The City of Brotherly Love is famous for its rich history, cultural attractions, and of course, delicious cuisine. When it comes to food, Philadelphia has a unique flavor profile that’s all its own. From classic diner fare to traditional ethnic dishes, Philly’s culinary scene is a reflection of its diverse neighborhoods and communities. In this article, we’ll take you on a taste tour of the city, exploring 20 classic Philadelphia recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From comforting sandwiches like the iconic Philly Cheesesteak to hearty soups like Pepper Pot Soup, these dishes showcase the best of what Philly has to offer. And let’s not forget about the sweet treats! From creamy cheesecakes to soft pretzels with cheese dip, there’s something for everyone on this list.
So, grab a cup of coffee or tea, get comfortable, and let’s dive into the world of Philadelphia cuisine.
Philadelphia Cheese Steak Sandwich
Experience the iconic taste of Philly with this mouthwatering cheese steak sandwich. Thinly sliced ribeye steak, sautéed onions, and melted provolone cheese come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ribeye steak
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 slices of provolone cheese
– 4 hoagie rolls
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking oil or butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the ribeye steak into thin strips and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Meanwhile, sauté the onion and garlic in butter or oil until caramelized.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the grilled steak, sautéed onions, and provolone cheese on each hoagie roll.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Philadelphia Pepper Pot Soup
This classic American soup originated in Philadelphia’s historic City Tavern in 1785. This recipe captures the essence of this hearty, flavorful dish with a blend of tender beef, vegetables, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket or chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large bell pepper, chopped
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onions, garlic, bell pepper, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, allspice, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Creamy Philadelphia Cheesecake
This classic cheesecake recipe is a timeless favorite, with a creamy filling and a buttery graham cracker crust. Perfect for any occasion or special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan over crust.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Philadelphia Soft Pretzels with Cheese Dip
Get ready to satisfy your snack cravings with these soft, buttery pretzels paired with a creamy cheese dip!
Ingredients:
For the Pretzels:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cheese Dip:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes. Place on a floured surface, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 hour.
5. Divide dough into 8-10 pieces. Shape each piece into a pretzel. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cheese Dip:
1. Mix softened cream cheese, grated cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Serve warm with freshly baked pretzels.
Philadelphia Hoagie Salad
A twist on the classic Philly hoagie sandwich, this salad brings together the iconic flavors of Italy and the East Coast in a fresh and delicious way. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cooked salami, sliced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, salami, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with red wine vinegar.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Philadelphia Scrapple Breakfast
Start your day with a classic Philadelphia-inspired breakfast featuring scrapple, a traditional Philly meatloaf-like dish made from pork scraps and cornmeal. This hearty breakfast will keep you fueled until lunchtime.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound scrapple, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 4 eggs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the scrapple slices and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until lightly browned.
3. Meanwhile, crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until beaten.
4. Pour the eggs over the cooked scrapple in the skillet and scramble to combine.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and fold to combine.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Philadelphia Tomato Pie
Get ready to experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with this iconic Philadelphia dish, featuring a flaky crust, rich tomato filling, and creamy cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 3 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and cold butter. Use a pastry blender or fingers to work the butter into the flour until coarse crumbs form.
3. Gradually add ice-cold water, stirring with a fork until dough comes together in a ball.
4. Roll out dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Trim edges and press into corners.
5. In a separate bowl, combine diced tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour tomato mixture into the pie crust, followed by grated cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until filling is bubbly and crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Philadelphia Pork Roll Sandwich
A classic Philly favorite, this sandwich features crispy pork roll, melted cheese, and tangy mustard on a soft bun.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork roll (Taylor Ham or similar)
– 4 slices of white American cheese
– 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
– 4 hoagie rolls
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the pork roll into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. Butter the inside of each hoagie roll.
4. Place a slice of cheese on each roll, followed by a few slices of pork roll.
5. Spread 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard on top of the pork roll.
6. Assemble the sandwiches and place them in the panini press or grill for about 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the rolls are toasted.
7. Remove from heat and let cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Philadelphia Butter Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a staple of American baking, with a rich buttery flavor and tender crumb that’s sure to please. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add sugar and continue beating until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Philadelphia Roast Pork Sandwich
Experience the classic flavors of Philadelphia with this iconic roast pork sandwich recipe. Thinly sliced roast pork, crispy cracklings, and tangy provolone cheese come together to create a mouthwatering treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 crusty rolls
– 8 slices provolone cheese
– Cracklings or crushed potato chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high. Sear the pork shoulder until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add sliced onion to the pot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Return the pork to the pot, add chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cover and roast for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
5. Slice the roast pork thinly against the grain. Assemble sandwiches with pork, provolone cheese, and cracklings (if using). Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 3-3.5 hours (including cooking time)
Philadelphia Snapper Soup
This creamy soup is a classic Philadelphia comfort food, made with snapper fish, onions, celery, and cream. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound snapper fish, cut into small pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and celery in butter until tender.
