What Are Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls?
Philly cheesesteak egg rolls are a creative spin on the beloved Philadelphia sandwich. They feature tender sliced beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions and peppers, all wrapped up in a crispy egg roll wrapper. This combination offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these mouthwatering egg rolls, gather the following ingredients:
- Beef: Opt for ribeye steak for its tenderness and rich flavor.
- Cheese: Provolone or American cheese work best for that gooey melt.
- Vegetables: Fresh onions, green bell peppers, and optional mushrooms add depth.
- Egg Roll Wrappers: These provide the essential crunchy exterior.
- Seasonings: Simple spices like salt, pepper, and garlic powder enhance the taste.
- Oil: Use vegetable oil for frying to achieve that perfect crisp.
Tip: For guidance on selecting the freshest produce, check out our guide on How to Choose the Best Vegetables for Cooking.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
- Cook until vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
- Cook the Beef:
- Season the ribeye steak slices with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In the same skillet, cook the beef until it’s browned and cooked through.
- Combine the cooked vegetables and beef, then set aside to cool slightly.
Looking for more ways to cook tender beef? Explore our article on Mastering the Art of Cooking Steak.
2. Assemble the Egg Rolls
- Prepare the Wrapper:
- Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean, flat surface in a diamond shape.
- Add the Filling:
- Place a generous spoonful of the beef and vegetable mixture onto the center of the wrapper.
- Top with a slice or sprinkle of provolone cheese.
- Roll It Up:
- Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the side corners.
- Roll tightly towards the top corner, sealing the edge with a dab of water.
For tips on proper rolling techniques, read our tutorial on How to Roll Perfect Egg Rolls Every Time.
3. Fry the Egg Rolls
- Heat the Oil:
- In a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry Until Golden:
- Carefully place a few egg rolls into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding.
- Fry for 3-5 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
Health-conscious? Try baking instead! Check out our method for Healthier Baked Egg Rolls.
Serving Suggestions
Philly cheesesteak egg rolls are versatile and pair well with various dips and sides:
- Dipping Sauces:
- Cheese sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy ketchup complement the flavors beautifully.
- For more ideas, see our list of Top 10 Dipping Sauces for Appetizers.
- Side Dishes:
- Serve alongside fresh salads, fries, or coleslaw for a complete meal.
- Garnishes:
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions for added freshness.
Tips and Variations
- Cheese Options:
- Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella for unique flavors.
- Learn about various cheese profiles in our guide on Selecting the Right Cheese for Your Recipes.
- Protein Alternatives:
- Substitute beef with chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- Vegetarian Version:
- Replace meat with a medley of roasted vegetables and tofu.
- Spice It Up:
- Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make Philly cheesesteak egg rolls ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Assemble the egg rolls and store them uncooked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Fry them just before serving for maximum crispiness.
Q2: How do I store and reheat leftover egg rolls?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to retain their crunch.
Q3: Can I freeze these egg rolls?
- Yes, freeze assembled but uncooked egg rolls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
Philly cheesesteak egg rolls offer a delightful blend of familiar and adventurous flavors, making them a standout addition to any menu. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a fun new recipe to try, these egg rolls are sure to satisfy. Don’t hesitate to get creative with fillings and dips to make this recipe truly your own. Happy cooking!