The Reuben sandwich, a classic combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, grilled to perfection between slices of rye bread, is a staple of delis and diners everywhere. But what sets a great Reuben apart from a good one? The answer lies in the quality of the ingredients, the attention to detail in preparation, and the technique used to bring it all together. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to create the best Reuben sandwich ever, with expert tips and tricks to elevate this beloved dish to new heights.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
The foundation of a great Reuben is the quality of its components. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Corned beef: Thinly sliced, tender, and flavorful, corned beef is the star of the show. Look for a high-quality, house-cured variety or opt for a reputable brand.
- Sauerkraut: Finely shredded and tangy, sauerkraut adds a nice crunch and a burst of flavor. Choose a fresh, refrigerated variety or make your own.
- Swiss cheese: Nutty, creamy, and melted to perfection, Swiss cheese is the glue that holds the Reuben together. Opt for a high-quality, imported variety.
- Thousand Island dressing: A tangy, creamy condiment that adds depth and richness to the sandwich. Make your own or choose a reputable brand.
- Rye bread: Dense, chewy, and slightly sweet, rye bread is the perfect vessel for the Reuben’s fillings. Look for a high-quality, artisanal variety or bake your own.
The Importance of Bread
Rye bread is a crucial component of the Reuben, providing a sturdy base for the fillings and a satisfying crunch. When selecting a rye bread, look for the following characteristics:
- Density: A good rye bread should be dense and chewy, with a tight crumb that can hold up to the fillings.
- Flavor: A slightly sweet, earthy flavor is ideal, with a hint of caraway or coriander for added depth.
- Texture: A crispy crust and a soft interior are essential for a great Reuben.
Homemade Rye Bread Recipe
If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own rye bread from scratch. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rye flour | 2 cups |
| Caraway seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Active dry yeast | 1 packet |
| Water | 1 cup |
Combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl, then add the yeast and water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Let rise for 1 hour, then shape into a round loaf and bake at 375°F for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Assembling the Reuben
Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to assemble the Reuben. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Butter the Bread
Butter one side of each slice of rye bread, making sure to cover the entire surface. This will help create a crispy, golden-brown crust.
Step 2: Add the Corned Beef
Thinly slice the corned beef against the grain, using a sharp knife or a meat slicer. You’ll want to aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick.
Step 3: Add the Sauerkraut
Finely shred the sauerkraut and squeeze out as much liquid as possible. You want the sauerkraut to be dry and crunchy, not soggy.
Step 4: Add the Swiss Cheese
Thinly slice the Swiss cheese, using a sharp knife or a cheese slicer. You’ll want to aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick.
Step 5: Add the Thousand Island Dressing
Spread a thin layer of Thousand Island dressing on top of the cheese, making sure to cover the entire surface.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich
Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a slice of corned beef, a spoonful of sauerkraut, a slice of Swiss cheese, and a dollop of Thousand Island dressing. Top with the second slice of bread, butter-side up.
Cooking the Reuben
Cooking the Reuben is an art that requires patience and attention to detail. Here’s how to get it just right:
Step 1: Cook the First Side
Cook the first side of the Reuben for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. You’ll know it’s ready when the bread starts to develop a crispy crust.
Step 2: Flip the Reuben
Carefully flip the Reuben over and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the second side is equally golden brown.
Step 3: Let it Rest
Once the Reuben is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the cheese to set and the flavors to meld together.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to take your Reuben to the next level:
- Use a panini press: If you have a panini press, use it to cook the Reuben. The pressure will help melt the cheese and crisp the bread.
- Add some spice: Add a pinch of caraway seeds or a sprinkle of paprika to give the Reuben a bit of extra flavor.
- Use a different type of cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, to find the perfect combination.
- Add some caramelized onions: Caramelize some onions and add them to the Reuben for a sweet and savory twist.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating the best Reuben sandwich ever. Remember, the key to a great Reuben is the quality of the ingredients and the attention to detail in preparation. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be crafting Reubens like a pro in no time.
What is a Reuben sandwich and where did it originate?
