### Egg Rolls Filled with Philly Cheesesteak
#### Introduction
Egg rolls filled with Philly cheesesteak offer a creative twist on two beloved foods: the crispy, savory egg roll and the iconic Philly cheesesteak. This fusion dish combines tender, seasoned steak with sautéed onions and peppers, all wrapped in a crunchy egg roll wrapper and deep-fried to perfection. It’s a perfect blend of American comfort food with Asian-inspired flair, making it a fun appetizer or main dish that’s sure to satisfy both cheese and steak lovers.
#### Origin and Cultural Significance
Philly cheesesteaks originated in Philadelphia in the 1930s, quickly becoming a staple of the city’s food culture. The sandwich, made with thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, is known for its rich, savory flavor. Meanwhile, egg rolls are a Chinese-American dish that has evolved from traditional Chinese spring rolls, becoming a popular snack in American Chinese cuisine. By combining these two iconic dishes, you get an exciting mashup that bridges cultures and delivers a flavorful punch.
The cultural significance of this dish lies in the way it represents the fusion of different culinary traditions. It highlights the versatility of both the Philly cheesesteak and the egg roll, as well as the growing trend of experimenting with cross-cultural flavors.
#### Ingredients Quantity
* **For the Egg Rolls:**
* 1 lb ribeye steak (or flank steak), thinly sliced
* 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
* 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
* 4 oz provolone cheese or American cheese, shredded
* 10-12 egg roll wrappers
* 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
* Salt and pepper, to taste
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
* **For Frying:**
* Vegetable oil (for deep frying)
#### Optional Additions
* **Mushrooms**, thinly sliced, for an added umami flavor
* **Jalapeños** or hot sauce for some heat
* **Cheese varieties** like Cheddar or Mozzarella for a different flavor profile
* **Garlic**, finely minced, for more depth of flavor
* **Fresh parsley or chives**, finely chopped, for garnish
* **Dipping sauces** such as ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli
#### Tips for Success
* **Use thinly sliced steak:** The key to a great Philly cheesesteak egg roll is the texture of the steak. Thinly slicing the meat ensures it cooks quickly and is easy to roll inside the wrapper.
* **Don’t overfill the wrappers:** Be careful not to overstuff the egg roll wrappers, as this can make them difficult to roll and fry evenly. Keep the filling in the center and make sure to seal the edges well.
* **Fry at the right temperature:** Ensure the oil is at 350°F (175°C) before frying. This ensures the egg rolls get crispy without absorbing too much oil.
* **Test the filling:** Before wrapping, make sure your filling is flavorful and well-seasoned. If needed, adjust salt, pepper, or add soy sauce for a savory depth.
* **Seal the edges well:** Use a little bit of water to seal the edges of the egg roll wrapper to prevent it from opening during frying.
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the filling:** In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers (if using) and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the thinly sliced steak to the skillet, cooking until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and soy sauce (if using). Remove from heat.
2. **Assemble the egg rolls:** Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place a small amount of the steak mixture in the center of the wrapper, leaving space on the edges. Add a generous pinch of shredded cheese on top. Fold in the sides of the wrapper, then roll it tightly from the bottom up, sealing the edges with a little water.
3. **Heat the oil:** In a large pot or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
4. **Fry the egg rolls:** Carefully place the egg rolls in the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Be sure to flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5. **Drain and serve:** Remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce.
#### Description
Egg rolls filled with Philly cheesesteak are the ultimate fusion of crispy and savory. The crispy, golden exterior gives way to a warm, cheesy interior filled with tender steak, sautéed onions, and peppers. The melted cheese binds everything together, creating a satisfying bite that combines the best of both worlds. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a snack, these egg rolls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
#### Nutritional Information (Per Serving, based on 4 servings)
* **Calories**: 350-400 (for two egg rolls)
* **Fat**: 20g
* **Carbohydrates**: 30g
* **Protein**: 18g
* **Fiber**: 2g
* **Sugar**: 3g
* **Sodium**: 600-800mg
* **Cholesterol**: 50mg
*Note: Nutritional values can vary depending on the type of cheese used and the method of frying.*
#### Conclusion
Egg rolls filled with Philly cheesesteak are a delicious twist on two iconic dishes. The combination of tender steak, sautéed vegetables, and melted cheese wrapped in a crispy shell makes for an irresistible appetizer or snack. This fusion recipe brings comfort food to new heights while offering a fun way to enjoy the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak in a bite-sized, easy-to-eat form.
#### Recommendation
For a healthier take, consider baking the egg rolls instead of frying them. You can also use leaner cuts of meat, like chicken or turkey, for a lighter version. Pair the egg rolls with a refreshing salad or some roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. Don’t forget to experiment with different dipping sauces to elevate the flavor profile!
#### Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While Philly cheesesteak egg rolls are certainly indulgent, you can embrace healthful indulgence by making small tweaks to the recipe. Opting for whole wheat egg roll wrappers, using reduced-fat cheese, or adding extra veggies can make this dish a little lighter while maintaining its savory, cheesy goodness.