The Ultimate Guide to Crafting the Perfect Classic Reuben Sandwich

The Reuben sandwich, a timeless classic that has been satisfying the cravings of deli lovers for generations. This mouthwatering masterpiece is a harmonious balance of flavors, textures, and temperatures, all held together by three slices of perfectly toasted rye bread. In this article, we’ll delve into the rich history of the Reuben, explore the essential ingredients, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect classic Reuben sandwich.

A Brief History of the Reuben Sandwich

The origins of the Reuben sandwich are shrouded in mystery, with several restaurants and chefs claiming to be its creator. One story behind the Reuben’s inception dates back to the 1920s, when Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur, allegedly created the sandwich as a specialty item for his New York City deli. Another theory suggests that the Reuben was born in the 1950s at Omaha’s Blackstone Hotel, where a local grocer, Reuben Kulakofsky, would often order a sandwich made with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese.

Regardless of its true origins, the Reuben sandwich has become an integral part of American deli culture, with its popularity spreading far beyond the borders of New York City.

The Essential Ingredients of a Classic Reuben Sandwich

A traditional Reuben sandwich consists of five key ingredients:

• Corned Beef: Thinly sliced, tender, and flavorful, corned beef is the star of the Reuben show. Look for high-quality, house-cured corned beef or opt for a reputable brand.
• Sauerkraut: Finely shredded, tangy, and slightly sweet, sauerkraut adds a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor to the Reuben. Choose a high-quality, store-bought sauerkraut or make your own using a simple recipe.
• Swiss Cheese: Nutty, creamy, and melted to perfection, Swiss cheese binds the Reuben’s flavors together. Opt for a high-quality, imported Swiss cheese or a domestic alternative.
• Rye Bread: Dense, chewy, and slightly sweet, rye bread provides the perfect foundation for the Reuben. Look for a high-quality, artisanal rye bread or bake your own using a simple recipe.
• Thousand Island Dressing: Creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet, Thousand Island dressing adds a rich, velvety texture to the Reuben. Use a high-quality, store-bought dressing or make your own using a simple recipe.

Additional Ingredients and Variations

While the classic Reuben recipe remains unchanged, some variations and additions can enhance the overall flavor and texture:

• Grilled Onions: Caramelized, sweet, and crunchy, grilled onions add a delightful depth to the Reuben. Simply slice an onion thinly, separate the rings, and grill them until caramelized.
• Grilled Bell Peppers: Sweet, crunchy, and slightly smoky, grilled bell peppers add a pop of color and flavor to the Reuben. Simply slice a bell pepper thinly, brush with oil, and grill until tender.
• Mustard: Spicy, tangy, and creamy, mustard adds a delightful kick to the Reuben. Opt for a high-quality, whole-grain mustard or a spicy alternative.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Classic Reuben Sandwich

Now that we’ve explored the essential ingredients and variations, it’s time to assemble the perfect classic Reuben sandwich. Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Corned Beef

• Slice the corned beef thinly against the grain, using a sharp knife or a meat slicer.
• Place the sliced corned beef on a plate or tray, covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauerkraut

• Drain the sauerkraut and rinse it with cold water to remove excess salt and acidity.
• Squeeze the sauerkraut gently to remove excess moisture.
• Place the sauerkraut on a plate or tray, covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Step 3: Prepare the Swiss Cheese

• Slice the Swiss cheese thinly, using a sharp knife or a cheese slicer.
• Place the sliced cheese on a plate or tray, covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Step 4: Assemble the Reuben

• Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium heat.
• Butter one side of each rye bread slice generously.
• Place one bread slice, butter-side down, on the griddle.
• Top the bread with a slice of corned beef, a spoonful of sauerkraut, a slice of Swiss cheese, and a dollop of Thousand Island dressing.
• Top with the second bread slice, butter-side up.
• Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
• Carefully flip the Reuben and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is equally golden brown.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Slice the Reuben in half, diagonally or horizontally, depending on your preference.
• Serve immediately, garnished with grilled onions, bell peppers, or a side of coleslaw.

