Quick Answer
The short answer is that traditional Philly cheesesteaks are not gluten free due to the bread used, but there are gluten free options available. Many restaurants offer gluten free rolls or bread to allow those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance to still enjoy the iconic sandwich. With care taken to avoid cross-contamination and adjustments to ingredients, it is possible to create a gluten free Philly cheesesteak.
What is a Philly Cheesesteak?
A Philadelphia cheesesteak, also known as a Philly cheesesteak, is a sandwich made with thinly sliced pieces of beef and melted cheese. The traditional style calls for ribeye or top round that is seasoned, grilled, and chopped into small pieces. Cheese options include Cheese Whiz, provolone, American cheese, or Cheez Whiz. The meat and cheese are placed into an Italian or hoagie roll and optionally topped with sauteed onions, mushrooms, and green peppers. The Philly cheesesteak originated in the early 1900s in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Multiple establishments claim to have invented the sandwich, but Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks are two of the most well known cheesesteak vendors in Philadelphia. The sandwich grew in popularity throughout the 1900s and became an iconic cuisine associated with Philadelphia and Pennsylvania. Today it is still a staple food found in restaurants throughout Philadelphia and has gained popularity nationally and internationally. The traditional ingredients and preparation style are closely tied to the identity and appeal of an authentic Philly cheesesteak.
Are Traditional Philly Cheesesteaks Gluten Free?
No, traditional Philly cheesesteaks made with the customary ingredients and preparation methods are not gluten free. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. The hoagie or Italian rolls used for traditional Philly cheesesteaks are typically made with wheat flour, which contains gluten. For a food to be considered gluten free, it must contain less than 20 parts per million of gluten. Because the bread is a core ingredient and contains gluten well over this limit, traditional Philly cheesesteaks cannot be classified as gluten free. In addition, there is risk of cross-contamination with gluten containing ingredients in most restaurant kitchens where cheesesteaks are prepared. So traditional Philly cheesesteaks prepared in the customary fashion with standard bread options contain gluten and are not safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Gluten Free Substitutions
There are some simple substitutions and preparation adjustments that can allow those avoiding gluten to still enjoy a Philly cheesesteak:
Gluten Free Rolls or Bread
– Many grocery stores, bakeries, and food manufacturers now offer gluten free bread, hamburger buns, and rolls. Using a gluten free replacement for the traditional hoagie roll or Italian bread allows the rest of the sandwich to remain intact. Look for rolls made with rice flour, tapioca, potato starch, corn. Just check the label to confirm it is certified gluten free.
Lettuce Wraps
– Large lettuce leaves like iceberg or romaine can be used in place of bread or rolls. Simply assemble the meat, cheese, and any other desired toppings in the center of the lettuce leaf and wrap it up like a burrito. The lettuce acts as the sandwich holder.
Gluten Free Breading
– If using breaded or fried meat in the Philly cheesesteak, check that the breading or batter does not contain gluten. Replace with a gluten free flour alternative.
How to Order Gluten Free at Restaurants
Many Philadelphia cheesesteak restaurants and food establishments are now offering gluten free options to accommodate dietary needs and preferences. Here are some tips for ordering a gluten free Philly cheesesteak when dining out:
– Check the menu for gluten free or celiac options. Many restaurants will designate dishes or items that are prepared gluten free.
– Ask about gluten free buns or rolls. Even restaurants without designated gluten free items often have gluten free bread or rolls available with advance request.
– Request a lettuce wrap instead of bread. Most places are willing to assemble the sandwich fillings in a lettuce wrap even if they don’t have a gluten free bun option.
– Verify preparation methods and ingredients. Ask about seasonings, sauces, and cross-contamination risks. Ensure vegetables are not coated in flour before grilling.
– Specify gluten free when ordering. Make sure to state that you need your sandwich prepared 100% gluten free.
– Check side dishes for gluten ingredients. Fries may be dusted with flour, so opt for a salad or plain vegetables.
Being clear about needing gluten free preparation is important both for your own safety and to help educate food service staff. With proper planning and some adjustments, those avoiding gluten can indulge in the iconic Philly cheesesteak.
