Justin Rowland’s Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls: A Recipe Worth Rolling For
Philly Cheesesteaks are a culinary icon, a symphony of savory flavors and textures that define comfort food at its finest. Now, imagine taking that iconic sandwich and transforming it into a crispy, hand-held delight – the Philly Cheesesteak Egg Roll. While there are many variations of this dish, Justin Rowland’s version has gained significant popularity for its delicious simplicity and authentic taste. This recipe takes the classic components of a Philly cheesesteak – thinly sliced steak, melted cheese, and caramelized onions – and wraps them in a crispy egg roll wrapper, creating an irresistible appetizer or snack. This article delves into the details of Justin Rowland’s Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls recipe, providing a step-by-step guide to creating this delectable treat at home. Get ready to experience the magic of Philly in every crispy bite!
## The Allure of the Philly Cheesesteak Egg Roll
The Philly Cheesesteak Egg Roll is more than just a fusion food; it’s a culinary adventure. It offers a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and the savory, gooey interior. The egg roll wrapper provides a satisfying crunch that complements the tender steak and melted cheese. This combination of textures and flavors is what makes this dish so appealing. Moreover, the egg roll format makes it an ideal party snack or appetizer, easy to handle and enjoy. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your guests.
Justin Rowland’s recipe stands out for its commitment to using quality ingredients and straightforward techniques. It captures the essence of the classic Philly cheesesteak while adding a fun and innovative twist.
## Ingredients: The Key to Cheesesteak Perfection
Before diving into the recipe, let’s gather the necessary ingredients. The quality of these ingredients will significantly impact the final outcome, so choose wisely.
* **Steak:** The heart of the Philly Cheesesteak Egg Roll is, of course, the steak. The best cut to use is ribeye, known for its marbling and flavor. However, if ribeye is not readily available or too expensive, you can substitute it with sirloin or even thinly sliced flank steak. Aim for about 1 pound of steak.
* **Cheese:** The cheese is equally important. Provolone cheese is the traditional choice for Philly cheesesteaks, offering a mild, slightly tangy flavor and excellent melting properties. You can also use white American cheese or even a blend of provolone and mozzarella for a richer, creamier taste. You’ll need approximately 8 ounces of cheese.
* **Onions:** Caramelized onions add a touch of sweetness and depth to the filling. Yellow onions are typically used, but you can experiment with white or even Vidalia onions for a slightly different flavor profile. You’ll need 1-2 medium-sized onions.
* **Egg Roll Wrappers:** These are readily available at most grocery stores. Make sure to buy the standard size egg roll wrappers, not the mini ones. You’ll need about 12-15 wrappers.
* **Oil:** Vegetable oil or canola oil is ideal for frying the egg rolls due to their high smoke points. You’ll need enough oil to fully submerge the egg rolls in a deep fryer or large pot.
* **Seasoning:** Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder are essential for seasoning the steak and onions. Feel free to adjust the quantities to your liking.
* **Optional Add-ins:** While the classic Philly Cheesesteak is simple, you can customize your egg rolls with additional ingredients. Consider adding sauteed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a touch of hot sauce for extra flavor.
## Step-by-Step Recipe: Rolling Your Way to Deliciousness
Now that we have all the ingredients, let’s get cooking! Follow these detailed steps to create Justin Rowland’s Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls.
**Step 1: Preparing the Steak**
* **Slice the Steak Thinly:** This is crucial for achieving the authentic Philly Cheesesteak texture. Partially freezing the steak for about 30 minutes before slicing can make it easier to cut thin, even pieces. Use a sharp knife or a meat slicer to achieve the desired thickness.
* **Season the Steak:** In a bowl, combine the sliced steak with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to ensure the steak is evenly coated with the seasoning.
**Step 2: Caramelizing the Onions**
* **Slice the Onions:** Thinly slice the onions into half-moons. This will help them cook evenly and caramelize properly.
* **Cook the Onions:** Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become soft, translucent, and golden brown. This process can take about 20-30 minutes. Be patient and don’t rush it; the caramelization is key to the flavor.
* **Season the Onions:** Season the caramelized onions with a pinch of salt and pepper.
**Step 3: Cooking the Steak and Onions**
* **Cook the Steak:** In the same skillet (or a separate one), heat another tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak and cook, stirring frequently, until it is browned and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the skillet; cook the steak in batches if necessary.
* **Combine Steak and Onions:** Once the steak is cooked, add the caramelized onions to the skillet and mix well. This allows the flavors to meld together.
**Step 4: Assembling the Egg Rolls**
* **Prepare the Work Surface:** Lay out a clean work surface and place the egg roll wrappers in a diamond shape in front of you.
* **Add the Filling:** Place a spoonful of the steak and onion mixture in the center of each egg roll wrapper. Top with a generous amount of cheese.
* **Wet the Edges:** Use a pastry brush or your finger to lightly wet the edges of the egg roll wrapper with water. This will help seal the egg roll.
