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 great Reuben sandwich? Is it the quality of the ingredients, the technique of assembly, or the love and care that goes into its creation? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Reuben sandwich craftsmanship, exploring the history, ingredients, and techniques that will help you create the ultimate Reuben experience.
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 birth 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 tale points to Omaha, Nebraska, where a local grocer named Reuben Kulakofsky supposedly invented the dish in the 1930s. Regardless of its true origins, the Reuben sandwich has become an iconic symbol of American deli culture, with its popularity endearing it to generations of food enthusiasts.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
A great Reuben sandwich begins with high-quality ingredients. Here are some key components to focus on:
Corned Beef: The Star of the Show
Corned beef is the backbone of the Reuben sandwich. Look for thinly sliced, tender cuts that are low in fat and high in flavor. You can opt for store-bought corned beef or try your hand at curing and cooking your own. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider using pastrami or another cured meat as a substitute.
What to Look for in Corned Beef:
- Thinly sliced, preferably 1/8 inch or thinner
- Tender and easy to chew
- Low in fat, with a good balance of lean meat and marbling
- Rich, beefy flavor with a hint of spice
Sauerkraut: The Tangy Counterpoint
Sauerkraut adds a tangy, slightly sour flavor to the Reuben sandwich, balancing out the richness of the corned beef. Choose a high-quality sauerkraut that’s made with fresh cabbage and contains no added sugars or preservatives. You can also try using kimchi or another fermented vegetable as a substitute.
What to Look for in Sauerkraut:
- Made with fresh, crunchy cabbage
- No added sugars or preservatives
- Tangy, slightly sour flavor
- Good balance of acidity and umami
Swiss Cheese: The Melty, Creamy Element
Swiss cheese is the glue that holds the Reuben sandwich together, providing a creamy, melty texture that complements the corned beef and sauerkraut. Look for a high-quality Swiss cheese that’s rich in flavor and has a smooth, creamy texture.
What to Look for in Swiss Cheese:
- Rich, nutty flavor
- Smooth, creamy texture
- Good melting properties
- High-quality, artisanal production methods
Thousand Island Dressing: The Creamy, Tangy Sauce
Thousand Island dressing is the final component of the Reuben sandwich, adding a creamy, tangy flavor that ties everything together. You can use store-bought Thousand Island dressing or try making your own using mayonnaise, ketchup, and relish.
What to Look for in Thousand Island Dressing:
- Creamy, smooth texture
- Tangy, slightly sweet flavor
- Good balance of acidity and richness
- No high-fructose corn syrup or artificial preservatives
Assembling the Perfect Reuben Sandwich
Now that you’ve chosen your ingredients, it’s time to assemble the perfect Reuben sandwich. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a masterpiece:
Step 1: Butter the Bread
Start by buttering two slices of rye bread on the outside. This will help create a crispy, golden-brown crust when you grill the sandwich.
Step 2: Add the Corned Beef
Next, add a generous helping of corned beef to one slice of bread. Make sure to slice the corned beef thinly and evenly, so it cooks consistently.
Step 3: Add the Sauerkraut
Add a spoonful of sauerkraut on top of the corned beef, making sure to spread it evenly.
Step 4: Add the Swiss Cheese
Place a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut, making sure it’s centered and evenly distributed.
Step 5: Add the Thousand Island Dressing
Spread a layer of Thousand Island dressing on top of the cheese, making sure to cover the entire surface.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich
Place the second slice of bread, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
Step 7: Grill the Sandwich
Grill the sandwich in a pan or griddle over medium heat, cooking for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you take your Reuben sandwich to the next level:
Use a Panini Press
If you have a panini press, use it to grill your Reuben sandwich. This will help create a crispy, evenly cooked crust.
Add Some Spice
Add some spice to your Reuben sandwich by sprinkling a pinch of caraway seeds or paprika on top of the corned beef.
Use a Different Type of Cheese
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, to create a unique flavor profile.
Add Some Crunch
Add some crunch to your Reuben sandwich by sprinkling a handful of chopped pickles or onions on top of the sauerkraut.
Conclusion
The Reuben sandwich is a classic deli delight that’s easy to make and fun to eat. By choosing high-quality ingredients and following these simple steps, you can create a masterpiece that will impress even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, the Reuben sandwich is a dish that’s sure to please. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the ultimate Reuben sandwich.
What is a Reuben Sandwich?
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 combination of flavors and textures in a Reuben sandwich makes it a popular choice for many people. The sandwich is often associated with Jewish deli cuisine, but its origins are unclear.
The key to a great Reuben sandwich is using high-quality ingredients. Look for thinly sliced corned beef, fresh sauerkraut, and a good quality Swiss cheese. You’ll also want to use a flavorful Thousand Island dressing and a dense, chewy rye bread. With these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to crafting the perfect Reuben sandwich.
What type of bread is best for a Reuben Sandwich?
The best type of bread for a Reuben sandwich is a dense, chewy rye bread. This type of bread holds up well to the filling and provides a nice texture contrast to the soft corned beef and sauerkraut. Look for a bread that is made with caraway seeds, which add a nice flavor and texture to the sandwich.
You can also use a pumpernickel bread or a dark rye bread as a substitute. However, avoid using a light or fluffy bread, as it will not hold up well to the filling. You want a bread that will provide a sturdy base for the sandwich and help to keep everything together.
How do I assemble a Reuben Sandwich?
Assembling a Reuben sandwich is a straightforward process. Start by spreading a layer of Thousand Island dressing on one slice of bread. Then, add a layer of corned beef, followed by a layer of sauerkraut. Next, add a slice of Swiss cheese and top with the second slice of bread.
Make sure to assemble the sandwich in the right order, as this will help to keep everything together. You also want to make sure that the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted, so consider grilling the sandwich in a pan or under the broiler.
Can I use different types of cheese in a Reuben Sandwich?
While Swiss cheese is the traditional choice for a Reuben sandwich, you can use other types of cheese as a substitute. Some popular options include cheddar, provolone, and Gruyère. However, keep in mind that these cheeses will change the flavor and texture of the sandwich, so it may not be as authentic.
If you do decide to use a different type of cheese, make sure it is a good melting cheese. You want the cheese to be melted and gooey, as this will help to hold the sandwich together. Avoid using a cheese that is too soft or too hard, as it may not melt properly.
How do I grill a Reuben Sandwich?
Grilling a Reuben sandwich is a great way to melt the cheese and toast the bread. To grill a Reuben sandwich, start by buttering one side of each slice of bread. Then, place the sandwich in a pan or skillet over medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the other side is also toasted. You can also grill the sandwich under the broiler for a few minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted. Just be careful not to burn the bread.
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. Some popular options include tempeh, seitan, and grilled portobello mushrooms. You can also use a vegetarian corned beef substitute, such as a product made from plant-based ingredients.
Keep in mind that a vegetarian Reuben sandwich will have a different flavor and texture than a traditional Reuben sandwich. However, with the right ingredients and a little creativity, you can create a delicious and satisfying vegetarian version of this classic sandwich.
How do I store leftover Reuben Sandwiches?
If you have leftover Reuben sandwiches, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. To store a Reuben sandwich, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. You can also freeze a Reuben sandwich for up to a month, although the texture and flavor may be affected.
When you’re ready to eat a leftover Reuben sandwich, simply unwrap it and grill it in a pan or under the broiler until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted. You can also microwave a Reuben sandwich for a few seconds, although this may not produce the same crispy texture as grilling.