Nutrition Comparison
Here is a nutritional comparison of a traditional Philly cheesesteak in an Italian roll versus a lettuce wrap version:
| Nutrition Facts | Regular Philly Cheesesteak | Lettuce Wrap Philly Cheesesteak |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 700 | 500 |
| Fat | 35g | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g | 4g |
| Sugar | 3g | 2g |
| Protein | 40g | 40g |
The lettuce wrap version is lower in calories, carbohydrates, and sugar. It is higher in fiber. The protein content remains the same. So the lettuce wrap results in an overall healthier nutritional profile without sacrificing protein. Those monitoring carbohydrate or calorie intake may find the lettuce wrap cheesesteak the better option.
Gluten Free Cheese Options
When customizing a gluten free Philly cheesesteak, check that the cheese ingredients are also gluten free. Here are some cheeses that are reliably gluten free:
– Cheddar
– Swiss
– Provolone
– Mozzarella
– Pepperjack
– Monterey Jack
– Parmesan
– Feta
– Goat Cheese
– Queso Fresco
– Blue Cheese
– Gruyere
Cheese Whiz and some processed cheeses may contain gluten or wheat starch. If in doubt, choose a cheese you know is naturally gluten free. Specify no breadcrumbs or batter on the cheese. With the proper cheese selection, you can still enjoy that melty cheese pull of a classic Philly-style sandwich.
Is a Gluten Free Philly Cheesesteak Authentic?
Changing the bread used in a Philly cheesesteak brings up debate around authenticity. Can it still be considered a true Philly cheesesteak if served on a gluten free bun or wrap? Among locals, opinions differ. Some traditionalists argue that the original Italian or hoagie roll is essential to the identity and eating experience of a cheesesteak. The bread soak up juices, provides the perfect vehicle for meat and cheese, and is well suited to the thin slicing style. In their view, a lettuce wrap or gluten free bun just doesn’t measure up.
Others have a more flexible concept of authenticity, focusing on the flavor profile and overall spirit rather than strict adherence. To them, what makes a great cheesesteak is the thin sliced beef, melted cheese, and optional sauteed onions and peppers. As long as those key components are executed well, they see putting them in a gluten free wrap or bun as creative adaptation, not heresy.
There are also arguments around access and inclusion. Some see offering gluten free options as expanding access so more people can participate in enjoying an iconic local food. If the alternative bread allows someone with celiac disease to finally be able to try an authentic Philly cheesesteak for the first time, that’s meaningful.
There may not be consensus around what constitutes an authentic Philly cheesesteak. But most can agree the availability of gluten free options is beneficial in allowing those with dietary restrictions to partake in an iconic Philadelphia tradition. Whether the spirit of the sandwich is preserved may be up to each individual taster to decide.
Tips for Cooking at Home
You can recreate a Philly-style cheesesteak at home using gluten free ingredients:
– Choose gluten free sub rolls, bread, or tortillas. Look for good quality bread that can stand up to the juicy sandwich fillings.
– Use flank steak or ribeye and slice it super thinly across the grain. Season with just salt and pepper.
– Cook the beef on a griddle or cast iron skillet over high heat to quickly sear and get a nice char.
– Have cheese slices ready to melt on the meat. Use provolone, Whiz, or shredded cheese.
– Saute sliced onions and peppers in a separate skillet for extra flavor and texture.
– Layer the ingredients together on your gluten free bread and serve right away. The bread should soak up the juicy juices.
– You can even make mini versions using gluten free dinner rolls for fun individual sandwiches.
With naturally gluten free ingredients and a few substitutions, you can recreate the experience of a Philly cheesesteak at home. It takes just a few steps and simple ingredients. Part of the appeal is customizing with your favorite cheese and vegetable combo.
Gluten Free Chains
Some chain restaurants with locations in the Philadelphia area offer gluten free Philly cheesesteaks on their menus or with special request:
– Jim’s Steaks – offers Amoroso gluten free rolls with reservations
– Ishkabibble’s – gluten free bread available
– Tony Luke’s – lettuce wrap or gluten free roll by request
– Steve’s Prince of Steaks – gluten free rolls
– Dalessandro’s Steaks – will make on gluten free roll
– Geno’s Steaks – lettuce wrap available
– Pat’s King of Steaks – will prep gluten free by request
Many national chains like Cheesecake Factory, BJ’s Restaurant, and Cheeseburger in Paradise also allow custom ordering of gluten free Philly cheesesteaks. just ask for gluten free bun and any necessary preparation accommodations. With the growing awareness of dietary needs, most restaurants are happy to accommodate gluten free requests.
