Perfect Philly Provolone Hoagie

Make the perfect Italian-style Philly Provolone Hoagie with our quick 10 minute recipe.10 min prep | 10 min total | 1 hoagie

About the Philly Hoagie

Before we share with you the recipe for the perfect Philly Provolone hoagie, let’s have a quick chat about the history of the sandwich.

As for the name, it was originally known as “Hog Island” which over time became shortened to “Hoggies” and, eventually, “hoagie”. Here’s what makes it special:

1. Roll: The foundation of a Philly hoagie is a soft-yet-chewy Italian roll, such as a seeded or unseeded hoagie roll. The roll is sturdy enough to hold the fillings without becoming soggy.
2. Meats: Traditional hoagies feature a variety of Italian-style deli meats, including:
   • Genoa salami
   • Capicola
   • Prosciutto
   • Ham
   • Turkey (in some variations)
   • The meats are often thinly sliced for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
3. Cheese: Provolone cheese is the most common choice, but some variations might include American or Swiss cheese.
4. Vegetables: Fresh toppings typically include shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and thinly sliced onions.
   • Sweet or hot peppers (such as cherry peppers or banana peppers) are popular add-ons.
5. Condiments: The hoagie is often dressed with olive oil, vinegar, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mayonnaise or mustard can be added depending on personal preference.

Variations of the Philly Hoagie

• The “Italian Hoagie”: A classic version focusing on Italian meats and cheeses.
• Turkey or Roast Beef Hoagie: For those who prefer leaner or alternative protein options.
• Vegetarian Hoagie: Loaded with fresh veggies, sometimes including marinated artichokes or roasted red peppers.

Hoagie vs. submarine sandwich

While the Philly hoagie might resemble a “sub” or “hero,” Philadelphians insist on the distinction, tied to its local origins and ingredients. The term “hoagie” reportedly comes from workers at the Hog Island shipyard during World War I, who ate similar sandwiches.

Cultural significance

The hoagie is so integral to Philadelphia that the city celebrates “Hoagie Day” during Wawa Welcome America, an annual festival. It’s a time when locals and visitors enjoy this iconic sandwich together.

If you’re in Philadelphia, getting a hoagie from a local deli or a Wawa convenience store is a must for the authentic experience!

Ingredients

• 1 hoagie roll
• 1 ½ tbsp olive oil
• 4 slices Provolone Dolce
• 3 slices Genoa Salami
• 2 slices boiled ham
• 3 slices capicola
• ½ cup iceberg lettuce
• ½ tomato
• ⅛ red onion
• 1 tbsp peperoncini
• oregano
• parsley
• black pepper, to taste
• salt, to taste

How to make the perfect Philly Hoagie

1. Cut the hoagie roll length-wise almost entirely through.
2. Liberally drizzle extra virgin olive oil on both sides. Layer Provolone Dolce on each side of bread
3. Add the Genoa salami, boiled ham and capicola on top of the cheese until covered
4. Top with iceberg lettuce, red onion and hot peppers. Season with salt, peperoncini, oregano and parsley.
5. Season with salt, peperoncini, oregano and parsley.

Star ingredient: Provolone Dolce

Provolone Dolce is an aged pasta filata (stretched curd) that originates from the Po Valley in northern Italy. While there are many variants of Provolone, they fall mainly under two categories: Provolone Dolce and Provolone Piccante.

Provolone Dolce vs Provolone Piccante

Firstly, the young and mild cheese is called Provolone Dolce (sweet). And, there is a more robust version called Provolone Piccante (spicy).

Due to its mild flavour, Provolone Dolce is best used in cooking. As a matter of fact, you can enjoy this versatile cheese fresh in a Hoagie Sandwich or melted in a Grilled Cheese.

Recipe