2. Add the garlic, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the snapper pieces and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Philadelphia Chicken Cutlet Sandwich
This classic sandwich combines crispy chicken cutlets with creamy Philadelphia-style cheesesteak sauce, melted provolone cheese, and fresh lettuce on a soft hoagie roll. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup Philadelphia-style cheesesteak sauce
– 4 slices provolone cheese
– 4 hoagie rolls
– Lettuce leaves, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Dredge chicken breasts in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Assemble sandwiches by spreading cheesesteak sauce on hoagie rolls, topping with cooked chicken, provolone cheese, and lettuce leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Philadelphia Dutch Apple Pie
This classic recipe combines tender apples with a crumbly, buttery crust to create a delicious pie that’s sure to please. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s perfect for anyone looking to whip up a tasty treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups peeled and sliced apples (Granny Smith or Golden Delicious work well)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, and salt. Mix until coated.
3. Roll out cold butter between two sheets of parchment paper into a rectangle shape.
4. Place apple mixture on one half of the butter rectangle.
5. Fold the other half of the butter over the apples to form a triangle.
6. Brush egg wash over the crust.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Philadelphia Cheesy Crab Dip
A creamy and indulgent dip that combines the flavors of Philadelphia with the sweetness of crab meat. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/2 cup lump crab meat, flaked
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, and Old Bay seasoning. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in crab meat and cheddar cheese until well combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish or a small cast-iron skillet.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve warm with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Philadelphia Italian Water Ice
Philadelphia’s iconic frozen treat, Italian water ice, is a refreshing summer delight. This recipe captures the essence of this beloved dessert, perfect for hot days and family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup citric acid (or substitute with 1 tablespoon white vinegar)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Combine sugar, water, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes or until the mixture reaches 160°F on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in citric acid (or vinegar), salt, and vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
4. Pour the mixture into a shallow metal pan or ice trays and freeze until set, about 2-3 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tips:
– For a more intense lemon flavor, use 1/2 cup of lemon juice.
– To achieve the signature grainy texture, don’t over-mix the mixture after cooling.
– Experiment with different flavors like strawberry or pistachio by adding pureed fruits or nuts to the mixture.
Philadelphia Tastykake-inspired Cupcakes
These moist and fluffy cupcakes are infused with the classic flavors of Philadelphia’s beloved Tastykake treats, featuring notes of chocolate, vanilla, and a hint of caramel. Perfect for any occasion, these cupcakes are sure to transport you back to the City of Brotherly Love.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– Caramel sauce, for drizzling (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
5. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler; allow to cool slightly.
6. Fold chocolate into batter until well combined.
7. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Philadelphia Mushroom Soup
This rich and comforting soup is a classic Philly favorite, featuring sautéed mushrooms, onions, and celery in a velvety broth. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a starter for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 8 ounces fresh mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, celery, and mushrooms; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Philadelphia Rye Bread
Experience the rich flavor of traditional Philly rye bread with this simple recipe. This classic Jewish-American bread is characterized by its dense, dark texture and distinctive caraway seed flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rye flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons caraway seeds
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flours, yeast, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients; mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then shape into a round or oblong loaf.
4. Place the dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Brush the melted butter over the loaf, then sprinkle with caraway seeds.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until dark brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Philadelphia Beef and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
A twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the flavors of Philadelphia with tender beef and melted cheese, all wrapped up in a crunchy bell pepper package.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture, then top with shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of cream cheese.
6. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Philadelphia Irish Potato Candy
This sweet treat has been a beloved Philadelphia tradition since the early 20th century. With its creamy potato base, rich chocolate coating, and crunchy pecans, this candy is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, confectioners’ sugar, granulated sugar, and salt.
2. Add the softened butter and mix until smooth.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Roll out the potato mixture into a log shape, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
7. Dip the potato log into the melted chocolate, then roll in chopped pecans to coat.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None (as this is a no-bake recipe)
Summary
Get ready to taste the flavors of Philadelphia with these classic recipes! From savory sandwiches like the Philadelphia Cheese Steak Sandwich and Philadelphia Roast Pork Sandwich, to comforting soups like Philadelphia Pepper Pot Soup and Philadelphia Snapper Soup, there’s something for everyone. Sweet treats include Creamy Philadelphia Cheesecake and Philadelphia Dutch Apple Pie, while snacks like Philadelphia Soft Pretzels with Cheese Dip will keep you satisfied. With a mix of traditional and modern twists, these recipes showcase the best of Philly’s culinary scene.