Gluten Free Side Dishes
When ordering a gluten free Philly cheesesteak, pay close attention to the accompanying side dishes. Popular pairings like fries, chips, and onion rings may be coated in flour or batter containing gluten. Some safer gluten free sides include:
– House salad or caesar salad without croutons
– Steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach
– Baked potato or sweet potato
– Corn on the cob
– Fresh fruit
– Carrot sticks
– Guacamole or hummus with vegetables
– Rice pilaf
– Beans, legumes, or lentils
For optimal gluten free dining, avoid fried sides or confirm fryers use dedicated oil. Many restaurants are willing to substitute a gluten free side upon request.
Kids’ Gluten Free Options
Kids with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity don’t have to miss out on the fun of Philly cheesesteaks either. Restaurant kids’ menus often allow customization, so order a cheesesteak without the bread. Some gluten free suggestions for kids include:
– Lettuce wrap sandwich
– Cheesesteak ingredients over rice
– Served deconstructed or unassembled
– Mini corn tortillas or taco shells
– Slider-sized gluten free rolls or bread
– Ground beef as a substitute for steak
– Add veggie sticks and fruit sides
Getting creative with preparation can ensure kids don’t feel left out if they can’t eat the bread. Let them customize their own cheesesteak creations with gluten free ingredients.
Is a Cheesesteak Without Bread Still a Cheesesteak?
This is a matter of debate among cheesesteak purists. Can you have a cheesesteak without the bread and still consider it a cheesesteak? Some argue that the bread is non-negotiable, it is essentially the serving vehicle that makes this sandwich what it is. Take away the hoagie roll, and you just have steak and cheese but not a Philly cheesesteak.
Others focus more on the steak and cheese as the definitive ingredients, with the bread being more incidental. To them, you can have perfectly sliced steak and melted cheese on a plate without bread and achieve the ultimate flavor combination. Some even prefer forgoing the bread if they are really hungry, allowing you to eat more meat and cheese.
Those in the latter camp also point to tradition of the cheesesteak as a street food designed to be handheld and portable. If you are not eating it on the street, the bread may be less integral to the experience. Sit down restaurants serve cheesesteak ingredients over rice bowls or on salads, showing the concept translates.
At the end of the day, the bread matters more to some cheesesteak purists than others. But most can agree that the thinly sliced beef and melted cheese are at the core of what defines this Philadelphia staple.
Gluten Free Cheesesteak Festival
The annual Philly Cheesesteak Festival held at Citizens Bank Park baseball stadium now includes a gluten free vendor booth. Famous Philly sandwich shops featured include:
| Restaurant | Gluten Free Options |
|---|---|
| Dalessandro’s Steaks | Gluten free roll |
| Sonny’s Famous Steaks | Lettuce wrap |
| Steve’s Prince of Steaks | Gluten free bun |
| Ishkabibbles | Gluten free bread |
| Melrose Diner | Lettuce wrap |
The festival brings together the city’s best cheesesteak restaurants and mobile food vendors. Having these popular shops all offer gluten free options in one location makes it easy and fun for those eating gluten free to enjoy the festivities. You can sample different takes on gluten free Philly cheesesteaks from some of the most well known vendors, comparing tastes and textures. They even have gluten free desserts available with advanced request. The festival is held annually each Spring and is a can’t miss event for cheesesteak lovers.
Conclusion
While traditional Philly cheesesteaks are not gluten free, there are now many delicious options for those avoiding gluten. With high quality gluten free bread and creative preparation methods, you can stay true to the spirit and flavors of an authentic cheesesteak without the adverse reaction. Philadelphia restaurants are increasingly accommodating special dietary needs, and most are happy to customize your order. With advanced planning and some adjustments, those with celiac disease and gluten intolerance can still enjoy indulging in Philadelphia’s quintessential sandwich. While the debate around what makes an authentic cheesesteak may persist, the priority is everyone being able to participate in savoring this culinary tradition.