The Reuben sandwich, a classic deli delight, has been a staple of American cuisine for decades. This mouthwatering 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. But what makes a truly exceptional Reuben sandwich? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the Reuben, explore the essential ingredients, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect 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 at his eponymous deli in New York City. Another account credits Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-born grocer from Omaha, Nebraska, with inventing the sandwich in the 1930s.
Regardless of its true origins, the Reuben sandwich gained widespread popularity in the mid-20th century, becoming a staple of Jewish delis and diners across the United States. Today, the Reuben remains a beloved classic, with countless variations and interpretations popping up on menus worldwide.
The Essential Ingredients of a Reuben Sandwich
So, what makes a Reuben sandwich truly authentic? The answer lies in the quality and combination of its core ingredients. Here are the essential components of a classic Reuben sandwich:
Corned Beef
Thinly sliced corned beef is the star of the Reuben show. Look for high-quality, tender corned beef that’s been cured in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices. You can use either store-bought or homemade corned beef, but be sure to slice it thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut, a tangy and slightly sweet fermented cabbage condiment, adds a crucial layer of flavor and texture to the Reuben. Choose a high-quality sauerkraut that’s been fermented in its own juices, and be sure to drain off any excess liquid before adding it to the sandwich.
Swiss Cheese
Nutty, creamy Swiss cheese is the perfect complement to the savory corned beef and tangy sauerkraut. Look for a high-quality, imported Swiss cheese that’s been aged to perfection.
Thousand Island Dressing
Thousand Island dressing, a creamy and slightly sweet condiment made from mayonnaise, ketchup, and relish, adds a rich and tangy element to the Reuben. You can use store-bought or homemade Thousand Island dressing, but be sure to apply it sparingly to avoid overpowering the other ingredients.
Rye Bread
Crusty, dense rye bread is the perfect vessel for the Reuben’s flavorful filling. Look for a high-quality, artisanal rye bread that’s been baked to perfection, and be sure to slice it thinly to prevent the sandwich from becoming too bulky.
Assembling the Perfect Reuben Sandwich
Now that we’ve covered the essential ingredients, it’s time to assemble the perfect Reuben sandwich. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a truly exceptional 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 when the sandwich is grilled.
Step 2: Add the Corned Beef
Next, add a layer of thinly sliced corned beef to the unbuttered side of one slice of bread. Be sure to slice the corned beef against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Step 3: Add the Sauerkraut
Add a layer of drained sauerkraut on top of the corned beef. Be sure to squeeze out any excess liquid from the sauerkraut before adding it to the sandwich.
Step 4: Add the Swiss Cheese
Add a layer of sliced Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut. Be sure to use a high-quality, imported Swiss cheese that’s been aged to perfection.
Step 5: Add the Thousand Island Dressing
Add a thin layer of Thousand Island dressing on top of the Swiss cheese. Be sure to apply the dressing sparingly to avoid overpowering the other ingredients.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich
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.
Step 7: Grill the Sandwich
Grill the sandwich in a skillet or griddle over medium heat until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Flip the sandwich over and grill for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the other side is equally toasted.
Tips and Variations for the Perfect Reuben Sandwich
While the classic Reuben recipe is a timeless favorite, there are countless ways to mix and match ingredients to create your own unique variation. Here are a few tips and ideas to get you started:
Use High-Quality Ingredients
The key to a truly exceptional Reuben sandwich lies in the quality of its ingredients. Be sure to use high-quality corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing to ensure a rich and satisfying flavor.
Experiment with Different Types of Cheese
While Swiss cheese is the classic choice for a Reuben sandwich, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese, such as cheddar, provolone, or even blue cheese.
Add Some Spice with Mustard or Horseradish
Add a tangy kick to your Reuben sandwich with a layer of spicy mustard or horseradish. This will add a bold and pungent flavor to the sandwich.
Try Using Different Types of Bread
While rye bread is the classic choice for a Reuben sandwich, feel free to experiment with other types of bread, such as sourdough, ciabatta, or even gluten-free bread.
Conclusion
The Reuben sandwich is a timeless classic that never goes out of style. With its rich and satisfying combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, it’s a treat that’s sure to please even the most discerning palate. By following the steps outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to crafting the perfect Reuben sandwich. So go ahead, get creative, and experiment with different ingredients and variations to make the Reuben sandwich your own.
What is a Reuben Sandwich?
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 combination of flavors and textures in a Reuben sandwich makes it a popular choice for many people.
The origins of the Reuben sandwich are unclear, but it is often attributed to Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who allegedly created the sandwich in the early 20th century. Regardless of its origins, the Reuben sandwich has become a beloved classic in many parts of the world.
What type of bread is best for a Reuben Sandwich?
The best type of bread for a Reuben sandwich is rye bread, specifically a dense and chewy type of rye bread that can hold up to the filling. Rye bread has a distinctive flavor that complements the other ingredients in the sandwich, and its texture provides a nice contrast to the softness of the cheese and the crunch of the sauerkraut.
When selecting a rye bread for your Reuben sandwich, look for a bread that is made with caraway seeds, which give the bread a distinctive flavor and texture. You can also try using a pumpernickel bread or a dark rye bread for a slightly different flavor profile.
How do I prepare the corned beef for a Reuben Sandwich?
To prepare the corned beef for a Reuben sandwich, you can use either thinly sliced deli corned beef or cook a corned beef brisket yourself. If using deli corned beef, simply slice it thinly and set it aside. If cooking a corned beef brisket, cook it in liquid (such as stock or water) until it is tender, then slice it thinly against the grain.
Regardless of which method you choose, make sure to slice the corned beef thinly so that it is easy to bite into. You can also try adding some spices or seasonings to the corned beef to give it extra flavor.
What type of cheese is best for a Reuben Sandwich?
The best type of cheese for a Reuben sandwich is Swiss cheese, which has a mild flavor and a creamy texture that complements the other ingredients in the sandwich. You can use either sliced Swiss cheese or shredded Swiss cheese, depending on your preference.
When selecting a Swiss cheese for your Reuben sandwich, look for a cheese that is made with high-quality milk and has a rich, creamy flavor. You can also try using other types of cheese, such as Emmental or Gruyère, for a slightly different flavor profile.
How do I assemble 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. Top with the second slice of rye bread and grill the sandwich in a pan or skillet until it is crispy and golden brown.
When assembling the sandwich, make sure to use a generous amount of Thousand Island dressing and sauerkraut to give the sandwich plenty of flavor. You can also try adding some sliced onions or pickles to the sandwich for extra flavor and texture.
Can I make a vegetarian version of a Reuben Sandwich?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of a Reuben sandwich by substituting the corned beef with a vegetarian alternative, such as tempeh or seitan. You can also try using a portobello mushroom or a grilled eggplant slice as a substitute for the corned beef.
When making a vegetarian Reuben sandwich, make sure to use a generous amount of sauerkraut and Thousand Island dressing to give the sandwich plenty of flavor. You can also try adding some sliced onions or pickles to the sandwich for extra flavor and texture.
How do I store leftover Reuben Sandwiches?
To store leftover Reuben sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. You can also try freezing the sandwiches for up to 2 months and reheating them in a pan or skillet when you are ready to eat them.
When storing leftover Reuben sandwiches, make sure to keep them away from strong-smelling foods, as the sandwiches can absorb odors easily. You can also try wrapping the sandwiches individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to make them easier to grab and go.