The Reuben sandwich is a classic American dish that has been a staple in many restaurants and households for decades. This mouth-watering sandwich typically consists of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing, all piled high on rye bread and grilled to perfection. In this article, we will explore the history of the Reuben sandwich, its various components, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make the ultimate Reuben sandwich with sauerkraut.
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 the dish. One story behind the Reuben sandwich dates back to the 1920s, when a German-American restaurateur named Arnold Reuben allegedly created the sandwich at his deli in New York City. According to this story, Reuben was looking to create a new sandwich that would appeal to his Jewish customers, who were looking for a dish that was both flavorful and kosher.
Another story behind the Reuben sandwich claims that it was invented by a chef named Charles Schimmel, who worked at the Blackstone Hotel in Omaha, Nebraska. According to this story, Schimmel created the sandwich in the 1930s as a way to use up leftover corned beef and sauerkraut.
Regardless of its true origins, the Reuben sandwich has become a beloved dish around the world, with its unique combination of flavors and textures making it a staple in many restaurants and households.
The Components of a Reuben Sandwich
So, what makes a Reuben sandwich a Reuben sandwich? The answer lies in its four main components: corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing.
Corned Beef: The Star of the Show
Corned beef is the star of the Reuben sandwich, providing a rich, meaty flavor that is both tender and juicy. When selecting corned beef for your Reuben sandwich, look for a high-quality cut that is both lean and flavorful. You can either use store-bought corned beef or make your own at home using a recipe that involves soaking beef brisket in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices.
Swiss Cheese: The Melty, Creamy Component
Swiss cheese is another essential component of the Reuben sandwich, providing a melty, creamy texture that complements the corned beef perfectly. When selecting Swiss cheese for your Reuben sandwich, look for a high-quality variety that is both nutty and flavorful.
Sauerkraut: The Tangy, Crunchy Component
Sauerkraut is a tangy, crunchy component that adds a burst of flavor to the Reuben sandwich. When selecting sauerkraut for your Reuben sandwich, look for a high-quality variety that is both tangy and crunchy. You can either use store-bought sauerkraut or make your own at home using a recipe that involves fermenting shredded cabbage in a mixture of salt and spices.
Thousand Island Dressing: The Creamy, Tangy Component
Thousand Island dressing is a creamy, tangy component that adds a rich, velvety texture to the Reuben sandwich. When selecting Thousand Island dressing for your Reuben sandwich, look for a high-quality variety that is both creamy and tangy.
How to Make the Ultimate Reuben Sandwich with Sauerkraut
Now that we have explored the components of a Reuben sandwich, it’s time to learn how to make the ultimate Reuben sandwich with sauerkraut. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious sandwich:
Step 1: Prepare the Corned Beef
To prepare the corned beef, slice it thinly against the grain using a sharp knife. You can either use store-bought corned beef or make your own at home using a recipe that involves soaking beef brisket in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauerkraut
To prepare the sauerkraut, drain it thoroughly and squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve. You can either use store-bought sauerkraut or make your own at home using a recipe that involves fermenting shredded cabbage in a mixture of salt and spices.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
To assemble the sandwich, lay two slices of rye bread on a flat surface. Spread a layer of Thousand Island dressing on each slice of bread, followed by a layer of corned beef, a layer of sauerkraut, and a layer of Swiss cheese.
Step 4: Grill the Sandwich
To grill the sandwich, place it in a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
To serve and enjoy your Reuben sandwich, slice it in half and serve it immediately. You can either serve it on its own or with a side of fries, coleslaw, or a salad.
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Corned Beef | 8 oz |
| Sauerkraut | 1 cup |
| Swiss Cheese | 2 slices |
| Thousand Island Dressing | 2 tbsp |
| Rye Bread | 2 slices |
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you make the ultimate Reuben sandwich with sauerkraut:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The key to making a great Reuben sandwich is to use high-quality ingredients. Look for a high-quality cut of corned beef, a tangy and crunchy sauerkraut, and a creamy and tangy Thousand Island dressing.
