The Reuben sandwich, a classic deli delight, has been a staple of American cuisine for decades. This mouthwatering creation typically consists of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, all piled high on rye bread. However, for those looking to mix things up, the open-faced Reuben sandwich offers a fresh twist on the traditional recipe. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of open-faced Reuben sandwiches, exploring their history, key ingredients, and step-by-step instructions for crafting the perfect dish.
A Brief History of the Reuben Sandwich
Before diving into the open-faced variation, it’s essential to understand the origins of the Reuben sandwich. The dish is often attributed to Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who allegedly created the sandwich in the early 20th century. However, another story suggests that the Reuben was invented by Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-born grocer from Omaha, Nebraska. Regardless of its true origins, the Reuben sandwich has become a beloved classic, with its unique combination of flavors and textures captivating palates across the globe.
The Open-Faced Reuben: A Twist on a Classic
So, what sets the open-faced Reuben apart from its traditional counterpart? The answer lies in its presentation. Rather than placing the filling between two slices of bread, the open-faced Reuben features a single slice of bread topped with a generous helping of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing. This format allows each component to shine, creating a visually stunning dish that’s almost too beautiful to eat.
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Open-Faced Reuben
When it comes to crafting an exceptional open-faced Reuben, the quality of your ingredients is paramount. Here are a few key components to focus on:
- Corned Beef: Thinly sliced corned beef is essential for an open-faced Reuben. Look for high-quality, lean cuts that are tender and flavorful.
- Sauerkraut: Finely shredded sauerkraut adds a tangy, slightly sour flavor to the dish. Opt for a high-quality, store-bought variety or try making your own at home.
- Swiss Cheese: Nutty, creamy Swiss cheese is the perfect complement to the corned beef and sauerkraut. Choose a high-quality, imported variety for the best flavor.
- Thousand Island Dressing: A tangy, slightly sweet Thousand Island dressing brings the entire dish together. Make your own at home using a combination of mayonnaise, ketchup, and relish, or opt for a high-quality store-bought variety.
- Rye Bread: A dense, chewy rye bread provides the perfect base for the open-faced Reuben. Look for a high-quality, artisanal variety or try baking your own at home.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crafting the Perfect Open-Faced Reuben
Now that we’ve covered the key ingredients, it’s time to dive into the step-by-step instructions for crafting the perfect open-faced Reuben. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s sure to impress:
- Preheat Your Broiler: Begin by preheating your broiler to high heat. This will be used to melt the Swiss cheese and toast the rye bread.
- Toast the Rye Bread: Place a single slice of rye bread on a baking sheet and toast under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until lightly browned.
- Assemble the Filling: In a small bowl, combine the corned beef, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing. Mix well to combine.
- Assemble the Open-Faced Reuben: Spoon the corned beef mixture onto the toasted rye bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Add the Swiss Cheese: Place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the corned beef mixture.
- Broil Until Golden Brown: Place the open-faced Reuben under the broiler and cook until the Swiss cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the open-faced Reuben from the oven and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations for the Perfect Open-Faced Reuben
While the traditional open-faced Reuben is a masterpiece in its own right, there are several ways to mix things up and add your own personal touch. Here are a few tips and variations to consider:
- Add Some Caramelized Onions: Slow-cooked caramelized onions add a depth of flavor and sweetness to the dish. Simply cook the onions in a pan with a little oil until they’re dark and caramelized.
- Use a Different Type of Cheese: While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can also experiment with other varieties like cheddar, provolone, or even blue cheese.
- Add Some Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill can add a bright, freshness to the dish.
The Benefits of Open-Faced Sandwiches
Open-faced sandwiches like the Reuben offer several benefits over their traditional counterparts. Here are a few advantages to consider:
- Increased Flavor: By exposing the filling to the air, open-faced sandwiches allow each component to shine, creating a more complex and nuanced flavor profile.
- Improved Texture: The absence of a top slice of bread allows the textures of the filling to take center stage, creating a more engaging and dynamic eating experience.
- Visual Appeal: Open-faced sandwiches are often more visually appealing than their traditional counterparts, making them perfect for special occasions or dinner parties.
