The New York Reuben sandwich is a beloved classic that has been satisfying the cravings of deli enthusiasts for decades. This mouth-watering creation consists of tender corned beef, crispy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and creamy Thousand Island dressing, all piled high on toasted rye bread. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of making a authentic New York Reuben sandwich that will transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Manhattan.
A Brief History of the Reuben Sandwich
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a brief look at the origins of this iconic sandwich. The Reuben sandwich is named after Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who allegedly created the dish in the 1920s at his deli in New York City. However, there’s also a competing claim that the sandwich was invented by Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-born grocer from Omaha, Nebraska. Regardless of its true origins, the Reuben sandwich has become a staple of Jewish deli cuisine and a favorite among sandwich enthusiasts around the world.
Ingredients and Equipment
To make a authentic New York Reuben sandwich, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound corned beef, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons Thousand Island dressing
- 2 slices rye bread
- 2 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Equipment:
- Large skillet or griddle
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Cheese slicer
- Meat slicer (optional)
- Spatula
- Tongs
- Plates and serving utensils
Preparing the Corned Beef
The corned beef is the star of the Reuben sandwich, so it’s essential to prepare it correctly. Here’s how to slice and cook the corned beef to perfection:
Slicing the Corned Beef:
- Start by slicing the corned beef against the grain into thin strips. You can use a meat slicer or a sharp knife to get even, uniform slices.
- If you’re using a meat slicer, set the thickness to 1/8 inch or 3 mm.
- If you’re using a knife, try to slice the corned beef as thinly as possible, aiming for slices that are around 1/8 inch or 3 mm thick.
Cooking the Corned Beef:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the skillet and let it melt.
- Add the sliced corned beef to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it’s lightly browned and crispy.
- Remove the corned beef from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Preparing the Sauerkraut
The sauerkraut is a crucial component of the Reuben sandwich, adding a tangy, slightly sour flavor to the dish. Here’s how to prepare the sauerkraut:
Draining and Rinsing the Sauerkraut:
- Start by draining the sauerkraut in a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
- Rinse the sauerkraut under cold running water to remove excess salt and vinegar.
- Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the sauerkraut using a cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel.
Heating the Sauerkraut:
- Heat the sauerkraut in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the saucepan and let it melt.
- Cook the sauerkraut for 5-7 minutes, or until it’s lightly browned and caramelized.
Assembling the Reuben Sandwich
Now that we’ve prepared the corned beef and sauerkraut, it’s time to assemble the Reuben sandwich. Here’s how to do it:
Buttering the Rye Bread:
- Start by buttering one side of each slice of rye bread.
- Use a generous amount of butter to ensure the bread is well-coated.
Building the Sandwich:
- Place one slice of rye bread, butter-side down, in the skillet or griddle.
- Add a slice of Swiss cheese to the bread.
- Add a few slices of corned beef on top of the cheese.
- Add a spoonful of sauerkraut on top of the corned beef.
- Add a dollop of Thousand Island dressing on top of the sauerkraut.
- Place the second slice of rye bread, butter-side up, on top of the sandwich.
Cooking the Sandwich:
- Cook the sandwich for 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Carefully flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the other side is also golden brown.
Serving and Enjoying the Reuben Sandwich
The final step is to serve and enjoy your delicious New York Reuben sandwich. Here are a few tips for serving and enjoying this iconic dish:
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Reuben sandwich hot, straight from the skillet or griddle.
- Offer a side of pickles, coleslaw, or potato salad to complement the sandwich.
- Consider serving the Reuben sandwich with a bowl of matzo ball soup or a side of knishes for a truly authentic Jewish deli experience.
Tips for Enjoying the Reuben Sandwich:
- Take a big bite of the sandwich and enjoy the combination of flavors and textures.
- Savor the tender corned beef, crispy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese.
- Don’t be afraid to get a little messy and enjoy the sandwich with your hands.
In conclusion, making a authentic New York Reuben sandwich is a straightforward process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to create a delicious and satisfying sandwich that’s sure to please even the most discerning deli enthusiasts. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the flavors and traditions of New York City’s iconic Jewish delis.
