The Reuben sandwich, a classic combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, grilled to perfection between slices of rye bread. It’s a staple of delis and diners across the United States, and its popularity endures to this day. If you’re looking to make a Reuben sandwich at home, you’re in luck – with the help of YouTube tutorials and a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious, authentic Reuben that rivals those found in even the best restaurants.
Understanding the Reuben Sandwich
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a closer look at the history and composition of the Reuben sandwich. The Reuben is believed to have originated in the 1920s or 1930s in New York City, where it was allegedly created by Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur. The original Reuben recipe consisted of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, all grilled between slices of rye bread.
Over time, variations of the Reuben have emerged, with some recipes substituting pastrami or turkey for the corned beef, or adding additional ingredients like coleslaw or pickles. However, the classic Reuben remains the most popular and widely recognized version of the sandwich.
Key Ingredients and Equipment
To make a Reuben sandwich at home, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:
- 1 pound corned beef, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons Thousand Island dressing
- 2 slices rye bread
- 2 slices Swiss cheese
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, divided
- 1 large skillet or griddle
- 1 cutting board
- 1 sharp knife
Tips for Choosing the Right Ingredients
When selecting ingredients for your Reuben sandwich, keep the following tips in mind:
- Look for high-quality corned beef that’s thinly sliced and has a good balance of flavor and texture.
- Choose a sauerkraut that’s tangy and slightly sweet, with a firm texture.
- Use a Thousand Island dressing that’s creamy and has a good balance of flavors.
- Select a rye bread that’s dense and chewy, with a slightly sweet flavor.
- Use a Swiss cheese that’s nutty and creamy, with a good melting texture.
Assembling the Reuben Sandwich
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients and equipment, let’s move on to assembling the Reuben sandwich. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create the perfect Reuben:
Step 1: Butter the Bread
Begin by buttering one side of each slice of rye bread. This will help create a crispy, golden-brown crust on the bread when it’s grilled.
Step 2: Assemble the Filling
Next, assemble the filling by spreading a layer of Thousand Island dressing on the unbuttered side of one slice of bread. Top the dressing with a layer of sauerkraut, followed by a layer of corned beef. Finally, top the corned beef with a slice of Swiss cheese.
Step 3: Top with the Second Slice of Bread
Place the second slice of bread, buttered side up, on top of the filling. Press down gently on the sandwich to ensure the filling is evenly distributed and the bread is securely in place.
Step 4: Grill the Sandwich
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for 3-4 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 3-4 minutes, or until the other side is also golden brown.
YouTube-Inspired Tips and Variations
If you’re looking for inspiration or want to try a new twist on the classic Reuben, here are a few YouTube-inspired tips and variations to consider:
- Use a panini press: If you have a panini press, use it to grill the sandwich instead of a skillet or griddle. This will help create a crispy, evenly cooked crust on the bread.
- Add some spice: Consider adding some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the filling for an extra kick of heat.
- Use a different type of cheese: While Swiss cheese is traditional in Reuben sandwiches, you can also try using other types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone.
- Add some caramelized onions: Caramelized onions can add a sweet, depth of flavor to the Reuben. Simply cook some onions in a pan until they’re soft and caramelized, then add them to the filling.
Reuben Sandwich Variations
If you’re looking to try a new twist on the classic Reuben, here are a few variations to consider:
- The Rachel: This variation substitutes pastrami for the corned beef and adds some coleslaw to the filling.
- The Reuben Dog: This variation uses a hot dog bun instead of rye bread and adds some sauerkraut and Thousand Island dressing to the filling.
- The Veggie Reuben: This variation substitutes grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, for the corned beef.
Conclusion
The Reuben sandwich is a classic combination of flavors and textures that’s easy to make at home. With the help of YouTube tutorials and a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious, authentic Reuben that rivals those found in even the best restaurants. Whether you’re a fan of the classic Reuben or want to try a new twist, we hope this guide has inspired you to get creative in the kitchen and make a Reuben sandwich that’s all your own.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Corned beef | 1 pound |
| Sauerkraut | 1 cup |
| Thousand Island dressing | 2 tablespoons |
| Rye bread | 2 slices |
| Swiss cheese | 2 slices |
| Unsalted butter | 1 tablespoon |
- Butter one side of each slice of rye bread.