* **Fold the Egg Roll:** Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling. Then, fold in the left and right sides, overlapping them slightly. Finally, tightly roll the egg roll upwards, pressing firmly to seal the edge.
**Step 5: Frying the Egg Rolls**
* **Heat the Oil:** Fill a deep fryer or a large pot with enough oil to fully submerge the egg rolls. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature.
* **Fry the Egg Rolls:** Carefully place the egg rolls in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the fryer. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. If the egg rolls are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
* **Drain the Egg Rolls:** Remove the fried egg rolls from the oil and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
**Step 6: Serving and Enjoying**
* **Serve Immediately:** Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are best served immediately while they are still hot and crispy.
* **Dipping Sauces:** While they are delicious on their own, you can serve them with dipping sauces such as ketchup, sriracha mayo, or a cheese sauce.
* **Garnish (Optional):** You can garnish the egg rolls with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of parsley for added visual appeal.
## Tips and Tricks for Perfect Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls
* **Use High-Quality Steak:** The quality of the steak significantly impacts the flavor of the egg rolls. Invest in a good cut of ribeye or sirloin for the best results.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet:** When cooking the steak and onions, avoid overcrowding the skillet. This will prevent the ingredients from browning properly.
* **Control the Oil Temperature:** Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for achieving crispy, golden-brown egg rolls. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature and adjust the heat as needed.
* **Seal the Egg Rolls Tightly:** Make sure to wet the edges of the egg roll wrappers thoroughly and press firmly to seal them properly. This will prevent the filling from leaking out during frying.
* **Don’t Overfill the Egg Rolls:** Overfilling the egg rolls can make them difficult to roll and may cause them to burst during frying.
* **Experiment with Cheese:** While provolone is the traditional choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as white American, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses.
* **Add Veggies:** While not traditional, you can add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or other vegetables to the filling for extra flavor and nutrients.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a touch of hot sauce or chili flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
* **Make Ahead:** You can assemble the egg rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best to fry them just before serving to ensure they are crispy.
* **Baking Option:** For a healthier alternative, you can bake the egg rolls instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the assembled egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush them with oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through.
## Variations on the Theme
While Justin Rowland’s recipe provides a solid foundation, feel free to get creative and experiment with different variations. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
* **Spicy Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the steak and onion mixture for a spicy kick. Serve with a sriracha mayo dipping sauce.
* **Mushroom and Swiss Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls:** Add sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese to the filling for a more gourmet twist. Serve with a Dijon mustard dipping sauce.
* **Pizza Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls:** Add pizza sauce and mozzarella cheese to the filling for a fun fusion of flavors. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
* **Chicken Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls:** Substitute the steak with thinly sliced chicken breast for a lighter alternative. Serve with a ranch dipping sauce.
* **Vegetarian Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls:** Use portobello mushrooms or a vegetarian steak substitute in place of the beef. Add sauteed onions, peppers and cheese for a delightful veggie version.
## Serving Suggestions
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways.
* **Appetizer:** They make a fantastic appetizer for parties, gatherings, or game nights. Arrange them on a platter with various dipping sauces for guests to choose from.
* **Snack:** Enjoy them as a quick and satisfying snack any time of day.
* **Side Dish:** Serve them as a side dish with a salad or soup for a complete meal.
* **Main Course:** For a more substantial meal, serve several egg rolls with a side of fries or onion rings.
## Justin Rowland’s Legacy and the Cheesesteak Egg Roll Craze
While it’s difficult to definitively say Justin Rowland invented the Philly Cheesesteak Egg Roll, his version has undoubtedly contributed to its popularity. His dedication to using quality ingredients and simple techniques has made his recipe accessible and enjoyable for home cooks everywhere. The Philly Cheesesteak Egg Roll, in general, has become a culinary phenomenon, appearing on restaurant menus and at food festivals across the country. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of the Philly Cheesesteak and the creativity of chefs who continue to find new and exciting ways to reimagine this classic sandwich.
## Conclusion: A Recipe Worth Rolling with Delight
Justin Rowland’s Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls recipe offers a delicious and innovative twist on a classic American favorite. With its crispy exterior, savory filling, and customizable options, this recipe is sure to become a crowd-pleaser. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to experience the magic of Philly in every bite! Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a fun snack, or simply craving something delicious, these egg rolls are the perfect choice. Enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors and textures, and savor the taste of Philly in a whole new way. This recipe is not just about cooking; it’s about creating memories and sharing delicious food with loved ones. So go ahead, give it a try, and discover why Justin Rowland’s Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls recipe is worth rolling for!
## Nutrition Information (Approximate, per egg roll)
* Calories: 250-350
* Protein: 15-20g
* Fat: 15-25g
* Carbohydrates: 15-20g
*Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*
Enjoy your homemade Justin Rowland-inspired Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls! Remember to always practice safe cooking habits.