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. But what makes a Reuben truly exceptional? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Reuben craftsmanship, exploring the history, ingredients, and techniques that will elevate your sandwich game to new heights.
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 in New York City, allegedly created the sandwich as a specialty item for his menu. Another tale points to Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-born grocer in Omaha, Nebraska, who supposedly invented the sandwich in the 1930s as a way to use up leftover corned beef.
Regardless of its true origins, the Reuben sandwich gained popularity in the mid-20th century, becoming a staple of Jewish delis and diners across the United States. Today, it remains a beloved classic, with variations and interpretations popping up on menus worldwide.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
A great Reuben sandwich begins with high-quality ingredients. Here are some key components to focus on:
Corned Beef: The Star of the Show
Corned beef is the backbone of a Reuben sandwich. Look for thinly sliced, tender cuts that are low in fat and high in flavor. You can use either flat-cut or point-cut corned beef, depending on your preference. Flat-cut corned beef is leaner and more uniform in texture, while point-cut corned beef is fattier and more tender.
Brands to Consider:
- Boar’s Head
- Katz’s Delicatessen
- Carnegie Deli
Sauerkraut: The Tangy Counterpoint
Sauerkraut adds a tangy, slightly sour flavor to the Reuben sandwich. Look for a high-quality, store-bought sauerkraut that’s made with fresh cabbage and minimal added ingredients. You can also make your own sauerkraut at home using a simple recipe.
Brands to Consider:
- Bubbies
- Claussen
- Eden Foods
Swiss Cheese: The Melty, Creamy Element
Swiss cheese is the glue that holds the Reuben sandwich together. Look for a high-quality, nutty Swiss cheese that melts well and adds depth to the sandwich.
Brands to Consider:
- Emmental
- Gruyère
- Jarlsberg
Thousand Island Dressing: The Creamy, Tangy Sauce
Thousand Island dressing is the secret ingredient that takes the Reuben sandwich to the next level. Look for a high-quality, store-bought dressing that’s made with fresh ingredients and minimal added preservatives. You can also make your own Thousand Island dressing at home using a simple recipe.
Brands to Consider:
- Duke’s
- Hellmann’s
- Ken’s Steak House
Rye Bread: The Crunchy, Chewy Foundation
Rye bread is the foundation of the Reuben sandwich. Look for a high-quality, dense rye bread that’s made with fresh ingredients and minimal added preservatives.
Brands to Consider:
- Arnold’s
- Pepperidge Farm
- Rudi’s
Assembling the Perfect Reuben Sandwich
Now that you’ve got your ingredients, it’s time to assemble the perfect Reuben sandwich. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Butter the Bread
Butter one side of each slice of rye bread. This will help create a crispy, golden-brown crust when you grill the sandwich.
Step 2: Add the Corned Beef
Add 2-3 slices of corned beef to one slice of bread, depending on your desired level of meatiness.
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 excess liquid from the sauerkraut before adding it to the sandwich.
Step 4: Add the Swiss Cheese
Add 1-2 slices of Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut. You can use a cheese slicer to get thin, even slices.
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 get a neat, even layer.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich
Place the second slice of bread, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
Step 7: Grill the Sandwich
Grill the sandwich in a pan or griddle over medium heat until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. You can use a panini press or a grill to get a crispy, evenly cooked sandwich.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you take your Reuben sandwich game to the next level:
Use a Panini Press
A panini press is a game-changer for Reuben sandwiches. It helps create a crispy, evenly cooked crust that’s hard to achieve with a pan or griddle.
Add Some Spice
Add some spice to your Reuben sandwich with a pinch of caraway seeds or a sprinkle of paprika. You can also use a spicy mustard or a tangy pickle relish to add some extra flavor.
Use a Different Type of Cheese
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, provolone, or gouda. Each cheese will add a unique flavor and texture to the sandwich.
Add Some Fresh Herbs
Add some fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, to the sandwich for a bright, refreshing flavor.
Conclusion
The Reuben sandwich is a classic deli delight that’s easy to make and fun to customize. With high-quality ingredients and a few simple techniques, you can create a Reuben sandwich that’s truly exceptional. Whether you’re a deli aficionado or a sandwich newbie, this guide will help you take your Reuben game to the next level. So go ahead, get creative, and make your own perfect Reuben sandwich today!
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.