- Assemble the filling by spreading a layer of Thousand Island dressing on the unbuttered side of one slice of bread, followed by a layer of sauerkraut, a layer of corned beef, and a slice of Swiss cheese.
What is a Reuben sandwich and where did it originate?
A Reuben sandwich is a type of sandwich that typically consists of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, grilled between slices of rye bread. The origins of the Reuben sandwich are not well-documented, but it is often attributed to Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who allegedly created the dish in the early 20th century.
Despite its unclear origins, the Reuben sandwich has become a beloved classic in American cuisine, with many variations and interpretations popping up in restaurants and delis across the country. Its unique combination of flavors and textures has made it a staple of comfort food, and its popularity endures to this day.
What type of corned beef is best for a Reuben sandwich?
When it comes to choosing the right corned beef for a Reuben sandwich, it’s essential to opt for a high-quality, thinly sliced cut. Look for corned beef that is labeled as “flat cut” or “lean cut,” as this will be less fatty and more tender. You can also choose to use house-cured or homemade corned beef for an even more authentic flavor.
Avoid using pre-shredded or pre-chopped corned beef, as this can be too dense and may not provide the right texture for the sandwich. Instead, slice the corned beef thinly against the grain to ensure that it’s tender and easy to bite into.
Can I use different types of cheese in a Reuben sandwich?
While Swiss cheese is the traditional choice for a Reuben sandwich, you can experiment with other types of cheese to create a unique flavor profile. Some popular alternatives include cheddar, provolone, and even mozzarella. However, keep in mind that these cheeses may alter the overall character of the sandwich, so it’s essential to taste and adjust as you go.
If you’re looking for a more authentic flavor, you can also try using Emmental or Gruyère cheese, which have a nuttier, more pronounced flavor that pairs well with the corned beef and sauerkraut. Ultimately, the type of cheese you choose will depend on your personal preference, so feel free to experiment and find the combination that works best for you.
How do I assemble a Reuben sandwich?
Assembling a Reuben sandwich is relatively straightforward, but it does require some finesse to get it just right. Start by spreading a layer of Thousand Island dressing on one slice of rye bread, followed by a layer of corned beef, a sprinkle of sauerkraut, and a slice of cheese. Top with the second slice of rye bread and grill until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
To ensure that the sandwich is evenly cooked, you can also grill it in a panini press or under the broiler for a few minutes. This will help to melt the cheese and crisp up the bread, creating a crispy, golden-brown exterior that gives way to a tender, flavorful interior.
Can I make a Reuben sandwich in advance?
While it’s possible to make a Reuben sandwich in advance, it’s generally best to assemble and grill the sandwich just before serving. This will ensure that the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted, and that the flavors are at their most vibrant.
If you do need to make the sandwich in advance, you can assemble the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. However, be sure to grill the sandwich just before serving, as this will help to bring out the flavors and textures of the ingredients.
What are some variations on the classic Reuben sandwich?
While the classic Reuben sandwich is a timeless favorite, there are many variations and interpretations that can add a fresh twist to this beloved dish. Some popular variations include adding sliced turkey or roast beef to the sandwich, using different types of cheese or bread, or adding some caramelized onions or bell peppers to the mix.
You can also try using different types of sauerkraut, such as kimchi or red sauerkraut, to add a spicy kick to the sandwich. Alternatively, you can substitute the Thousand Island dressing with a different type of spread, such as mustard or mayonnaise, to create a unique flavor profile.
Can I make a vegetarian version of the Reuben sandwich?
While the classic Reuben sandwich is centered around corned beef, it’s possible to make a vegetarian version of the dish by substituting the meat with a plant-based alternative. Some popular options include using sliced portobello mushrooms, grilled eggplant, or even marinated and grilled tofu.
You can also try using a vegetarian corned beef substitute, such as seitan or tempeh, to create a meat-free version of the sandwich. Be sure to season and marinate the ingredients well to bring out their natural flavors, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of ingredients to find the one that works best for you.