The Reuben sandwich is a beloved deli classic that has been satisfying hungry appetites for decades. This mouthwatering combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, grilled to perfection on rye bread, is a staple of Jewish delis and diners across the United States. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history of the Reuben sandwich, its key ingredients, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make the ultimate Reuben sandwich recipe.
A Brief History of the Reuben Sandwich
The origins of the Reuben sandwich are shrouded in mystery, with several restaurants and chefs claiming to have invented this iconic dish. One story behind the Reuben’s creation dates back to the 1920s, when a Lithuanian-born grocer named Arnold Reuben allegedly created the sandwich at his deli in New York City. According to this tale, Reuben’s original recipe consisted of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, served on rye bread with a side of Thousand Island dressing.
Another theory suggests that the Reuben sandwich was actually invented by a German-American chef named Charles Schimmel, who worked at the Blackstone Hotel in Omaha, Nebraska, in the 1920s. Schimmel’s recipe, which he called the “Reuben’s Special,” consisted of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, grilled on rye bread.
Regardless of its true origins, the Reuben sandwich has become a beloved classic around the world, with countless variations and interpretations of the original recipe.
The Key Ingredients of a Reuben Sandwich
So, what makes a Reuben sandwich truly special? The answer lies in the combination of its key ingredients, each of which plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
Corned Beef: The Star of the Show
Corned beef is the star of the Reuben sandwich, providing a rich, meaty flavor that’s both tender and juicy. When selecting corned beef for your Reuben, look for thinly sliced, high-quality meat that’s been cured in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices.
Sauerkraut: The Tangy Twist
Sauerkraut adds a tangy, slightly sour flavor to the Reuben sandwich, balancing out the richness of the corned beef. Look for high-quality sauerkraut that’s been fermented in its own juices, with a crunchy texture and a slightly sweet flavor.
Swiss Cheese: The Creamy Component
Swiss cheese provides a creamy, melted element to the Reuben sandwich, binding the other ingredients together and adding a rich, velvety texture. Look for high-quality Swiss cheese with a nutty, slightly sweet flavor.
Thousand Island Dressing: The Creamy Condiment
Thousand Island dressing is the final component of the Reuben sandwich, adding a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly. Look for high-quality Thousand Island dressing with a rich, velvety texture and a slightly sweet flavor.
Rye Bread: The Crunchy Base
Rye bread provides the crunchy base for the Reuben sandwich, with a dense, chewy texture that holds up perfectly to the other ingredients. Look for high-quality rye bread with a slightly sweet flavor and a crunchy crust.
The Ultimate Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Now that we’ve explored the key ingredients of a Reuben sandwich, it’s time to create the ultimate Reuben sandwich recipe. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the perfect Reuben:
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of rye bread
- 8 oz corned beef, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 2 tbsp Thousand Island dressing
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium heat.
- Butter one side of each slice of rye bread.
- Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, on the griddle.
- Top each slice of bread with a slice of corned beef, a spoonful of sauerkraut, and a slice of Swiss cheese.
- Spread a layer of Thousand Island dressing on top of the cheese.
- Place the remaining slices of bread, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Carefully flip the sandwiches over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the other side is also golden brown.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
While the classic Reuben sandwich recipe is a timeless favorite, there are countless ways to mix things up and create your own unique variations. Here are a few tips and ideas to get you started:
Use High-Quality Ingredients
The key to a great Reuben sandwich is using high-quality ingredients, from the corned beef to the sauerkraut to the Swiss cheese. Take the time to select the best ingredients you can find, and your Reuben will thank you.
Experiment with Different Cheeses
While Swiss cheese is the classic choice for a Reuben, there are countless other cheeses you can use to create a unique flavor profile. Try using cheddar, provolone, or even blue cheese to add a pungent twist to your Reuben.
Add Some Spice
If you like a little heat in your Reuben, try adding some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the filling. This will add a spicy kick that complements the other flavors perfectly.
Use a Panini Press
If you have a panini press, use it to make your Reuben sandwich! This will help to compress the ingredients and create a crispy, crunchy texture that’s hard to resist.