Tips and Tricks for Making the Perfect Reuben Sandwich

• Use high-quality ingredients: The Reuben sandwich is only as good as its ingredients. Opt for high-quality corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and rye bread.
• Butter the bread generously: Buttering the bread is essential for creating a crispy, golden-brown crust.
• Use the right cheese: Swiss cheese is the traditional choice for the Reuben, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses, such as cheddar or provolone.
• Add some crunch: Grilled onions, bell peppers, or coleslaw can add a delightful crunch and texture to the Reuben.

In conclusion, the classic Reuben sandwich is a timeless masterpiece that requires attention to detail, high-quality ingredients, and a bit of love. By following these simple steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to crafting the perfect Reuben sandwich that will satisfy even the most discerning deli lovers.

What is a Classic Reuben Sandwich?

A Classic 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 combination of flavors and textures in this sandwich has made it a beloved favorite among many food enthusiasts.

The origins of the Reuben Sandwich are often attributed to Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who allegedly created the dish in the early 20th century. However, some sources also credit Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-American grocer, with inventing the sandwich. Regardless of its true origins, the Reuben Sandwich has become a staple of American cuisine.

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 select a high-quality product that is tender, flavorful, and thinly sliced. Look for corned beef that is labeled as “flat-cut” or “lean-cut,” as this type of cut is typically more tender and easier to slice thinly.

Avoid using pre-sliced corned beef, as it may be too thick and lack the desired texture. Instead, opt for a whole or half pound of corned beef that you can slice yourself. You can also consider using house-cured or artisanal corned beef for a more authentic flavor.

How do I prepare the sauerkraut for a Reuben Sandwich?

Preparing the sauerkraut for a Reuben Sandwich is a simple process that involves rinsing and draining the sauerkraut to remove excess liquid. Start by rinsing the sauerkraut under cold running water to remove any excess salt or vinegar. Then, use a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to drain the sauerkraut, squeezing out as much liquid as possible.

Once the sauerkraut is drained, you can add a pinch of caraway seeds or a sprinkle of sugar to balance out the flavor. Some people also like to sauté the sauerkraut in a pan with a bit of butter or oil to give it a crispy texture. However, this step is optional, and you can use the sauerkraut straight from the jar if you prefer.

What type of cheese is best for a Reuben Sandwich?

Swiss cheese is the traditional choice for a Reuben Sandwich, and for good reason. The nutty, creamy flavor of Swiss cheese complements the corned beef and sauerkraut perfectly, adding a rich and velvety texture to the sandwich. Look for a high-quality Swiss cheese that is aged for at least six months to get the best flavor.

Avoid using processed or pre-shredded cheese, as it may lack the desired flavor and texture. Instead, opt for a block of Swiss cheese that you can slice yourself. You can also consider using other types of cheese, such as Gruyère or Emmental, if you prefer a slightly different flavor profile.

How do I assemble a Reuben Sandwich?

Assembling a Reuben Sandwich is a straightforward process that requires a bit of finesse. Start by spreading a layer of Thousand Island dressing on one slice of rye bread, followed by a layer of corned beef, a layer of sauerkraut, and a slice of Swiss cheese. Top with the second slice of rye bread, and press gently to create a compact sandwich.

When assembling the sandwich, make sure to apply even pressure to avoid squeezing out the filling. You can also use a panini press or a grill to melt the cheese and crisp the bread, adding a crispy texture to the sandwich.

Can I make a Reuben Sandwich in advance?

While it’s possible to make a Reuben Sandwich in advance, it’s best to assemble the sandwich just before serving to ensure the best flavor and texture. The sauerkraut and corned beef can be prepared ahead of time, but the sandwich should be assembled just before serving to prevent the bread from getting soggy.

If you need to make the sandwich in advance, consider assembling the components separately and storing them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the sandwich. You can also consider using a thermos or a chafing dish to keep the sandwich warm and toasty.

How do I store leftover Reuben Sandwiches?

Storing leftover Reuben Sandwiches requires a bit of care to prevent the bread from getting soggy. If you have leftover sandwiches, consider wrapping them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and storing them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

When reheating the sandwich, use a panini press or a grill to melt the cheese and crisp the bread. You can also reheat the sandwich in the oven, wrapped in foil, at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.