The Reuben sandwich, a classic deli delight, has been a staple of American cuisine for nearly a century. This mouthwatering combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, grilled to perfection between slices of rye bread, is a true gastronomic treasure. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the Reuben sandwich, explore its key components, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make an original Reuben sandwich that will satisfy even the most discerning palates.
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 inception dates back to the 1920s, when Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur, allegedly created the sandwich at his eponymous deli in New York City. According to this tale, Reuben crafted the sandwich as a specialty item for his menu, combining corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese on rye bread.
Another account attributes the Reuben’s creation to Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-born grocer from Omaha, Nebraska. In the 1920s, Kulakofsky supposedly created the sandwich as part of a weekly poker game, where he would serve his friends a hearty, satisfying meal to fuel their gaming sessions.
Regardless of its true origins, the Reuben sandwich has become an integral part of American culinary culture, with its popularity endearing it to deli enthusiasts and foodies alike.
The Key Components of an Original Reuben Sandwich
So, what makes a Reuben sandwich truly original? The answer lies in its carefully selected ingredients, each of which plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
Corned Beef: The Star of the Show
Corned beef is the foundation of a classic Reuben sandwich. Look for high-quality, thinly sliced corned beef that’s been cured in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices. You can use either flat-cut or point-cut corned beef, depending on your personal preference.
What to Look for in Corned Beef:
- Thinly sliced, preferably 1/8 inch thick
- Cured in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices
- High-quality, lean cut of beef
Sauerkraut: The Tangy Counterpoint
Sauerkraut, a type of fermented shredded cabbage, adds a tangy, slightly sour flavor to the Reuben sandwich. Look for sauerkraut that’s been fermented in its own juices, without added sugars or preservatives.
What to Look for in Sauerkraut:
- Fermented in its own juices, without added sugars or preservatives
- Finely shredded, with a slightly crunchy texture
- Mildly sour, with a hint of sweetness
Swiss Cheese: The Creamy Complement
Swiss cheese, with its nutty, creamy flavor, provides a rich complement to the corned beef and sauerkraut. Look for high-quality, imported Swiss cheese, such as Emmental or Gruyère.
What to Look for in Swiss Cheese:
- High-quality, imported Swiss cheese
- Nutty, creamy flavor
- Smooth, creamy texture
Thousand Island Dressing: The Creamy Glue
Thousand Island dressing, a creamy condiment made from mayonnaise, ketchup, and relish, serves as the glue that holds the Reuben sandwich together. Look for high-quality, homemade Thousand Island dressing, or use a store-bought variety as a substitute.
What to Look for in Thousand Island Dressing:
- Creamy, tangy flavor
- Smooth, velvety texture
- Made from high-quality ingredients, such as mayonnaise, ketchup, and relish
Rye Bread: The Crunchy Foundation
Rye bread, with its distinctive flavor and crunchy texture, provides the perfect foundation for the Reuben sandwich. Look for high-quality, dense rye bread, preferably made with caraway seeds.
What to Look for in Rye Bread:
- High-quality, dense rye bread
- Distinctive flavor, with a hint of caraway seeds
- Crunchy texture, with a slightly chewy interior
A Step-by-Step Guide to Making an Original Reuben Sandwich
Now that we’ve explored the key components of an original Reuben sandwich, it’s time to assemble the perfect Reuben. Follow these steps to create a truly authentic Reuben sandwich:
Step 1: Prepare the Corned Beef
Begin by slicing the corned beef into thin strips, preferably 1/8 inch thick. You can use a meat slicer or a sharp knife to achieve the desired thickness.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauerkraut
Next, prepare the sauerkraut by rinsing it in cold water and squeezing out any excess moisture. This will help remove any excess salt and acidity from the sauerkraut.
Step 3: Assemble the Reuben Sandwich
To assemble the Reuben sandwich, begin by spreading a layer of Thousand Island dressing on one slice of rye bread. This will serve as the glue that holds the sandwich together.
Next, add a layer of corned beef on top of the dressing, followed by a layer of sauerkraut. Make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the sauerkraut before adding it to the sandwich.
Finally, add a layer of Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut, followed by the second slice of rye bread.
Step 4: Grill the Reuben Sandwich
To grill the Reuben sandwich, preheat a griddle or skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the griddle, then place the Reuben sandwich on top.
Grill the sandwich for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the Reuben sandwich is grilled to perfection, remove it from the griddle and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice the sandwich in half, then serve immediately.
Tips and Variations for the Perfect Reuben Sandwich
While the classic Reuben sandwich recipe is a timeless favorite, there are several tips and variations you can use to create the perfect Reuben sandwich:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The key to a great Reuben sandwich lies in its ingredients. Look for high-quality corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing to create a truly authentic Reuben.
- Add some spice: If you like a little heat in your Reuben sandwich, try adding some sliced jalapeños or hot mustard to the mix.
- Use a panini press: If you have a panini press, use it to grill the Reuben sandwich. This will help create a crispy, evenly cooked sandwich with a melted, gooey cheese center.
- Add some caramelized onions: Caramelized onions add a sweet, depth of flavor to the Reuben sandwich. Simply cook some onions in a pan until they’re caramelized, then add them to the sandwich.
By following these tips and variations, you can create a truly original Reuben sandwich that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Conclusion
The Reuben sandwich, a classic deli delight, is a true gastronomic treasure. By understanding its key components and following a step-by-step guide, you can create a truly original Reuben sandwich that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re a deli enthusiast or a foodie, the Reuben sandwich is a must-try culinary experience that’s sure to leave you wanting more.
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 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 sandwich in the early 20th century. Regardless of its origins, the Reuben sandwich has become a beloved classic in many parts of the world.
What type of corned beef should I use for a Reuben sandwich?
For a Reuben sandwich, it’s best to use thinly sliced corned beef that is tender and flavorful. Look for corned beef that is labeled as “flat cut” or “lean cut,” as this will be less fatty and easier to slice thinly.
You can also use homemade corned beef if you prefer, but store-bought corned beef is a convenient and delicious option. Some popular brands of corned beef include Boar’s Head and Hebrew National.
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 the combination that you enjoy the most. Some popular alternatives to Swiss cheese include cheddar, provolone, and Gruyère.
Keep in mind that the type of cheese you choose will affect the flavor and texture of the sandwich, so it’s worth trying out different options to see what works best for you. You can also combine different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.
What is the best way to cook a Reuben sandwich?
A Reuben sandwich is typically grilled or toasted to melt the cheese and warm the filling. You can use a panini press or a grill to cook the sandwich, or simply place it under the broiler for a few minutes.
Regardless of the cooking method, make sure to butter the bread on both sides to prevent it from sticking to the pan or grill. You can also add a weight to the top of the sandwich to press it down and melt the cheese evenly.
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 alternative. Some popular options include tempeh, seitan, and grilled portobello mushrooms.
You can also use vegetarian corned beef alternatives, such as those made from tofu or textured vegetable protein. Simply marinate and cook the vegetarian “corned beef” according to the package instructions, then assemble the sandwich as you would a traditional Reuben.
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 or freeze them for up to a month. To store a Reuben sandwich in the refrigerator, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the fridge.
To freeze a Reuben sandwich, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat the sandwich, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it in the microwave or oven.
Can I make Reuben sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Reuben sandwiches ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to cook them. Simply assemble the sandwiches as you would normally, but don’t cook them until you’re ready to serve.
You can also prepare the individual components of the sandwich ahead of time, such as slicing the corned beef and cheese, and assembling the sandwiches just before cooking. This can be a convenient option if you’re making a large batch of Reuben sandwiches for a party or event.