The Reuben sandwich, a classic deli favorite, has been a staple in American cuisine for decades. This mouth-watering combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, grilled to perfection between slices of rye bread, is a treat that never goes out of style. While it’s easy to grab a Reuben at your local deli, making one at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to create the perfect homemade Reuben sandwich.
A Brief History of the Reuben Sandwich
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a brief look at the origins of this beloved 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 another claim that the sandwich was actually invented by Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-born grocer from Omaha, Nebraska. Regardless of who came up with the idea first, the Reuben sandwich has become a staple in American cuisine, with its popularity enduring for generations.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To make a homemade Reuben sandwich, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 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
- Salt and pepper to taste
You’ll also need the following equipment:
- A skillet or griddle
- A cutting board
- A sharp knife
- A cheese slicer (optional)
- A spatula
Choosing the Right Corned Beef
When it comes to corned beef, you have two options: you can either buy it pre-sliced from the deli counter or purchase a whole brisket and slice it yourself. If you’re looking for the most authentic flavor, buying a whole brisket is the way to go. However, if you’re short on time or not feeling confident in your slicing skills, pre-sliced corned beef will still yield delicious results.
Preparing the Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is a crucial component of the Reuben sandwich, adding a tangy, slightly sour flavor that complements the richness of the corned beef and cheese. To prepare the sauerkraut, simply drain and rinse it in cold water to remove excess vinegar. You can also add a pinch of caraway seeds to give it an extra boost of flavor.
Assembling the Reuben Sandwich
Now that we have our ingredients and equipment ready, it’s time to assemble the Reuben sandwich. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Buttering the Bread
Start by buttering one side of each slice of rye bread. This will help create a crispy, golden-brown crust when we grill the sandwich.
Adding the Corned Beef
Next, add a layer of corned beef to the unbuttered side of one slice of bread. You can use as much or as little corned beef as you like, but a good rule of thumb is to use about 2-3 ounces per sandwich.
Adding the Sauerkraut
Add a layer of sauerkraut on top of the corned beef. Make sure to spread it evenly to ensure every bite gets a tangy kick.
Adding the Cheese
Add a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut. You can use a cheese slicer to get a thin, even slice.
Adding the Thousand Island Dressing
Spread a layer of Thousand Island dressing on top of the cheese. This will add a creamy, tangy element to the sandwich.
Assembling the Sandwich
Place the second slice of bread, buttered side up, on top of the sandwich.
Grilling the Reuben Sandwich
Now that our sandwich is assembled, it’s time to grill it. Here’s how:
Heating the Skillet
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. You can test the heat by flicking a few drops of water onto the skillet – if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, the skillet is ready.
Adding the Sandwich
Carefully place the sandwich in the skillet, buttered side down. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Flipping the Sandwich
Use a spatula to carefully flip the sandwich over. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the other side is also golden brown.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to take your Reuben sandwich to the next level:
- Use a panini press: If you have a panini press, use it to grill the sandwich. This will help create a crispy, evenly cooked crust.
- Add some spice: Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper to give the sandwich a spicy kick.
- Use different types of cheese: While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can also use other types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone.
- Add some caramelized onions: Caramelize some onions and add them to the sandwich for a sweet, savory flavor.
Conclusion
Making a homemade Reuben sandwich is a fun and rewarding experience that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. With its combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, this sandwich is a classic for a reason. Whether you’re a deli aficionado or just looking for a new recipe to try, the Reuben sandwich is a must-make. So go ahead, give it a try, and taste the magic for yourself.
| 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 |
By following these simple steps and using the right ingredients, you’ll be able to create a delicious homemade Reuben sandwich that’s sure to impress.
What is a Reuben sandwich and where did it originate?
A Reuben sandwich is a type of sandwich that 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 sandwich in the early 20th century.
The Reuben sandwich gained popularity in the United States in the mid-20th century, particularly in New York City, where it became a staple of Jewish delis and restaurants. Over time, the Reuben has evolved and been adapted in various ways, but its core ingredients and flavor profile have remained relatively consistent.
What type of corned beef is best for a Reuben sandwich?
For a Reuben sandwich, it’s best to use thinly sliced, high-quality corned beef that is tender and flavorful. Look for corned beef that is labeled as “flat cut” or “lean cut,” as this will be less fatty and more tender than other types of corned beef.
You can also use homemade corned beef, which can be made by soaking a beef brisket in a brine solution and then cooking it low and slow. This will give you a more intense flavor and a tender, fall-apart texture that is perfect for a Reuben sandwich.
How do I make sauerkraut for my Reuben sandwich?
Making sauerkraut for your Reuben sandwich is a simple process that involves fermenting shredded cabbage in a brine solution. Start by shredding a head of cabbage and mixing it with salt, caraway seeds, and any other desired spices or flavorings.
Pack the cabbage mixture into a jar or container and cover it with a brine solution made from water, salt, and sometimes caraway seeds or other spices. Let the mixture ferment for several days or weeks, until it reaches the desired level of sourness and tanginess.
What type of cheese is best for a Reuben sandwich?
For a Reuben sandwich, it’s best to use a type of cheese that is melted and creamy, such as Swiss cheese or Emmental cheese. These cheeses have a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that complements the corned beef and sauerkraut perfectly.
You can also use other types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, but Swiss cheese is the most traditional and widely used option. Look for a high-quality, imported Swiss cheese for the best flavor and texture.
How do I assemble and grill a Reuben sandwich?
To assemble a Reuben sandwich, start by spreading a layer of Thousand Island dressing on one slice of rye bread. Then, add a layer of corned beef, followed by a layer of sauerkraut and a slice of Swiss cheese.
Place the other slice of rye bread on top of the filling and grill the sandwich in a pan or skillet until it is crispy and golden brown. You can also use a panini press or grill for a crispy, evenly cooked sandwich.
Can I make a vegetarian or vegan version of a Reuben sandwich?
Yes, it is possible to make a vegetarian or vegan version of a Reuben sandwich by substituting the corned beef with a plant-based alternative. Some options include marinated and grilled portobello mushrooms, sliced eggplant, or grilled tofu.
You can also use a vegetarian corned beef substitute, such as seitan or tempeh, which can be marinated and cooked in a similar way to traditional corned beef. Look for vegan cheese and Thousand Island dressing alternatives to complete the sandwich.
How do I store and serve Reuben sandwiches?
Reuben sandwiches are best served immediately after grilling, while the cheese is still melted and the bread is crispy. However, you can also store them in the refrigerator for up to a day or freeze them for up to a month.
To store a Reuben sandwich, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate or freeze it. To serve, simply grill or toast the sandwich until it is crispy and hot, and serve with a side of pickles or coleslaw.