- Add some spice: If you like a little heat in your Reuben sandwich, add some sliced jalapenos or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
- Use a panini press: If you have a panini press, use it to grill your Reuben sandwich. This will help to melt the cheese and crisp up the bread.
- Add some caramelized onions: Caramelized onions add a sweet and savory flavor to the Reuben sandwich. Simply cook some sliced onions in a pan until they are caramelized and add them to the sandwich.
Conclusion
The Reuben sandwich is a classic American dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. With its unique combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing, this sandwich is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can make the ultimate Reuben sandwich with sauerkraut that is sure to impress your friends and family. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious taste of this classic American dish.
What is a Reuben sandwich and how did it originate?
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 origins of the Reuben sandwich are not well-documented, but it is often attributed to Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who allegedly created the dish in the early 20th century.
Despite its unclear origins, the Reuben sandwich has become a beloved classic in American cuisine, with many variations and interpretations popping up in restaurants and delis across the country. The combination of salty corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy cheese has proven to be a winning formula, and the Reuben remains a popular choice for sandwich enthusiasts.
What type of sauerkraut is best for a Reuben sandwich?
When it comes to choosing the right sauerkraut for a Reuben sandwich, look for a variety that is finely shredded and has a tangy, slightly sweet flavor. Some popular types of sauerkraut that work well in Reuben sandwiches include traditional German-style sauerkraut, made with caraway seeds and a hint of spice, and a milder, sweeter variety made with apples or other fruits.
Avoid using sauerkraut that is too coarse or chunky, as it can be difficult to distribute evenly throughout the sandwich. You can also try making your own sauerkraut at home using a recipe that includes ingredients like cabbage, salt, and caraway seeds.
Can I use different types of cheese in a Reuben sandwich?
While Swiss cheese is the traditional choice for Reuben sandwiches, you can experiment with other types of cheese to find the combination that you enjoy the most. Some popular alternatives to Swiss cheese include cheddar, provolone, and Gruyère, each of which adds a unique flavor and texture to the sandwich.
If you’re looking for a more authentic Reuben experience, you might consider using a type of cheese that is similar to Swiss, such as Emmental or Gruyère. These cheeses have a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the corned beef and sauerkraut.
How do I assemble a Reuben sandwich?
Assembling a Reuben sandwich is a straightforward process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic kitchen tools. Start by buttering two slices of rye bread, then layer on the corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese. Spread a layer of Thousand Island dressing on top of the cheese, then place the second slice of bread on top.
To grill the sandwich, place it in a skillet or griddle over medium heat and cook for several minutes on each side, until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. You can also use a panini press or grill to make the sandwich, which can help to melt the cheese and crisp the bread.
Can I make a Reuben sandwich in advance?
While it’s best to assemble and grill a Reuben sandwich just before serving, you can prepare some of the ingredients in advance to make the process easier. For example, you can slice the corned beef and cheese, and prepare the sauerkraut, several hours before assembling the sandwich.
However, it’s best to avoid assembling the sandwich too far in advance, as the bread can become soggy and the cheese can start to melt. If you need to make the sandwich ahead of time, consider assembling it just before grilling, or using a technique like grilling the bread separately before assembling the sandwich.
What are some variations on the classic Reuben sandwich?
While the classic Reuben sandwich is a timeless favorite, there are many ways to vary the recipe and make it your own. Some popular variations include adding sliced turkey or roast beef to the sandwich, using different types of cheese or sauerkraut, or adding some caramelized onions or bell peppers for extra flavor.
You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as sourdough or ciabatta, or try using a panini press or grill to make the sandwich. Another option is to make a vegetarian version of the Reuben, using ingredients like grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted eggplant instead of corned beef.
How do I store leftover Reuben sandwiches?
If you have leftover Reuben sandwiches, you can store them in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. To keep the sandwiches fresh, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a sealed container.
When you’re ready to serve the sandwiches, simply unwrap them and grill them in a skillet or griddle until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. You can also reheat the sandwiches in a microwave or oven, although this may not produce the same crispy texture as grilling.