FOOD NEWS
Chopped Cheese Vs. Philly Cheesesteak: What's The Distinction?
by TEEJAY SMALL
Although the Philly cheesesteak and the chopped cheese from New York City both feature beef and cheese on a roll, their ingredients, structure, and flavor profiles set them apart.
Their distinctiveness lies in the type of meat used. The Philly cheesesteak favors beef steak strips or thinly sliced ribeye, and the chopped cheese uses ground beef.
While the Philly cheesesteak's origin is clear, the chopped cheese, popular in New York City, has multiple claimed inventors across Upper Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx.
Once the chopped cheese’s ground beef is browned, cheese is layered on top and mixed into the meat. Unlike cheesesteaks, the ingredients are mixed into one gooey amalgamation.
Broadly speaking, a Philly cheesesteak uses American or provolone cheese, often uses Cheez Whiz and additional toppings, and is served on a long soft roll.
Some regional variations include the addition of peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Philly cheesesteaks have left a significant mark in pop culture through films like "Rocky."