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 between slices of 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 between slices of 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 is considered one of the greatest sandwiches of all time, and its popularity shows no signs of waning.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the perfect Reuben sandwich, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 slices of rye bread
- 8 oz corned beef, thinly sliced
- 1 cup of sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 4 slices of Swiss cheese
- 2 tbsp of Thousand Island dressing
- 2 tbsp of unsalted butter, softened
- 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. This type of corned beef is made in-house by the deli or restaurant, and it will have a more nuanced flavor profile than mass-produced corned beef.
Preparing the Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is a key component of the Reuben sandwich, and it’s essential to prepare it properly. To prepare the sauerkraut, simply drain and rinse it in cold water. This will help to remove excess salt and vinegar from the sauerkraut, which can make the sandwich taste too salty or sour.
Once the sauerkraut is drained and rinsed, squeeze out as much liquid as possible using a cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel. This will help to remove excess moisture from the sauerkraut, which can make the sandwich soggy.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that you have all of the 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 spread a layer of unsalted butter on each slice. This will help to create a crispy crust on the bread and add flavor to the sandwich.
Adding the Corned Beef
Next, add a layer of corned beef to each slice of bread. Make sure to slice the corned beef thinly, as this will help to create a tender and flavorful sandwich.
Adding the Sauerkraut
Once the corned beef is in place, add a layer of sauerkraut on top of the corned beef. 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 a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut. Swiss cheese is a key component of the Reuben sandwich, and it adds a creamy, nutty flavor to the dish.
Adding the Thousand Island Dressing
Finally, add a layer of Thousand Island dressing on top of the Swiss cheese. Thousand Island dressing is a tangy, creamy condiment that adds a rich flavor to the Reuben sandwich.
Grilling the Sandwich
Now that the sandwich is assembled, it’s time to grill it. To grill the sandwich, place it in a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the sandwich for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Using a Panini Press
If you have a panini press, you can use it to grill the sandwich. Simply place the sandwich in the press and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Using a Grill
If you prefer to grill the sandwich outdoors, you can use a grill to cook the sandwich. Simply place the sandwich on the grill and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
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 from fresh cabbage.
- Don’t overdo it on the sauerkraut: While sauerkraut is a key component of the Reuben sandwich, too much of it can make the sandwich taste too salty or sour. Use a moderate amount of sauerkraut and make sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible before adding it to the sandwich.
- Use the right type of cheese: Swiss cheese is the traditional cheese used in Reuben sandwiches, and it’s essential to use a high-quality Swiss cheese to get the right flavor.
- Grill the sandwich slowly: Grilling the sandwich slowly over medium heat will help to create a crispy crust on the bread and melt the cheese evenly.
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 the perfect Reuben sandwich that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a deli owner looking to add a new sandwich to your menu or a home cook looking to impress your friends and family, the Reuben sandwich is a great choice. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the delicious flavor of this American classic.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rye bread | 4 slices |
| Corned beef | 8 oz |
| Sauerkraut | 1 cup |
| Swiss cheese | 4 slices |
| Thousand Island dressing | 2 tbsp |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tbsp |
- Butter the bread
- Add a layer of corned beef
- Add a layer of sauerkraut
- Add a slice of Swiss cheese
- Add a layer of Thousand Island dressing
- Grill the sandwich
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.