Conclusion
The open-faced Reuben sandwich is a delicious twist on a classic deli dish. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can create a mouthwatering masterpiece that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Reuben sandwiches or just looking to mix things up, the open-faced Reuben is a must-try. So why not give it a shot? Your taste buds will thank you.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Corned Beef | 8 oz |
| Sauerkraut | 1 cup |
| Swiss Cheese | 2 slices |
| Thousand Island Dressing | 1/4 cup |
| Rye Bread | 1 slice |
Note: The quantity of the ingredients may vary based on individual preferences and the number of servings.
What is an Open-Faced Reuben Sandwich?
An open-faced Reuben sandwich is a variation of the classic Reuben sandwich, which typically consists of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, grilled between slices of rye bread. The open-faced version, on the other hand, features the same ingredients, but instead of being sandwiched between two slices of bread, they are piled high on top of a single slice of toasted rye bread.
This allows for a more generous portion of the delicious filling ingredients and a better balance of flavors and textures in each bite. The open-faced design also makes it easier to customize the sandwich to your liking, as you can add or subtract ingredients as desired.
What type of bread is best for an Open-Faced Reuben Sandwich?
When it comes to choosing the bread for an open-faced Reuben sandwich, you’ll want to select a dense, chewy bread that can hold up to the generous toppings. Rye bread is the traditional choice, and for good reason – its distinctive flavor and texture provide a perfect complement to the corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese.
Look for a high-quality, dense rye bread that is made with caraway seeds, which add a nice depth of flavor and texture to the bread. You can also consider using a pumpernickel or dark rye bread for a slightly different flavor profile. Whatever bread you choose, be sure to toast it until it’s crispy and golden brown to bring out the best flavor.
How do I prepare the corned beef for an Open-Faced Reuben Sandwich?
The corned beef is a crucial component of an open-faced Reuben sandwich, and you’ll want to prepare it carefully to bring out the best flavor. Look for a high-quality corned beef that is thinly sliced and has a good balance of fat and lean meat.
To prepare the corned beef, simply slice it thinly against the grain and cook it in a pan over medium heat until it’s crispy and golden brown. You can also add a bit of oil or butter to the pan to help bring out the flavor of the corned beef. Be careful not to overcook the corned beef, as it can become dry and tough.
What type of cheese is best for an Open-Faced Reuben Sandwich?
The cheese is a key component of an open-faced Reuben sandwich, and you’ll want to choose a type that melts well and adds a rich, creamy flavor to the sandwich. Swiss cheese is the traditional choice, and for good reason – its nutty, slightly sweet flavor pairs perfectly with the corned beef and sauerkraut.
You can also consider using other types of cheese, such as Gruyère or Emmental, which have a similar flavor profile to Swiss cheese. Whatever cheese you choose, be sure to slice it thinly and melt it until it’s creamy and bubbly.
How do I assemble an Open-Faced Reuben Sandwich?
Assembling an open-faced Reuben sandwich is a straightforward process that requires just a few simple steps. Start by toasting a slice of rye bread until it’s crispy and golden brown. Next, add a layer of corned beef on top of the bread, followed by a layer of sauerkraut and a slice of cheese.
Finally, add a dollop of Thousand Island dressing on top of the cheese and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or dill. You can also customize the sandwich to your liking by adding other ingredients, such as sliced onions or pickles.
Can I customize an Open-Faced Reuben Sandwich to my liking?
One of the best things about an open-faced Reuben sandwich is that it’s highly customizable, so you can tailor it to your tastes and preferences. If you don’t like sauerkraut, for example, you can substitute it with coleslaw or sliced cucumbers.
You can also add other ingredients to the sandwich, such as sliced onions or pickles, to give it a bit more flavor and texture. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can try using different types of cheese or meat to create a unique variation on the classic Reuben.
How do I serve an Open-Faced Reuben Sandwich?
An open-faced Reuben sandwich is a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for serving on its own or as part of a larger menu. You can serve it as a main course, accompanied by a side of soup or salad, or as a snack or appetizer.
Whatever way you choose to serve it, be sure to present the sandwich attractively, with the ingredients piled high on top of the bread and a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs on top. You can also consider serving the sandwich with a side of Thousand Island dressing or other condiments, so that guests can customize it to their liking.