Conclusion
The Reuben sandwich is a beloved classic that’s easy to make and fun to eat. With its combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, grilled to perfection on rye bread, this sandwich is a true delight. Whether you’re a fan of the classic recipe or like to mix things up with your own unique variations, the Reuben sandwich is a must-try for anyone who loves good food. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and experience the ultimate Reuben sandwich for yourself!
What is a Reuben sandwich?
A Reuben sandwich is a classic deli favorite 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 creates a delicious and satisfying meal. The Reuben sandwich is often associated with Jewish delis, where it originated, and has since become a popular dish in many restaurants and households.
The Reuben sandwich has a rich history, dating back to the early 20th century. According to legend, the sandwich was created by Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who owned a deli in New York City. Reuben allegedly created the sandwich as a specialty item for his menu, and it quickly gained popularity among his customers.
What makes this Reuben sandwich recipe unique?
This Reuben sandwich recipe offers a delicious twist on the classic deli favorite by incorporating some unique ingredients and cooking techniques. One of the key differences is the use of house-made Thousand Island dressing, which adds a tangy and creamy element to the sandwich. Additionally, the recipe calls for caramelized onions and crispy bacon, which add a depth of flavor and texture that elevates the sandwich to a new level.
Another unique aspect of this recipe is the use of a panini press to grill the sandwich. This allows for a crispy and evenly cooked exterior, while keeping the interior warm and melty. The result is a sandwich that is both crispy and gooey, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
What type of bread is best for a Reuben sandwich?
The type of bread used for a Reuben sandwich is crucial, as it provides the foundation for the entire dish. Rye bread is the traditional choice for a Reuben, and for good reason. The dense, chewy texture and slightly sweet flavor of rye bread provide a perfect complement to the savory ingredients of the sandwich.
When selecting a rye bread, look for a dense and chewy loaf with a slightly sweet flavor. Avoid using a light or fluffy bread, as it will not hold up to the filling and may become soggy. You can also try using a pumpernickel or dark rye bread for a slightly different flavor profile.
Can I use different types of cheese in a Reuben sandwich?
While Swiss cheese is the traditional choice for a Reuben sandwich, you can experiment with different types of cheese to find the one that you like best. Some popular alternatives include cheddar, provolone, and Gruyère. Each of these cheeses will add a unique flavor profile to the sandwich, so feel free to experiment and find the one that you enjoy the most.
When selecting a cheese, consider the flavor profile and melting properties. A cheese with a strong flavor, such as cheddar or Gruyère, may overpower the other ingredients, while a milder cheese, such as provolone, may provide a creamier texture. Experiment with different cheeses to find the one that works best for you.
How do I caramelize onions for a Reuben sandwich?
Caramelizing onions is a simple process that adds a depth of flavor and sweetness to the Reuben sandwich. To caramelize onions, heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-30 minutes, or until the onions are dark brown and caramelized.
The key to caramelizing onions is to cook them slowly and patiently, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. You can also add a pinch of salt and a sprinkle of sugar to enhance the flavor and texture of the onions. Once the onions are caramelized, let them cool before adding them to the sandwich.
Can I make a vegetarian version of the Reuben sandwich?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of the Reuben sandwich by substituting the corned beef with a plant-based alternative. Some popular options include tempeh, seitan, and grilled portobello mushrooms. You can also use a vegetarian corned beef substitute, such as a tofu-based product.
When making a vegetarian Reuben, be sure to adjust the cooking time and method accordingly. For example, tempeh and seitan may require marinating and grilling, while portobello mushrooms can be grilled or sautéed. Experiment with different ingredients and cooking methods to find the vegetarian Reuben that works best for you.
How do I store leftover Reuben sandwiches?
Leftover Reuben sandwiches can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store a leftover Reuben, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate or freeze.
When reheating a leftover Reuben, you can grill the sandwich in a pan or panini press, or microwave it for a few seconds. Be sure to check the temperature and texture of the sandwich before serving, as it may require additional heating or toasting.