The Ultimate Reuben Sandwich with Coleslaw: A Delicious Twist on a Classic

The Reuben sandwich is a beloved classic that has been satisfying 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 delis and diners everywhere. But what if you could take this already-amazing sandwich to the next level? Enter the Reuben sandwich with coleslaw, a game-changing twist that adds a refreshing crunch and a burst of flavor to this beloved classic.

A Brief History of the Reuben Sandwich

Before we dive into the world of Reuben sandwiches with coleslaw, let’s take a brief look at the origins of this iconic sandwich. The Reuben sandwich is named after Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who allegedly created the sandwich in the 1920s at his deli in New York City. However, there is some debate over whether Reuben was indeed the true creator of the sandwich, with some claiming that it was actually invented by Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-born grocer from Omaha, Nebraska.

Regardless of who actually created the Reuben sandwich, one thing is certain: it has become a beloved classic around the world, with its unique combination of flavors and textures winning over the hearts (and stomachs) of sandwich lovers everywhere.

The Anatomy of a Reuben Sandwich

So, what makes a Reuben sandwich a Reuben sandwich? Here are the key components that come together to create this delicious masterpiece:

  • Corned beef: Thinly sliced corned beef is the star of the show in a Reuben sandwich. Look for high-quality corned beef that is tender and flavorful.
  • Sauerkraut: Finely chopped sauerkraut adds a tangy, slightly sour flavor to the sandwich. You can use store-bought sauerkraut or make your own at home.
  • Swiss cheese: Melted Swiss cheese binds the sandwich together and adds a creamy, nutty flavor.
  • Thousand Island dressing: A tangy and slightly sweet Thousand Island dressing is the perfect complement to the other flavors in the sandwich.
  • Rye bread: Dense, chewy rye bread is the perfect base for a Reuben sandwich. Look for a bread that is freshly baked and has a good balance of flavors.

Adding Coleslaw to the Mix

Now that we’ve covered the basics of a traditional Reuben sandwich, let’s talk about how to take it to the next level with coleslaw. Coleslaw is a creamy, crunchy condiment made from shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and a variety of spices. It’s the perfect addition to a Reuben sandwich, adding a refreshing crunch and a burst of flavor.

To make coleslaw for your Reuben sandwich, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Simply combine all of the ingredients in a bowl and mix until they’re well combined. You can adjust the amount of mayonnaise and spices to taste.

Assembling the Perfect Reuben Sandwich with Coleslaw

Now that we’ve covered the basics of a traditional Reuben sandwich and the addition of coleslaw, let’s talk about how to assemble the perfect Reuben sandwich with coleslaw. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Start with the bread: Begin by toasting two slices of rye bread until they’re lightly browned and crispy.
  2. Add the corned beef: Thinly slice the corned beef and add it to one slice of the toasted bread.
  3. Add the sauerkraut: Finely chop the sauerkraut and add it on top of the corned beef.
  4. Add the Swiss cheese: Slice the Swiss cheese thinly and add it on top of the sauerkraut.
  5. Add the Thousand Island dressing: Spread a layer of Thousand Island dressing on top of the cheese.
  6. Add the coleslaw: Spoon a generous helping of coleslaw on top of the dressing.
  7. Top with the second slice of bread: Place the second slice of toasted bread on top of the coleslaw to complete the sandwich.

Grilling the Sandwich

To take your Reuben sandwich with coleslaw to the next level, try grilling it until it’s crispy and golden brown. Here’s how:

  1. Butter the bread: Butter the outside of the bread slices to prevent them from sticking to the grill.
  2. Grill the sandwich: Place the sandwich on a grill or grill pan and cook until it’s crispy and golden brown, flipping it halfway through.
  3. Serve and enjoy: Serve the sandwich hot and enjoy the ooey-gooey cheese and crunchy coleslaw.

Tips and Variations

Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your Reuben sandwich with coleslaw to the next level:

  • Use high-quality ingredients: The key to a great Reuben sandwich is using high-quality ingredients. Look for freshly baked rye bread, thinly sliced corned beef, and creamy coleslaw.
  • Add some spice: If you like a little heat in your Reuben sandwich, try adding some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
  • Use different types of cheese: While Swiss cheese is traditional in a Reuben sandwich, you can also try using other types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone.
  • Add some caramelized onions: Caramelized onions add a sweet and savory flavor to the sandwich. Simply cook some onions in a pan until they’re caramelized and add them to the sandwich.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making a Reuben sandwich with coleslaw:

  • Using low-quality ingredients: Using low-quality ingredients, such as stale bread or processed corned beef, can make the sandwich taste bland and unappetizing.
  • Overloading the sandwich: While it’s tempting to add a lot of ingredients to the sandwich, overloading it can make it difficult to eat and overwhelming to the palate.
  • Not grilling the sandwich: Grilling the sandwich is what makes it crispy and golden brown. Don’t skip this step!

