Vegan Philly Cheesesteak
Vegan Philly cheesesteak transforms any kind of mushrooms into the perfect substitute for beef. With sautéed bell peppers onions, and loads of vegan cheese, this is the best meatless cheesesteak.
Philly cheesesteak is the most iconic American sandwich. This vegan version will not fail anyone, even non-vegans.
With delicious mushrooms, sautéed peppers, onions, blanket of melted cheese, and the soft roll that holds it all together, it is no surprise that even vegan version is popular.
The mushrooms are a perfect substitute for the beef, even in the nutritional values, so no wonder they work perfectly here.
Which Mushrooms Are The Best for Vegan Philly cheesesteak?
As you know, there are different types of mushrooms. Regardless, not all will work the same for this sandwich.
Here are the mushrooms I have tried and liked:
- White or brown button mushrooms: these mushrooms have mild, earthly flavor and are available all year-round. Although they are smaller in size, they will be perfect for the cheesesteak, as they perfectly soak up cooking juices. Also, they have a decent size and will not fell from the bun when you eat the sandwich.
- Oyster mushrooms: these mushrooms are wonderful little gems with a delicate texture and mild savory flavor. If you can get your hand on the king oyster mushrooms it will be perfect, because when you roughly shred them with a fork, you will get meaty pieces, perfect for replacing beefsteak.
- Shiitake mushrooms: these are rich, meaty and buttery when cooked. These mushrooms will work in the Vegan Philly cheesesteak sandwich, because they can also be nicely shredded just like the oyster mushrooms. In fact, these mushrooms are mostly used in Vegan recipes whenever they call for a shredded or pulled mushrooms.
Can I Use Something Else Instead Of Mushrooms?
I went here with the mushrooms, because I really appreciate their natural umami flavor and the nutrition they provide.
Still, the mushrooms are not mandatory in this recipe. If you do not like the mushrooms, or just want to try something else, I recommend that you go for seitan. The Seitan is a plant-based alternative with a stretchy meat-like texture.
Another option for you to try is the tofu. You can thinly slice the tofu, season it and cook in a skillet for short period of time and then just follow a recipe.
The Best Cheese For A Vegan Philly Cheesesteak
Philadelphians have strong opinions about weather cheesesteaks should be made with Cheese Whiz, American or Provolone cheese. Of course when Vegan, these cheeses are not suitable to be used in this sandwich.
Still, Vegan substitute for this cheese will give the most flavor. I have found some really great Vegan provolone and American cheese. To bring the gam up, I recommend that you try plant-based smoky gouda Vegan cheese.
How To Make Vegetarian Philly Cheesesteak?
Making Vegan Philly cheesesteak sandwich is easier than you think.
For this you will need:
- Peppers and Onions: Choose green bell peppers or a mixed bell peppers. Instead of plain white onion, you can go with the purple onion. Slice or shop the veggies and cook until soft and fragrant.
- Mushrooms: There is a variety of mushrooms to choose from. I have mentioned above my favorite and those that will work the best for this dish.
- Cheesesteak Seasoning: What is a cheesesteak without a proper seasoning? Cook the mushrooms in a mixture of smoked paprika, garlic, soy sauce, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce. This spice mix will recreate savory and delicious taste an original Philly cheesesteak.
- Cheese: The cheesesteak is not complete without a cheese. I used cheese in two stages: I placed few slices over the mushroom mix in the skillet, and few slices onto the bun.
What Else Can Be Added?
The Vegan Philly cheesesteak is just not complete in my opinion without something spicy. In this recipe I went with pickled jalapenos and they really do elevate the Philly cheesesteak.
Instead of pickled jalapenos you can go with serrano chile or fresno chiles. If you do not have any of these a good sprinkle of chili powder will work too.
How To Make A Vegan Philly Cheesesteak
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced or chopped
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 0.75lb. white button mushrooms, halved
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 slices Vegan cheese
- 2 soft subs or desired type of bread
- Pickled jalapenos, as desired
Instructions:
Heat oil in a skillet.
Add onions and peppers, and cook, stirring for 5-6 minutes.
Add mushrooms and spices.
Cook until all moisture has cooked out, for 10 minutes.
Top the mushrooms with cheese and remove the skillet from the heat,
Preheat your broiler. Cut the soft rolls or desired type of bun in half, but not completely through.
Place 2 slices of cheese on each roll.
Set the rolls on a baking sheet and under a broiler for 5 minutes.
Fill the rolls with the mushroom mix and top with jalapeños.
Serve and enjoy.
Vegan Philly Cheesesteak
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced or chopped
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 0.75lb. white button mushrooms, halved
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 slices vegan cheese
- 2 soft subs or desired type of bread
- Pickled jalapenos, as desired
Instructions
- Heat oil in a skillet.
- Add onions and peppers, and cook, stirring for 5-6 minutes.
- Add mushrooms and spices.
- Cook until all moisture has cooked out, for 10 minutes.
- Top the mushrooms with cheese and remove the skillet from the heat.
- Preheat your broiler. Cut the soft rolls or desired type of bun in half, but not completely through.
- Place 2 slices of cheese on each roll.
- Set the rolls on a baking sheet and under a broiler for 5 minutes.
- Fill the rolls with the mushroom mix and top with jalapeños.
- Serve and enjoy!
