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 across the United States. But who makes a good Reuben sandwich? Is it the traditional Jewish delis of New York City, the modern gastropubs of Los Angeles, or perhaps the humble diners of the Midwest? In this article, we’ll explore the history of the Reuben, its key components, and the restaurants and chefs that make it shine.
A Brief History of the Reuben
The origins of the Reuben sandwich are shrouded in mystery, but the most widely accepted story dates back to the 1920s in Omaha, Nebraska. According to legend, Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur, created the sandwich as a specialty item for his restaurant, Reuben’s Delicatessen. The original Reuben consisted of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, grilled between slices of rye bread and served with a side of Thousand Island dressing.
Over time, the Reuben gained popularity across the United States, with various restaurants and chefs putting their own spin on the classic recipe. Today, the Reuben is a staple of Jewish delis, diners, and gastropubs, with countless variations and interpretations.
The Key Components of a Good Reuben
So, what makes a good Reuben sandwich? The answer lies in the quality of its key components:
- Corned beef: Thinly sliced, tender, and flavorful corned beef is the foundation of a good Reuben. Look for beef that’s been cured in-house or sourced from a reputable supplier.
- Sauerkraut: Finely shredded, tangy sauerkraut adds a burst of flavor and texture to the Reuben. Opt for sauerkraut that’s been fermented in-house or sourced from a local supplier.
- Swiss cheese: Melted Swiss cheese binds the flavors of the Reuben together, adding creaminess and depth. Choose a high-quality Swiss cheese that’s been aged to perfection.
- Thousand Island dressing: A tangy, creamy Thousand Island dressing adds a richness and complexity to the Reuben. Look for a dressing that’s made in-house or sourced from a reputable supplier.
- Rye bread: A dense, chewy rye bread provides the perfect base for the Reuben. Opt for a bread that’s been baked in-house or sourced from a local bakery.
The Art of Assembling a Reuben
Assembling a Reuben sandwich is an art form that requires precision and attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide to building the perfect Reuben:
- Begin by grilling slices of rye bread until they’re crispy and golden brown.
- Add a layer of corned beef, sliced thinly and piled high.
- Top the corned beef with a generous helping of sauerkraut, finely shredded and tangy.
- Add a slice of Swiss cheese, melted to perfection.
- Spread a layer of Thousand Island dressing on top of the cheese, adding a tangy, creamy element to the Reuben.
- Top with the remaining slice of rye bread, grilled to perfection.
The Best Reuben Sandwiches in the Country
From coast to coast, there are countless restaurants and chefs that make a mean Reuben sandwich. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Katz’s Delicatessen (New York City, NY): This classic Jewish deli has been serving up some of the city’s best Reubens since 1888. Their version features thinly sliced corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese, all piled high on rye bread.
- The Apple Pan (Los Angeles, CA): This beloved diner has been a Los Angeles institution since 1947, serving up classic American comfort food with a twist. Their Reuben features house-cured corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, all grilled to perfection on rye bread.
- Zingerman’s Deli (Ann Arbor, MI): This Michigan institution has been serving up some of the country’s best sandwiches since 1982. Their Reuben features house-cured corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese, all piled high on rye bread.
Modern Twists on the Classic Reuben
While traditional Reubens are delicious, many modern chefs and restaurants are putting their own spin on the classic recipe. Here are a few of our favorite modern twists:
- The Reuben Egg Roll: This creative twist on the classic Reuben features corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese wrapped in a crispy egg roll wrapper and served with a side of Thousand Island dressing.
- The Reuben Grilled Cheese: This decadent twist on the classic Reuben features corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese grilled between slices of sourdough bread and served with a side of Thousand Island dressing.
- The Vegan Reuben: This plant-based twist on the classic Reuben features marinated and grilled tofu, sauerkraut, and vegan Swiss cheese, all piled high on rye bread.
