The Reuben sandwich is a beloved classic that has been satisfying the cravings of deli lovers for decades. This mouthwatering combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, all piled high on rye bread and grilled to perfection, is a true delight. But what do you need to make a Reuben sandwich that will impress even the most discerning palates? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the essential ingredients and preparation methods required to create the ultimate Reuben sandwich.
Understanding the Origins of the Reuben Sandwich
Before we dive into the ingredients and preparation methods, it’s worth taking a brief look at the origins of the Reuben sandwich. The Reuben is often attributed to Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who allegedly created the sandwich in the early 20th century. However, some sources suggest that the Reuben may have actually been invented by Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-born grocer who lived in Omaha, Nebraska.
Regardless of its true origins, the Reuben sandwich has become a staple of American deli cuisine, with its unique combination of flavors and textures winning over the hearts of foodies across the country.
The Essential Ingredients of a Reuben Sandwich
So, what do you need to make a Reuben sandwich? Here are the essential ingredients:
Corned Beef
Corned beef is the star of the show when it comes to the Reuben sandwich. You’ll want to look for high-quality corned beef that’s been cured in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices. You can use either thinly sliced or thick-cut corned beef, depending on your personal preference.
Types of Corned Beef
There are several types of corned beef to choose from, including:
- Flat-cut corned beef: This is the most common type of corned beef and is cut from the flat section of the brisket.
- Point-cut corned beef: This type of corned beef is cut from the point section of the brisket and is often more tender and flavorful than flat-cut corned beef.
- House-cured corned beef: This type of corned beef is cured in-house by the deli or restaurant, using a secret blend of spices and seasonings.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is a tangy, fermented cabbage that adds a burst of flavor to the Reuben sandwich. You can use either store-bought or homemade sauerkraut, depending on your preference.
Types of Sauerkraut
There are several types of sauerkraut to choose from, including:
- Finely shredded sauerkraut: This type of sauerkraut is finely shredded and is great for adding a subtle tang to the Reuben sandwich.
- Coarsely chopped sauerkraut: This type of sauerkraut is coarsely chopped and adds a nice texture to the Reuben sandwich.
Swiss Cheese
Swiss cheese is a mild, nutty cheese that adds a rich, creamy flavor to the Reuben sandwich. You can use either sliced or shredded Swiss cheese, depending on your preference.
Types of Swiss Cheese
There are several types of Swiss cheese to choose from, including:
- Emmental Swiss cheese: This type of Swiss cheese is made from cow’s milk and has a mild, nutty flavor.
- Gruyère Swiss cheese: This type of Swiss cheese is made from cow’s milk and has a rich, creamy flavor.
Thousand Island Dressing
Thousand Island dressing is a creamy, tangy condiment that adds a rich, velvety texture to the Reuben sandwich. You can use either store-bought or homemade Thousand Island dressing, depending on your preference.
Types of Thousand Island Dressing
There are several types of Thousand Island dressing to choose from, including:
- Classic Thousand Island dressing: This type of Thousand Island dressing is made with mayonnaise, ketchup, and relish.
- Spicy Thousand Island dressing: This type of Thousand Island dressing is made with mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, and hot sauce.
Rye Bread
Rye bread is the foundation of the Reuben sandwich, providing a sturdy base for the corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing. You can use either dark or light rye bread, depending on your preference.
Types of Rye Bread
There are several types of rye bread to choose from, including:
- Dark rye bread: This type of rye bread is made with dark rye flour and has a dense, earthy flavor.
- Light rye bread: This type of rye bread is made with light rye flour and has a lighter, airier texture.
Preparing the Reuben Sandwich
Now that we’ve covered the essential ingredients, let’s take a look at how to prepare the Reuben sandwich.
Assembling the Sandwich
To assemble the Reuben sandwich, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Lay two slices of rye bread on a flat surface.
- Spread a layer of Thousand Island dressing on each slice of bread.
- Add a layer of corned beef on top of the Thousand Island dressing.
- Add a layer of sauerkraut on top of the corned beef.
- Add a layer of Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut.