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 origins of the Reuben sandwich are often disputed, but it is commonly attributed to Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who allegedly created the dish in the early 20th century at his deli in New York City.
However, some sources also claim that the Reuben sandwich was actually invented by Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-born grocer from Omaha, Nebraska, who created the dish in the 1920s as part of a weekly poker game at the Blackstone Hotel. Regardless of its true origins, the Reuben sandwich has become a beloved classic around the world, and its popularity endures to this day.
What type of bread is best for a Reuben sandwich?
When it comes to building the perfect Reuben sandwich, the type of bread used is crucial. Rye bread is the traditional choice for a Reuben, and for good reason. The dense, slightly sweet flavor of rye bread provides a perfect complement to the savory flavors of the corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese. Look for a high-quality, dense rye bread that is fresh and has a good texture.
Avoid using a light or fluffy bread, as it will not hold up well to the filling and may become soggy. You can also consider using a pumpernickel or dark rye bread for added depth of flavor. Whatever type of bread you choose, make sure it is sliced thickly and toasted or grilled until crispy to add texture to the sandwich.
How do I prepare the corned beef for a Reuben sandwich?
Preparing the corned beef is a crucial step in building the perfect Reuben sandwich. Look for a high-quality corned beef that is thinly sliced and has a good balance of flavor and texture. You can use either a store-bought corned beef or make your own by slow-cooking a brisket in a flavorful broth.
To prepare the corned beef, slice it thinly against the grain and trim any excess fat. You can also consider grilling or pan-frying the corned beef to add a crispy texture and caramelized flavor. However, be careful not to overcook the corned beef, as it can become dry and tough.
What type of cheese is best for a Reuben sandwich?
The type of cheese used in a Reuben sandwich is a matter of personal preference, but Swiss cheese is the traditional choice. The nutty, slightly sweet flavor of Swiss cheese provides a perfect complement to the savory flavors of the corned beef and sauerkraut. Look for a high-quality Swiss cheese that is sliced thinly and has a good texture.
You can also consider using other types of cheese, such as Emmental or Gruyère, for added depth of flavor. However, avoid using a strong or pungent cheese, as it may overpower the other flavors in the sandwich. Whatever type of cheese you choose, make sure it is melted until gooey and bubbly to add creaminess to the sandwich.
How do I assemble the perfect Reuben sandwich?
Assembling the perfect Reuben sandwich requires a bit of finesse, but the basic steps are straightforward. Start by spreading a layer of Thousand Island dressing on one slice of bread, followed by a layer of corned beef, a layer of sauerkraut, and a layer of cheese. Top with the second slice of bread and grill or toast until crispy and golden brown.
The key to assembling a great Reuben sandwich is to balance the flavors and textures of the ingredients. Make sure each bite has a good balance of corned beef, sauerkraut, cheese, and dressing, and that the bread is crispy and golden brown. You can also consider adding other ingredients, such as sliced onions or pickles, to add extra flavor and texture.
Can I make a vegetarian version of the Reuben sandwich?
While traditional Reuben sandwiches are made with corned beef, it is possible to make a vegetarian version by substituting the corned beef with a plant-based alternative. Some options include marinated and grilled portobello mushrooms, sliced eggplant, or grilled tofu. You can also use a vegetarian corned beef substitute, such as seitan or tempeh.
When making a vegetarian Reuben sandwich, be sure to balance the flavors and textures of the ingredients to create a satisfying and filling sandwich. You can also consider adding other ingredients, such as sliced avocado or hummus, to add creaminess and depth of flavor. Whatever vegetarian ingredients you choose, make sure they are flavorful and textured to create a great Reuben sandwich.
How do I store leftover Reuben sandwiches?
If you have leftover Reuben sandwiches, it is best to store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Wrap the sandwiches 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, but be aware that the texture and flavor may suffer slightly.
When reheating leftover Reuben sandwiches, it is best to grill or toast them until crispy and golden brown to restore their texture and flavor. You can also consider microwaving the sandwiches for a few seconds to melt the cheese and warm the bread, but be careful not to overheat the sandwich.