Philly Cheesesteak Soup

Savor the Flavor with Hearty Philly Cheesesteak Soup: A Culinary Odyssey to Philly Bliss

In the realm of comfort food, the Philly Cheesesteak stands tall as a beacon of flavor. Today, we embark on a culinary odyssey, transforming this classic sandwich into a soul-warming bowl of Philly Cheesesteak Soup. Join me in the kitchen as we delve into a recipe that encapsulates the spirit of Philadelphia, delivering a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients:

For the Soup Base:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 bell peppers (green and red), thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound thinly sliced beef sirloin
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded provolone cheese

For the Toppings:

• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 4 crusty rolls, sliced and toasted

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

• In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
• Add chopped onions, sliced bell peppers, and minced garlic.
• Sauté until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.

2. Brown the Beef:

• Add the thinly sliced beef sirloin to the pot.
• Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through.

3. Build the Base:

• Pour in the beef broth, ensuring to scrape any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot.
• Add sliced mushrooms, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Allow the soup to simmer for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld.

4. Add Creamy Goodness:

• Pour in the heavy cream and stir until well combined.
• Gradually add the shredded provolone cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.

5. Toasted Toppings:

• Preheat the broiler.
• Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls.
• Top each bowl with shredded provolone cheese.
• Place the bowls under the broiler until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Cooking Notes:

• For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup.
• Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as cremini or shiitake, to enhance the soup’s earthy flavor.
• If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the soup during the simmering stage.

Variations:

Vegetarian Philly Cheesesteak Soup:

• Substitute beef with plant-based protein options like seitan or tempeh.
• Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Add extra veggies such as zucchini or carrots for added texture and flavor.

Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Soup:

• Swap beef with thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh.
• Use chicken broth instead of beef broth.

Keto Version:

• Replace onions with shallots to reduce carb content.
• Opt for a lower-carb alternative to traditional rolls for serving.

Low-Carb Version:

• Use low-carb vegetables like cauliflower instead of bell peppers.
• Skip the toasted rolls or replace them with a low-carb alternative.

The Essence of Philly: A Culinary Journey:

Philly Cheesesteak Soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a journey through the vibrant streets of Philadelphia, where the sizzle of beef on griddles and the aroma of melting cheese fill the air. The onions and peppers in the soup pay homage to the bustling markets, while the provolone brings the richness of Philly’s culinary heritage to your table.

Ingredient Exploration:

The choice of beef is paramount; aim for thinly sliced sirloin to ensure tenderness and quick cooking. The marriage of onions, bell peppers, and garlic creates an aromatic base that mirrors the essence of a classic Philly Cheesesteak. Don’t underestimate the power of herbs – dried oregano and thyme infuse the broth with layers of flavor, elevating this soup to a culinary masterpiece.

The Symphony of Cooking:

The culinary symphony begins with the sautéing of aromatics, a dance of colors and fragrances that sets the stage. As the beef browns, envision the griddles of Philly’s iconic sandwich joints, each slice sizzling with anticipation. The addition of mushrooms introduces an earthy note, adding depth to the simmering broth.

The climax occurs when heavy cream and provolone meld together, transforming the soup into a creamy masterpiece. Patience is key during this step – allow the cheese to melt slowly, embracing every nook and cranny of the soup, creating a velvety texture that clings to the beef and vegetables.

Elevate with Toppings:

As we approach the crescendo, it’s time to talk about the toppings. The broiled provolone serves as the grand finale, a golden crown that crowns your soup bowl with a melty, gooey delight. The quick trip under the broiler transforms the dish, creating a delightful interplay between the creamy soup and the crispy, bubbly cheese.

While toasting the rolls might seem like a simple step, it’s a crucial one. Imagine the anticipation as you slice into a crusty exterior to reveal a soft, warm interior. This textural contrast enhances the overall experience, providing the perfect vessel to soak up the flavors of the soup.

Cooking Notes and Kitchen Hacks:

Let’s delve into the subtleties that make this recipe foolproof and adaptable. The addition of red pepper flakes during sautéing adds a touch of heat, perfect for those who crave a little spice. Exploring different mushroom varieties – cremini, shiitake, or even wild mushrooms – allows you to tailor the soup’s earthy undertones to your liking.

For those who appreciate a thicker consistency, a simple cornstarch slurry becomes your ally. Mix it in during the simmering stage, adjusting the thickness to your preference. This little trick ensures that every spoonful is a perfect balance of hearty and creamy, capturing the essence of a true Philly Cheesesteak.

Variety is the Spice of Life:

Now, let’s venture into the realm of variations, where creativity knows no bounds.

Vegetarian Twist: Vegetarians, fear not. Embrace plant-based living by swapping beef with seitan or tempeh. The robust flavors of the mushrooms and the savory broth provide a satisfying alternative, ensuring that everyone can partake in the Philly Cheesesteak experience.

Chicken Lovers Rejoice: For those who prefer poultry, a simple swap of beef for thinly sliced chicken – whether breast or thigh – transforms the soup into a lighter yet equally satisfying variation. The savory notes of the chicken harmonize with the broth, creating a melody of flavors.

Keto and Low-Carb Adventures:

In the ever-expanding landscape of dietary preferences, adapting the Philly Cheesesteak Soup to keto and low-carb lifestyles is not only possible but deliciously rewarding.

Keto Version: Reducing carb content without sacrificing flavor is the goal here. Replace onions with shallots – a milder alternative that adds depth without the added carbs. Consider opting for a lower-carb alternative to traditional rolls; perhaps a cloud bread or almond flour creation to soak up the savory goodness.

Low-Carb Version: For the carb-conscious, modifying this soup is a breeze. Substitute high-carb bell peppers with low-carb vegetables like cauliflower – not only does it contribute to the soup’s texture, but it also keeps the carb count in check. As for the rolls, you have the option to skip them entirely or explore the realm of low-carb alternatives, ensuring you stay on track with your dietary goals.

Conclusion: A Bowlful of Blissful Memories:

As we conclude our culinary adventure through the realms of Philly Cheesesteak Soup, take a moment to savor the fruits of your labor. What started as a handful of ingredients has transformed into a bowlful of memories, each spoonful a testament to the rich flavors and culinary creativity that defines this iconic dish.

Whether you followed the classic recipe to the letter or ventured into the world of variations, one thing remains certain – the essence of Philadelphia is alive in your kitchen. The sizzle of beef, the aroma of melted cheese, and the harmony of flavors have transcended the ordinary, creating a culinary masterpiece that resonates with the spirit of the City of Brotherly Love.

So, whether you’re gathered around the table with loved ones or savoring a quiet moment of self-indulgence, know that you’ve embarked on a journey that extends beyond the kitchen. Philly Cheesesteak Soup is more than a recipe; it’s an invitation to create, to savor, and to celebrate the joy that comes with a bowlful of blissful memories. Cheers to the culinary magic that happens when the streets of Philadelphia meet the warmth of your kitchen!