What is a New York Reuben Sandwich?
A New York Reuben Sandwich is a variation of the classic Reuben sandwich, which originated in New York City. It typically consists of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, grilled between slices of rye bread. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delicious and satisfying sandwich that is popular in many delis and restaurants throughout the city.
The key to a great New York Reuben Sandwich is using high-quality ingredients, including thinly sliced corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese. The Thousand Island dressing adds a creamy and slightly sweet element to the sandwich, while the rye bread provides a crunchy base. When all of these ingredients come together, they create a truly unforgettable sandwich.
What type of bread is best for a New York Reuben Sandwich?
The best type of bread for a New York Reuben Sandwich is rye bread. Rye bread has a distinctive flavor and texture that complements the other ingredients in the sandwich perfectly. It is slightly denser and heavier than other types of bread, which helps to hold the filling in place. Additionally, the slightly sour taste of rye bread helps to balance out the richness of the corned beef and cheese.
When selecting a rye bread for your New York Reuben Sandwich, look for a bread that is made with caraway seeds, which give the bread a slightly nutty flavor. You can also try using a pumpernickel rye bread, which has a slightly sweeter and more robust flavor than traditional rye bread. Whatever type of rye bread you choose, make sure it is fresh and of high quality to get the best results.
How do I assemble a New York Reuben Sandwich?
Assembling a New York Reuben Sandwich is a straightforward process that requires some basic ingredients and a bit of assembly. Start by spreading a layer of Thousand Island dressing on one slice of rye bread. This will help to hold the filling in place and add flavor to the sandwich. Next, add a layer of corned beef, followed by a layer of sauerkraut and a slice of Swiss cheese.
Once you have added all of the filling ingredients, place the second slice of rye bread on top of the sandwich and press down gently. Make sure the bread is aligned properly and the filling is evenly distributed. You can also add some sliced pickles or coleslaw to the sandwich for extra flavor and texture. Finally, place the sandwich in a pan or skillet and grill until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
What is the best way to grill a New York Reuben Sandwich?
The best way to grill a New York Reuben Sandwich is to use a pan or skillet over medium heat. This will help to toast the bread and melt the cheese evenly, while also adding a crispy texture to the sandwich. You can also use a grill or grill pan if you prefer a more crispy crust on the bread.
When grilling the sandwich, make sure to press down gently on the bread to ensure even contact with the pan. You can also use a weight or press to help compress the sandwich and melt the cheese. Cook the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. Keep an eye on the sandwich to make sure it doesn’t burn or get too crispy.
Can I make a vegetarian version of the New York Reuben Sandwich?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of the New York Reuben Sandwich by substituting the corned beef with a vegetarian alternative. Some options include grilled portobello mushrooms, roasted eggplant, or sautéed spinach. You can also use a vegetarian corned beef substitute, such as seitan or tempeh.
When making a vegetarian version of the sandwich, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may be slightly different than the traditional version. You can also add some extra ingredients, such as sliced avocado or hummus, to add creaminess and flavor to the sandwich. Just be sure to adjust the amount of Thousand Island dressing and sauerkraut accordingly to balance out the flavors.
How do I store leftover New York Reuben Sandwiches?
Leftover New York Reuben Sandwiches can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To store the sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a sealed container. You can also store the sandwiches in a zip-top bag or airtight container to keep them fresh.
When reheating the sandwiches, you can grill them in a pan or skillet over medium heat until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. You can also reheat the sandwiches in the microwave or oven, but be careful not to overheat the cheese or bread. It’s also a good idea to reassemble the sandwiches just before serving to ensure the filling is evenly distributed and the bread is crispy.
Can I make New York Reuben Sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can make New York Reuben Sandwiches ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the sandwiches just before serving. You can prepare the filling ingredients, such as the corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese, ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches.
When assembling the sandwiches ahead of time, be careful not to let the bread get soggy or the filling get too wet. You can also prepare the Thousand Island dressing and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it. Just be sure to give the sandwiches a good press before serving to ensure the filling is evenly distributed and the bread is crispy.