to enjoy classic dishes while still focusing on wellness. It's a testament to how easy it can be to make delicious, satisfying meals that are also good for you. It proves that you don't have to sacrifice flavor for health. The vibrant colors of the peppers added a visual appeal that mirrored the explosion of flavors in each bite. The tenderloin was surprisingly flavorful, and the part-skim mozzarella provided just the right amount of creamy richness without the heaviness.

One of the things I appreciated most about creating this healthier version was its adaptability. It’s easy to customize to your liking. Want to add more peppers? Go for it! Feel like experimenting with different types of cheese? Absolutely! This recipe is a great starting point for culinary creativity. The simple process of sautéing onions and peppers, then adding the lean beef, and melting the cheese on top is remarkably satisfying, even as a simple weekday dinner.

Moreover, making this meal allowed me to connect with the city's culinary heritage in a way that felt personal and fulfilling. I didn’t just eat a Philly cheese steak; I crafted it, infusing it with my own healthy twist. It was a culinary adventure that blended my love for travel and food with my dedication to a healthier lifestyle.

The Takeaway: Don't let the reputation of a dish intimidate you. With a little creativity and some clever ingredient substitutions, you can enjoy your favorite foods in a healthier way. My healthier Philly cheese steak isn't just a meal; it's a testament to balance, creativity, and the joy of finding healthier alternatives to our beloved comfort foods.

So, whether you're a seasoned foodie, a health-conscious individual, or simply someone who appreciates delicious and manageable recipes, give this healthier Philly cheese steak a try. It's a dish that proves that delicious and healthy can, and should, coexist.

Step-by-step

    • In a large skillet, sauté onions and peppers in oil; add garlic salt and black pepper.
    • Transfer mixture to bowl and set aside.
    • In the same skillet, pan-fry steak until brown but not crispy.
    • Add onions and peppers.
    • Place cheese on meat until slightly melted.
    • Spoon cheese steak, onions, and peppers onto rolls and serve.