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. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the history of the Reuben, its key 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 creation dates back to the 1920s, when Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur, allegedly created the sandwich at his deli in New York City. Another story 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 popularity in the mid-20th century, becoming a staple of Jewish delis and restaurants across the United States. Today, the Reuben remains a beloved classic, enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.
Key Ingredients of a Reuben Sandwich
A traditional Reuben sandwich consists of four main ingredients:
- Corned beef: Thinly sliced, cured, and cooked to perfection, corned beef provides the protein and flavor backbone of the Reuben.
- Sauerkraut: Finely shredded and slightly sweet, sauerkraut adds a tangy, crunchy texture to the sandwich.
- Swiss cheese: Melted to perfection, Swiss cheese binds the ingredients together, adding creaminess and richness.
- Thousand Island dressing: A tangy and slightly sweet condiment, Thousand Island dressing brings all the flavors together, adding a creamy and indulgent touch.
The Importance of Rye Bread
Rye bread is an essential component of a traditional Reuben sandwich. Its distinctive flavor and texture provide a sturdy base for the other ingredients. When selecting rye bread, look for a dense, dark loaf with a slightly sweet flavor. You can also use a lighter rye bread, but the darker variety is more traditional.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Reuben Sandwich
Now that we’ve explored the history and ingredients of the Reuben, it’s time to learn how to make one. Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Reuben sandwich:
Step 1: Prepare the Corned Beef
- Slice the corned beef thinly against the grain, using a sharp knife or a meat slicer.
- Place the sliced corned beef on a plate or tray, covering it with plastic wrap to prevent drying.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauerkraut
- Drain the sauerkraut and rinse it with cold water to remove excess salt.
- Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the sauerkraut using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
- Set the sauerkraut aside, ready to use.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
- Butter one side of two slices of rye bread.
- Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Add a layer of corned beef, followed by a layer of sauerkraut, a slice of Swiss cheese, and a dollop of Thousand Island dressing.
- Top with the second slice of bread, butter-side up.
Step 4: Grill the Sandwich
- Cook the sandwich for 3-4 minutes on the first side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Carefully flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the other side is equally golden brown.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool for a minute or two.
- Slice the sandwich in half and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations
While the traditional Reuben recipe is a classic, there are many ways to experiment and create your own unique variations. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, for a unique flavor profile.
- Add some sliced onions or bell peppers to the sandwich for extra flavor and texture.
- Use a different type of bread, such as sourdough or ciabatta, for a different flavor and texture.
- Add some caraway seeds or chopped fresh dill to the sauerkraut for extra flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Reuben sandwich, there are a few common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking the corned beef, which can make it dry and tough.
- Not squeezing out enough liquid from the sauerkraut, which can make the sandwich soggy.
- Not using enough Thousand Island dressing, which can make the sandwich dry and flavorless.
Conclusion
The Reuben sandwich is a classic deli delight that has been enjoyed by generations of food lovers. With its rich history, key ingredients, and simple preparation, it’s a sandwich that’s easy to make and fun to eat. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an experimenter, the Reuben sandwich is a must-try for anyone who loves good food. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the delicious flavors and textures of this beloved classic.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Corned beef | 8 oz |
| Sauerkraut | 1 cup |
| Swiss cheese | 2 slices |
| Thousand Island dressing | 2 tbsp |
| Rye bread | 2 slices |
By following these simple steps and using the right ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect Reuben sandwich. Happy cooking!
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 sandwich is often associated with Jewish deli cuisine, and its origins are attributed to Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who allegedly created the sandwich in the early 20th century.
The key to a great Reuben sandwich is the quality of its ingredients. The corned beef should be tender and flavorful, the sauerkraut should be tangy and slightly sweet, and the Swiss cheese should be melted to perfection. The Thousand Island dressing adds a creamy and slightly sweet element to the sandwich, while the rye bread provides a sturdy base for the filling.
What type of bread is best for a Reuben Sandwich?
The best type of bread for a Reuben sandwich is rye bread. Rye bread has a distinctive flavor and texture that complements the other ingredients in the sandwich. It is denser and heavier than other types of bread, which makes it ideal for holding the filling together. Look for a dark, dense rye bread with a slightly sweet flavor to get the best results.
When choosing a rye bread, make sure to select one that is fresh and has a good texture. Avoid bread that is too dense or dry, as it can be difficult to bite into. You can also toast the bread before assembling the sandwich to give it a crispy texture and a slightly caramelized flavor.
How do I cook the corned beef for a Reuben Sandwich?
The corned beef for a Reuben sandwich can be cooked in a variety of ways, including boiling, steaming, or grilling. However, the most common method is to slice the corned beef thinly and pan-fry it until it is crispy and golden brown. This method adds a nice texture to the sandwich and helps to bring out the flavors of the corned beef.
To pan-fry the corned beef, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Slice the corned beef thinly and add it to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the corned beef is crispy and golden brown. Remove the corned beef from the skillet and set it aside to assemble the sandwich.
What is the best way to assemble a Reuben Sandwich?
The best way to assemble a Reuben sandwich is to start with a slice of rye bread, followed by a layer of corned beef, a layer of sauerkraut, a slice of Swiss cheese, and finally another slice of rye bread. The Thousand Island dressing can be spread on one or both slices of bread, depending on your preference.
When assembling the sandwich, make sure to handle the ingredients gently to avoid compacting them too much. This can make the sandwich dense and difficult to bite into. Also, make sure to leave a small border around the edges of the bread to allow for even cooking and to prevent the filling from spilling out.
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 to Swiss cheese include cheddar, provolone, and Gruyère. Each of these cheeses has a unique flavor and texture that can add a new dimension to the sandwich.
When choosing a different type of cheese, keep in mind that it should melt well and have a flavor that complements the other ingredients in the sandwich. Avoid using cheeses that are too strong or overpowering, as they can overwhelm the other flavors in the sandwich.
How do I grill a Reuben Sandwich?
To grill a Reuben sandwich, start by preheating a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Butter one side of each slice of rye bread, then place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet. Top with a layer of corned beef, a layer of sauerkraut, a slice of Swiss cheese, and finally another slice of rye bread, butter-side up.
Cook the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes on the first side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Carefully flip the sandwich over and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the other side is also golden brown. Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
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 plant-based ingredient. Some popular options include grilled portobello mushrooms, sautéed spinach, and sliced tempeh. You can also use a vegetarian corned beef substitute, such as seitan or textured vegetable protein.
When making a vegetarian Reuben sandwich, keep in mind that the key is to find an ingredient that has a similar texture and flavor to corned beef. You can also experiment with different combinations of ingredients to find the one that you like best.