The Future of the Reuben
As the culinary landscape continues to evolve, it’s likely that the Reuben sandwich will continue to adapt and change. Whether it’s through the use of new ingredients, creative cooking techniques, or innovative presentation, the Reuben is sure to remain a beloved classic for years to come.
In conclusion, the Reuben sandwich is a classic American dish that’s steeped in history and tradition. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Jewish delis, modern gastropubs, or humble diners, there’s a Reuben out there for everyone. So next time you’re in the mood for a delicious, satisfying sandwich, consider giving the Reuben a try. Your taste buds will thank you.
| Restaurant | Location | Reuben Description |
|---|---|---|
| Katz’s Delicatessen | New York City, NY | Thinly sliced corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese, all piled high on rye bread. |
| The Apple Pan | Los Angeles, CA | House-cured corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, all grilled to perfection on rye bread. |
| Zingerman’s Deli | Ann Arbor, MI | House-cured corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese, all piled high on rye bread. |
- Corned beef: Thinly sliced, tender, and flavorful corned beef is the foundation of a good Reuben.
- Sauerkraut: Finely shredded, tangy sauerkraut adds a burst of flavor and texture to the Reuben.
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 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 dish in many parts of the world.
What are the essential ingredients of a Reuben sandwich?
The essential ingredients of a Reuben sandwich are corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, all of which are typically grilled between slices of rye bread. The corned beef provides a salty, meaty flavor, while the sauerkraut adds a tangy, slightly sour taste.
The Swiss cheese melts and binds the ingredients together, while the Thousand Island dressing adds a creamy, slightly sweet element to the sandwich. Rye bread is the traditional bread used for Reuben sandwiches, as its distinctive flavor and texture complement the other ingredients well.
Can I use different types of cheese in a Reuben sandwich?
While Swiss cheese is the traditional choice for Reuben sandwiches, other types of cheese can be used as substitutes. Some popular alternatives include cheddar, provolone, and Gruyère, all of which have a rich, creamy flavor that works well with the other ingredients.
However, it’s worth noting that using a different type of cheese may alter the flavor and texture of the sandwich slightly, so it’s up to personal preference. If you’re looking for a more authentic Reuben experience, Swiss cheese is still the best choice.
How do I assemble a Reuben sandwich?
Assembling a Reuben sandwich is relatively straightforward. Start by buttering two slices of rye bread, then layer the corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing on one slice. Place the second slice of bread on top, and grill the sandwich in a pan or skillet until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
It’s also possible to grill the sandwich in a panini press or under the broiler, depending on your preference. Regardless of the method, the key is to cook the sandwich until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
Can I make a vegetarian version of a Reuben sandwich?
Yes, it is possible to make a vegetarian version of a Reuben sandwich by substituting the corned beef with a plant-based alternative. Some popular options include tempeh, seitan, and marinated portobello mushrooms, all of which can be used to mimic the texture and flavor of corned beef.
To make a vegetarian Reuben, simply layer the plant-based protein with sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing on rye bread, and grill the sandwich as usual. You can also add other vegetarian ingredients, such as avocado or grilled vegetables, to enhance the flavor and texture.
How do I store leftover Reuben sandwiches?
Leftover Reuben sandwiches can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day or two, depending on the freshness of the ingredients. To store a Reuben sandwich, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
It’s also possible to freeze Reuben sandwiches for longer-term storage. Simply wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen Reuben sandwiches can be stored for up to three months and can be reheated in a pan or oven when needed.
Can I make Reuben sandwiches in advance?
Yes, it is possible to make Reuben sandwiches in advance, although the results may vary depending on the method. One option is to assemble the sandwiches and refrigerate them for up to a day before grilling. This allows the flavors to meld together and the bread to absorb the juices from the sauerkraut and Thousand Island dressing.
Another option is to grill the sandwiches in advance and reheat them when needed. This can be done by wrapping the sandwiches tightly in foil and reheating them in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes. However, it’s worth noting that reheating a Reuben sandwich may affect its texture and flavor slightly.