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 comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the steps to create the ultimate Reuben sandwich, exploring the history of this beloved dish, essential ingredients, and expert tips to elevate your sandwich game.
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 dates back to the 1920s, when Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur, allegedly served a sandwich consisting of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese to a group of hungry actors at his New York City deli. Another account 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 widespread popularity in the mid-20th century, becoming a staple of Jewish delis and diners across the United States. Today, this iconic sandwich remains a favorite among foodies and casual diners alike, with countless variations and interpretations popping up on menus worldwide.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Reuben
While the Reuben sandwich may seem like a simple combination of ingredients, the quality and authenticity of each component are crucial to its success. Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need to craft the ultimate Reuben:
Corned Beef: The Star of the Show
Corned beef is the backbone of the Reuben sandwich, providing a rich, meaty flavor and tender texture. Look for high-quality, thinly sliced corned beef from a reputable deli or butcher. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider making your own corned beef from scratch using a recipe that involves curing beef brisket in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices.
Sauerkraut: The Tangy Counterpoint
Sauerkraut, a type of fermented shredded cabbage, adds a tangy, slightly sour flavor to the Reuben sandwich. Choose a high-quality sauerkraut that’s made with fresh cabbage and contains no added sugars or preservatives. You can also make your own sauerkraut at home using a simple recipe that involves fermenting shredded cabbage in a brine solution.
Swiss Cheese: The Creamy Component
Swiss cheese, with its nutty, creamy flavor, provides a rich and indulgent element to the Reuben sandwich. Look for a high-quality Swiss cheese that’s made with cow’s milk and contains no artificial additives or preservatives.
Thousand Island Dressing: The Creamy Glue
Thousand Island dressing, a tangy and creamy condiment, serves as the glue that holds the Reuben sandwich together. You can make your own Thousand Island dressing using a simple recipe that involves combining mayonnaise, ketchup, and relish with chopped onions and hard-boiled eggs.
Rye Bread: The Crunchy Foundation
Rye bread, with its distinctive flavor and crunchy texture, provides the perfect foundation for the Reuben sandwich. Look for a high-quality rye bread that’s made with caraway seeds and contains no artificial additives or preservatives.
Assembling the Perfect Reuben
Now that you have all the essential ingredients, it’s time to assemble the perfect Reuben sandwich. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a Reuben that’s sure to impress:
Step 1: Butter the Bread
Begin by buttering one side of each slice of rye bread. This will help create a crispy, golden-brown crust when the sandwich is grilled.
Step 2: Add the Corned Beef
Next, add a generous slice of corned beef to the unbuttered side of one slice of rye bread. Make sure to trim any excess fat or connective tissue from the corned beef to ensure a tender and flavorful sandwich.
Step 3: Add the Sauerkraut
Add a generous helping of sauerkraut on top of the corned beef. You can use a slotted spoon to drain any excess liquid from the sauerkraut before adding it to the sandwich.
Step 4: Add the Swiss Cheese
Next, add a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut. Make sure to choose a cheese that’s sliced thinly and evenly to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
Step 5: Add the Thousand Island Dressing
Add a dollop of Thousand Island dressing on top of the Swiss cheese. You can use a spoon or a piping bag to apply the dressing in a smooth and even layer.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich
Finally, place the second slice of rye bread, buttered side up, on top of the sandwich. Press down gently on the sandwich to ensure that all the ingredients are securely in place.
Grilling the Perfect Reuben
Grilling the Reuben sandwich is an essential step that requires some finesse and attention to detail. Here are some expert tips to help you grill the perfect Reuben:
Use a Panini Press or Grill
A panini press or grill is the perfect tool for grilling a Reuben sandwich. These devices apply even pressure and heat to the sandwich, ensuring a crispy and golden-brown crust.
Use Medium-Low Heat
Medium-low heat is essential for grilling a Reuben sandwich. This heat setting allows the cheese to melt slowly and evenly, while the bread develops a crispy and golden-brown crust.
Grill for 3-4 Minutes
Grill the Reuben sandwich for 3-4 minutes on the first side, or until the bread develops a crispy and golden-brown crust. Flip the sandwich over and grill for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Expert Tips and Variations
While the classic Reuben sandwich is a timeless favorite, there are many ways to vary and improve this beloved dish. Here are some expert tips and variations to help you take your Reuben game to the next level:
Use House-Cured Corned Beef
House-cured corned beef is a game-changer for the Reuben sandwich. This type of corned beef is made in-house using a secret blend of spices and curing agents, resulting in a more complex and nuanced flavor profile.
Add Some Caramelized Onions
Caramelized onions add a sweet and savory element to the Reuben sandwich. Simply cook some onions in a pan with a little bit of oil until they’re soft and caramelized, then add them to the sandwich.
Use a Different Type of Cheese
While Swiss cheese is the classic choice for the Reuben sandwich, you can also use other types of cheese to create a unique and delicious variation. Some popular options include cheddar, provolone, and gouda.
Add Some Sliced Meats
Adding some sliced meats to the Reuben sandwich can add texture and flavor to this beloved dish. Some popular options include pastrami, turkey, and roast beef.
Conclusion
The Reuben sandwich is a classic deli delight that’s easy to make and fun to eat. By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can create a Reuben sandwich that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re a foodie, a deli enthusiast, or simply a lover of good food, the Reuben sandwich is a must-try dish that’s sure to become a favorite.
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.