- Top with the second slice of rye bread.
Grilling the Sandwich
To grill the Reuben sandwich, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Place the Reuben 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.
- Remove the sandwich from the grill and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your Reuben sandwich to the next level:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The key to a great Reuben sandwich is using high-quality ingredients, including corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing.
- Add some spice: If you like a little heat in your Reuben sandwich, try adding some sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix.
- Use different types of cheese: While Swiss cheese is traditional in a Reuben sandwich, you can also try using other types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone.
- Add some crunch: If you like a little crunch in your Reuben sandwich, try adding some chopped onions or pickles to the mix.
Conclusion
The Reuben sandwich is a beloved classic that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. By using high-quality ingredients and following a few simple preparation steps, you can create a Reuben sandwich that is truly unforgettable. Whether you’re a deli lover or just looking for a new twist on a classic sandwich, the Reuben is sure to hit the spot.
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 not well-documented, but it is often attributed to Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who allegedly created the dish in the early 20th century.
Despite its unclear origins, the Reuben sandwich has become a beloved classic in American cuisine, with many variations and interpretations popping up in restaurants and delis across the country. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an innovator, the Reuben sandwich is a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
What type of corned beef is best for a Reuben sandwich?
When it comes to choosing the right corned beef for a Reuben sandwich, look for a high-quality, thinly sliced cut that is tender and flavorful. You can use either flat-cut or point-cut corned beef, but flat-cut is generally preferred for its leaner texture and more even slices.
Avoid using pre-cooked or canned corned beef, as it can be dry and lacking in flavor. Instead, opt for a fresh, raw corned beef that you can cook to your liking. You can also consider using house-cured or artisanal corned beef for a more complex and nuanced flavor profile.
What is the best type of sauerkraut to use in a Reuben sandwich?
When it comes to choosing the right sauerkraut for a Reuben sandwich, look for a high-quality, tangy variety that is made with fresh cabbage and a touch of caraway seed. You can use either traditional or artisanal sauerkraut, but avoid using canned or jarred varieties that can be too salty or vinegary.
For an added layer of flavor, consider using a sauerkraut that is infused with caraway seeds, juniper berries, or other spices. You can also try using a homemade sauerkraut recipe for a more customized flavor profile.
What type of cheese is best for a Reuben sandwich?
When it comes to choosing the right cheese for a Reuben sandwich, look for a high-quality, nutty variety that melts well and adds depth to the dish. Swiss cheese is the traditional choice for Reuben sandwiches, but you can also consider using other types of cheese such as Gruyère, Emmental, or even cheddar.
Avoid using low-quality or processed cheeses that can be too mild or bland. Instead, opt for a rich and creamy cheese that will complement the other flavors in the sandwich.
What is the best type of bread to use for a Reuben sandwich?
When it comes to choosing the right bread for a Reuben sandwich, look for a high-quality, dense variety that can hold up to the filling and the grilling process. Rye bread is the traditional choice for Reuben sandwiches, but you can also consider using other types of bread such as pumpernickel, sourdough, or even ciabatta.
Avoid using too-soft or too-fluffy bread that can fall apart when grilled. Instead, opt for a hearty and chewy bread that will provide a satisfying texture to the sandwich.
How do I assemble and grill the perfect Reuben sandwich?
To assemble the perfect Reuben sandwich, start by spreading a layer of Thousand Island dressing on one slice of bread, followed by a layer of corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese. Top with the second slice of bread and grill the sandwich in a pan or griddle over medium heat until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
To achieve the perfect grill marks, use a pan or griddle with a non-stick surface and cook the sandwich for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Can I customize my Reuben sandwich with other ingredients?
While the traditional Reuben sandwich recipe is a classic, you can definitely customize it with other ingredients to suit your taste. Some popular variations include adding sliced turkey or roast beef, using different types of cheese or sauerkraut, or even adding some caramelized onions or bell peppers.
Feel free to get creative and experiment with different ingredients to create your own unique Reuben sandwich recipe. Just be sure to balance the flavors and textures so that the sandwich doesn’t become too overwhelming or confusing.