The Reuben sandwich is a classic American dish that has been a staple in delis and restaurants for decades. This mouth-watering sandwich consists of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, all grilled to perfection on rye bread. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of making the perfect Reuben sandwich, including the history of the dish, the ingredients you’ll need, and some expert tips to take your sandwich game to the next level.
A Brief History of the Reuben Sandwich
The origins of the Reuben sandwich are shrouded in mystery, but the most widely accepted story is that it was created in the 1920s by Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur in New York City. According to legend, Reuben created the sandwich as a way to serve his customers a hearty, filling meal that was easy to eat on the go. The original Reuben sandwich consisted of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, all grilled on rye bread.
Over time, the Reuben sandwich gained popularity across the United States, and it became a staple in delis and restaurants. Today, the Reuben sandwich is enjoyed by people all over the world, and it remains one of the most beloved sandwiches in American cuisine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the perfect Reuben sandwich, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 slices of rye bread
- 8 ounces of corned beef
- 1 cup of sauerkraut
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup of Thousand Island dressing
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Choosing the Right Corned Beef
When it comes to choosing the right corned beef for your Reuben sandwich, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, look for corned beef that is labeled as “flat cut” or “thinly sliced.” This type of corned beef is easier to slice and will be more tender than thicker cuts.
Second, choose corned beef that is made from high-quality beef. Look for products that are labeled as “USDA prime” or “grass-fed.” These products will have a more complex flavor profile and a tender texture.
Finally, consider using house-cured corned beef. House-cured corned beef is made in-house by the deli or restaurant, and it is typically made with higher-quality ingredients and more care than mass-produced corned beef.
Preparing the Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is a key ingredient in the Reuben sandwich, and it’s essential to prepare it correctly. To prepare the sauerkraut, simply drain the liquid from the jar and rinse the sauerkraut with cold water. This will help to remove excess salt and acidity from the sauerkraut.
Next, squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the sauerkraut using a cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel. This will help to prevent the sauerkraut from making the sandwich soggy.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that you have all of your ingredients ready, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here’s a step-by-step guide to assembling the perfect Reuben sandwich:
Buttering the Bread
The first step in assembling the Reuben sandwich is to butter the bread. Take two slices of rye bread and butter one side of each slice with unsalted butter. This will help to create a crispy, golden-brown crust on the bread.
Adding the Corned Beef
Next, add 2-3 slices of corned beef to one slice of bread. Make sure to slice the corned beef thinly and evenly, so that it’s easy to bite into.
Adding the Sauerkraut
After adding the corned beef, add a layer of sauerkraut on top. Make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the sauerkraut before adding it to the sandwich.
Adding the Swiss Cheese
Next, add two slices of Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut. Swiss cheese is a key ingredient in the Reuben sandwich, and it adds a rich, creamy flavor to the dish.
Adding the Thousand Island Dressing
After adding the Swiss cheese, add a layer of Thousand Island dressing on top. Thousand Island dressing is a tangy, creamy condiment that adds a rich flavor to the Reuben sandwich.
Assembling the Sandwich
Finally, place the second slice of bread on top of the sandwich, buttered side up. This will help to create a crispy, golden-brown crust on the bread.
Grilling the Sandwich
Now that you’ve assembled the sandwich, it’s time to grill it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to grilling the perfect Reuben sandwich:
Preheating the Grill
The first step in grilling the Reuben sandwich is to preheat the grill. You can use either a panini press or a grill pan to grill the sandwich. If you’re using a panini press, preheat it to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan, preheat it over medium-high heat.
Grilling the Sandwich
Once the grill is preheated, place the sandwich on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side. This will help to create a crispy, golden-brown crust on the bread.
Pressing the Sandwich
If you’re using a panini press, press down on the sandwich gently to help create a crispy crust. If you’re using a grill pan, use a spatula to press down on the sandwich gently.
Expert Tips for Making the Perfect Reuben Sandwich
Here are a few expert tips for making the perfect Reuben sandwich:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The key to making a great Reuben sandwich is to use high-quality ingredients. Look for corned beef that is labeled as “USDA prime” or “grass-fed,” and choose sauerkraut that is made with high-quality ingredients.
- Slice the corned beef thinly: Slicing the corned beef thinly will help to make it easier to bite into and will also help to create a more even texture.