Conclusion

The Reuben sandwich with coleslaw is a delicious twist on a classic. By adding a refreshing crunch and a burst of flavor to the traditional Reuben sandwich, you can take this beloved classic to the next level. Whether you’re a sandwich lover or just looking for a new twist on an old favorite, the Reuben sandwich with coleslaw is sure to satisfy your appetite and leave you wanting more.

IngredientsQuantity
Corned beef1 pound
Sauerkraut1 cup
Swiss cheese4 slices
Thousand Island dressing1/2 cup
Rye bread4 slices
Coleslaw1 cup

By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can create a delicious Reuben sandwich with coleslaw that is sure to impress your friends and family. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the ultimate twist on a classic sandwich!

What is a Reuben sandwich?

A Reuben sandwich is a classic American dish 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 hearty and satisfying meal. The Reuben is often associated with delis and diners, where it is a staple on many menus.

The origins of the Reuben sandwich are disputed, but it is often attributed to Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who allegedly created the dish in the early 20th century. Regardless of its origins, the Reuben has become a beloved favorite among sandwich enthusiasts and is widely enjoyed across the United States.

What makes this Reuben sandwich recipe unique?

This Reuben sandwich recipe offers a delicious twist on the classic by incorporating coleslaw into the mix. The creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and a touch of sweetness, balancing out the savory flavors of the corned beef and sauerkraut. This addition takes the traditional Reuben to a new level, making it a must-try for anyone looking to mix things up.

The coleslaw also helps to cut the richness of the sandwich, making it a more well-rounded and satisfying meal. By incorporating this extra ingredient, the recipe creates a more complex and interesting flavor profile that will keep you coming back for more.

What type of bread is best for a Reuben sandwich?

Rye bread is the traditional choice for a Reuben sandwich, and for good reason. The dense, slightly sweet bread provides a sturdy base for the filling and helps to hold everything together. Look for a high-quality rye bread that is fresh and has a good texture.

If you can’t find rye bread or prefer a different option, you can also use a crusty bread or a dense sourdough. Avoid using a light or fluffy bread, as it may not hold up to the filling. Whatever bread you choose, make sure it is toasted or grilled to bring out the best flavors.

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 other types of cheese to find your favorite. 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 try out different options.

Keep in mind that the cheese should be melted and gooey, so choose a variety that melts well. Avoid using a cheese that is too soft or too hard, as it may not melt properly. Experiment with different cheeses to find the perfect combination for your taste buds.

How do I make the coleslaw for this Reuben sandwich recipe?

The coleslaw for this Reuben sandwich recipe is made with shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and a variety of spices. Simply combine the ingredients in a bowl and mix until the cabbage is well coated. You can adjust the amount of mayonnaise and spices to taste.

For the best flavor, make the coleslaw just before assembling the sandwich. This will ensure that the flavors are fresh and the slaw is crunchy. You can also make the slaw ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a day, but it’s best served fresh.

Can I make this Reuben sandwich recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best to assemble the Reuben sandwich just before serving, you can make some of the components ahead of time. The coleslaw can be made up to a day in advance, and the corned beef can be cooked and sliced ahead of time.

However, it’s best to assemble the sandwich just before serving, as the bread can become soggy if it sits for too long. If you need to make the sandwich ahead of time, consider assembling it without the coleslaw and adding it just before serving.

What are some variations on the Reuben sandwich recipe?

There are many ways to vary the Reuben sandwich recipe to suit your tastes. Some ideas include adding sliced turkey or roast beef, using different types of cheese, or adding some diced onions or bell peppers. You can also try using different types of sauerkraut or adding some caraway seeds for extra flavor.

Another option is to use a different type of bread, such as a crusty baguette or a dense ciabatta. You can also try grilling the sandwich in a panini press for a crispy, melty exterior. Experiment with different ingredients and techniques to find your perfect Reuben sandwich.

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