The Reuben sandwich is a classic American dish that has been a staple in many restaurants and households for decades. This mouth-watering sandwich is made with a perfect combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, all grilled to perfection on rye bread. In this article, we will explore the essential ingredients and steps needed to make a delicious Reuben sandwich.
History of the Reuben Sandwich
Before we dive into the ingredients and preparation, let’s take a brief look at the history of the Reuben sandwich. The origins of this sandwich are disputed, but it is often attributed to Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who allegedly created the dish in the 1920s. Another theory suggests that the sandwich was invented by Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-American grocer who lived in Omaha, Nebraska. Regardless of its true origins, the Reuben sandwich has become a beloved classic in American cuisine.
Essential Ingredients for a Reuben Sandwich
To make a traditional Reuben sandwich, you will need the following essential ingredients:
Corned Beef
Corned beef is the star of the Reuben sandwich. You can use either thinly sliced deli corned beef or cook your own corned beef brisket. If you choose to cook your own, make sure to use a recipe that includes pickling spices and a long cooking time to achieve tender and flavorful results.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is a tangy and crunchy addition to the Reuben sandwich. You can use either store-bought sauerkraut or make your own by fermenting shredded cabbage in a brine solution. If you choose to use store-bought sauerkraut, make sure to rinse it with water to remove excess salt.
Swiss Cheese
Swiss cheese is a mild and creamy cheese that melts perfectly in the Reuben sandwich. You can use either sliced or shredded Swiss cheese, depending on your preference.
Thousand Island Dressing
Thousand Island dressing is a creamy and tangy condiment that adds a rich flavor to the Reuben sandwich. You can use either store-bought or homemade Thousand Island dressing.
Rye Bread
Rye bread is the foundation of the Reuben sandwich. You can use either dark or light rye bread, depending on your preference. Make sure to choose a bread that is dense and chewy, as it will hold up well to the filling.
Optional Ingredients for a Reuben Sandwich
While the essential ingredients listed above are necessary for a traditional Reuben sandwich, there are some optional ingredients that you can add to give your sandwich a unique twist. Some popular optional ingredients include:
Caramelized Onions
Caramelized onions add a sweet and savory flavor to the Reuben sandwich. Simply cook sliced onions in a pan with butter and sugar until they are dark brown and caramelized.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms can add a crunchy texture and fresh flavor to the Reuben sandwich. Simply brush the vegetables with oil and grill them until they are tender.
Jalapeños
Jalapeños can add a spicy kick to the Reuben sandwich. Simply slice the jalapeños thinly and add them to the sandwich.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making a Reuben Sandwich
Now that we have covered the essential and optional ingredients, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for making a Reuben sandwich.
Step 1: Prepare the Corned Beef
If you are using deli corned beef, simply slice it thinly and set it aside. If you are cooking your own corned beef, follow a recipe that includes pickling spices and a long cooking time.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauerkraut
If you are using store-bought sauerkraut, rinse it with water to remove excess salt. If you are making your own sauerkraut, ferment the shredded cabbage in a brine solution until it is tangy and crunchy.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
To assemble the sandwich, 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 dressing, followed by a layer of sauerkraut and a slice of Swiss cheese.
Step 4: Grill the Sandwich
To grill the sandwich, place it in a pan or griddle over medium heat. Cook the sandwich for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Tips and Variations for Making a Reuben Sandwich
Here are some tips and variations for making a Reuben sandwich:
Use High-Quality Ingredients
The quality of the ingredients is essential for making a delicious Reuben sandwich. Use high-quality corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese to ensure that your sandwich is flavorful and satisfying.
Experiment with Different Types of Cheese
While Swiss cheese is traditional in a Reuben sandwich, you can experiment with different types of cheese to give your sandwich a unique flavor. Some popular alternatives include cheddar, provolone, and gouda.
Add Some Spice
If you like spicy food, you can add some spice to your Reuben sandwich by including jalapeños or hot sauce.
Make it a Vegetarian Reuben
If you are a vegetarian, you can make a vegetarian Reuben sandwich by substituting the corned beef with grilled portobello mushrooms or eggplant.
Conclusion
The Reuben sandwich is a classic American dish that is easy to make and delicious to eat. With its perfect combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you are a traditionalist or an experimenter, there are many ways to make a Reuben sandwich that will satisfy your taste buds.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Corned Beef | 8 oz |
| Sauerkraut | 1 cup |
| Swiss Cheese | 2 slices |
| Thousand Island Dressing | 2 tbsp |
| Rye Bread | 2 slices |
By following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you can create a delicious Reuben sandwich that will impress your family and friends. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the ultimate corned beef delight!
What is a Reuben sandwich?
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 combination of flavors and textures in a Reuben sandwich makes it a popular choice for many people.
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 sandwich in the early 20th century. Regardless of its origins, the Reuben sandwich has become a beloved dish in many parts of the world.
What type of corned beef is best for a Reuben sandwich?
For a Reuben sandwich, it’s best to use thinly sliced corned beef that is tender and flavorful. Look for corned beef that is labeled as “flat cut” or “lean cut,” as this type of corned beef is typically less fatty and more tender than other types.
You can also use homemade corned beef if you prefer. To make homemade corned beef, you’ll need to cure a beef brisket in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices, then cook it in liquid until it’s tender. This process can take several days, but the end result is well worth the effort.
Can I use different types of cheese in a Reuben sandwich?
While Swiss cheese is the traditional choice for a Reuben sandwich, you can also use other types of cheese if you prefer. Some popular alternatives to Swiss cheese include cheddar, provolone, and Gruyère. Each of these cheeses has a unique flavor and texture that can add depth and complexity to a Reuben sandwich.
Keep in mind that using a different type of cheese may alter the flavor profile of your Reuben sandwich, so it’s a good idea to experiment with different cheeses to find the combination that you enjoy the most. You can also use a combination of cheeses for an even more complex flavor profile.
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 cheese. Top with the second slice of rye bread and grill the sandwich in a pan or skillet until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
You can also add other ingredients to your Reuben sandwich, such as sliced onions or pickles, to add extra flavor and texture. Just be sure not to overload the sandwich, as this can make it difficult to handle and eat.
Can I make a Reuben sandwich in a panini press?
Yes, you can make a Reuben sandwich in a panini press. In fact, a panini press is a great way to make a Reuben sandwich, as it allows you to apply even pressure to the sandwich and grill it evenly. Simply assemble the sandwich as you normally would, then place it in the panini press and cook until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
Using a panini press can also help to melt the cheese more evenly and crisp up the bread, which can add texture and flavor to the sandwich. Just be sure to adjust the heat and pressure settings on your panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
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. Simply wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat the sandwiches, simply grill them in a pan or skillet until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
You can also freeze leftover Reuben sandwiches for up to 2 months. Simply wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat the sandwiches, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then grill them in a pan or skillet until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
Can I make Reuben sandwiches ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Reuben sandwiches ahead of time. In fact, making the sandwiches ahead of time can be a great way to save time and effort when you’re entertaining a crowd. Simply assemble the sandwiches as you normally would, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours.
You can also grill the sandwiches ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Simply reheat the sandwiches in a pan or skillet until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. This can be a great way to make a large batch of Reuben sandwiches for a party or special event.