- Squeeze out excess liquid from the sauerkraut: Squeezing out excess liquid from the sauerkraut will help to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy.
- Use the right type of cheese: Swiss cheese is a key ingredient in the Reuben sandwich, and it adds a rich, creamy flavor to the dish.
- Grill the sandwich at the right temperature: Grilling the sandwich at the right temperature will help to create a crispy, golden-brown crust on the bread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making a Reuben sandwich:
- Using low-quality ingredients: Using low-quality ingredients will result in a sandwich that is lacking in flavor and texture.
- Not slicing the corned beef thinly: Not slicing the corned beef thinly will make it difficult to bite into and will also create an uneven texture.
- Not squeezing out excess liquid from the sauerkraut: Not squeezing out excess liquid from the sauerkraut will result in a soggy sandwich.
- Grilling the sandwich at the wrong temperature: Grilling the sandwich at the wrong temperature will result in a sandwich that is either undercooked or overcooked.
Conclusion
The Reuben sandwich is a classic American dish that is easy to make and delicious to eat. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a Reuben sandwich that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Remember to use high-quality ingredients, slice the corned beef thinly, and grill the sandwich at the right temperature. With a little practice, you’ll be making Reuben sandwiches like a pro in no time.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rye bread | 4 slices |
| Corned beef | 8 ounces |
| Sauerkraut | 1 cup |
| Swiss cheese | 4 slices |
| Thousand Island dressing | 1/4 cup |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons |
By following the steps outlined in this article and using the ingredients listed in the table above, you’ll be able to create a delicious Reuben sandwich that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
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 origins of the Reuben sandwich are unclear, 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 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 also a traditional choice for Reuben sandwiches, and many people associate the flavor of rye bread with the classic Reuben.
When choosing a rye bread for your Reuben sandwich, look for a bread that is dense and chewy, with a slightly sweet flavor. You can also consider using a bread that is specifically labeled as “Reuben bread” or “deli rye,” as these breads are often formulated to pair well with the ingredients in a Reuben sandwich.
How do I cook the corned beef for a Reuben sandwich?
There are several ways to cook the corned beef for a Reuben sandwich, but one of the most popular methods is to slice the corned beef thinly and cook it in a pan with a small amount of oil until it is crispy and golden brown. This method helps to bring out the flavor of the corned beef and adds texture to the sandwich.
Alternatively, you can also cook the corned beef in a slow cooker or oven until it is tender and flavorful. This method is great for cooking larger quantities of corned beef, and it can be a convenient option if you are making Reuben sandwiches for a crowd.
What type of cheese is best for a Reuben sandwich?
The best type of cheese for a Reuben sandwich is Swiss cheese. Swiss cheese has a mild, nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients in the sandwich, and it melts well when grilled. You can use either sliced or shredded Swiss cheese, depending on your preference.
When choosing a Swiss cheese for your Reuben sandwich, look for a cheese that is labeled as “Emmental” or “Gruyère,” as these types of cheese have a rich, nutty flavor that pairs well with the corned beef and sauerkraut.
How do I assemble a Reuben sandwich?
To assemble a Reuben sandwich, start by spreading a layer of Thousand Island dressing on one slice of rye bread. Next, add a layer of corned beef, followed by a layer of sauerkraut and a slice of Swiss cheese. Top with the second slice of rye bread.
When assembling the sandwich, be sure to press down gently on the bread to help the ingredients stick together. You can also consider grilling the sandwich in a pan or under the broiler until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Can I customize a Reuben sandwich to suit my tastes?
Yes, you can customize a Reuben sandwich to suit your tastes. Some popular variations include adding sliced turkey or roast beef to the sandwich, using different types of cheese or bread, or adding additional toppings such as coleslaw or pickles.
When customizing a Reuben sandwich, be sure to balance the flavors and textures so that the sandwich doesn’t become too overwhelming. You can also consider using different types of sauerkraut or Thousand Island dressing to add more flavor to the sandwich.
How do I store leftover Reuben sandwiches?
To store leftover Reuben sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. You can also consider freezing the sandwiches for up to 2 months, although the texture and flavor may be affected.
When reheating leftover Reuben sandwiches, be sure to grill or toast the bread until it is crispy, and heat the filling until it is warm and melted. You can also consider microwaving the sandwich for a few seconds to warm it up, although this method may not produce the same crispy texture as grilling or toasting.