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 sandwich is often associated with Jewish deli cuisine, and its origins are attributed to Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who allegedly created the sandwich in the early 20th century.
The key to making 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 creating a delicious 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. Rye bread has a distinctive flavor that complements the other ingredients in the sandwich, and its dense texture holds up well to the filling. Look for a bread that is made with caraway seeds, which add a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the bread. You can also use a pumpernickel bread or a dark rye bread, but a classic rye bread is the most traditional choice.
When selecting a rye bread, look for one that is freshly baked and has a good texture. Avoid breads that are too dense or dry, as they can be difficult to bite into. You can also toast the bread before assembling the sandwich to give it a crispy texture.
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 rye bread. This will help hold the filling in place and add flavor to the sandwich. Next, add a layer of corned beef, followed by a layer of sauerkraut. You can use a generous amount of sauerkraut, but be careful not to overdo it, as it can make the sandwich too soggy.
Finally, add a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut. You can use a single slice of cheese or multiple slices, depending on your preference. Place the second slice of rye bread on top of the cheese to complete the sandwich. You can grill the sandwich in a pan or under the broiler to melt the cheese and toast the bread.
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 alternatives include cheddar cheese, provolone cheese, and Gruyère cheese. Each of these cheeses has a unique flavor that can add a different twist to the sandwich.
However, keep in mind that using a different type of cheese can alter the flavor profile of the sandwich. Swiss cheese has a mild, nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients in the sandwich. If you choose to use a different type of cheese, you may need to adjust the amount of Thousand Island dressing or sauerkraut to balance out the flavors.
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 preheating a pan or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the pan to prevent the sandwich from sticking. Place the sandwich in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the other side is also golden brown. You can also grill the sandwich under the broiler for a crispy texture. Keep an eye on the sandwich while it’s grilling, as the cheese can melt quickly and the bread can burn.
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 ingredient. Some popular alternatives include grilled portobello mushrooms, sautéed spinach, and sliced tempeh. You can also use a vegetarian corned beef substitute, such as seitan or textured vegetable protein.
When making a vegetarian Reuben sandwich, keep in mind that the flavor profile may be different from the traditional version. You can adjust the amount of Thousand Island dressing and sauerkraut to balance out the flavors. You can also add other ingredients, such as sliced avocado or grilled bell peppers, to add texture and flavor to the sandwich.
How do I store leftover Reuben Sandwiches?
If you have leftover Reuben sandwiches, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To store the sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the sandwiches for up to 2 months. To freeze the sandwiches, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
When you’re ready to eat the sandwiches, you can thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature. You can also reheat the sandwiches in the microwave or under the broiler to melt the cheese and toast the bread. Keep in mind that the sandwiches may not be as crispy as when they were first made, but they should still be delicious.