Reuben Sandwich Recipe: The Reuben sandwich is the epitome of comfort food—a warm, gooey, and flavor-packed delight. This classic sandwich combines tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and a creamy dressing, all nestled between slices of hearty rye bread. Its unique balance of savory and tangy makes it a perennial favorite for lunch or dinner. But where did this legendary sandwich originate?
The Reuben is often attributed to two origin stories: some say it was created in Omaha, Nebraska, by a grocer named Reuben Kulakofsky during a poker game. Others claim it hails from a New York deli. Regardless of its roots, the Reuben has stood the test of time, becoming a staple on menus worldwide.
Ready to learn how to make your own Reuben masterpiece? Let’s get started!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the ultimate Reuben sandwich, gather these core ingredients:
- Rye bread: Classic rye or marble rye for an authentic flavor.
- Corned beef: Freshly sliced, tender corned beef is key.
- Sauerkraut: Provides tanginess and texture.
- Swiss cheese: Melty and slightly nutty, it’s the perfect complement.
- Russian or Thousand Island dressing: Adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness.
- Butter: For grilling the bread to golden perfection.
Optional Additions:
- Pickles or coleslaw on the side.
- Mustard for a sharper kick.
Substitutions:
- Gluten-free bread or dairy-free cheese for dietary needs.
Preparing the Ingredients
Choosing the Perfect Bread
The bread is the foundation of your Reuben sandwich, and rye is the traditional choice. Its hearty texture and earthy flavor pair beautifully with the bold fillings. For a visual twist, opt for marble rye. Be sure to choose fresh bread with a firm structure to hold the sandwich together during grilling.
Sourcing the Corned Beef
Freshly sliced corned beef from your local deli is the easiest option, but if you want to go the extra mile, prepare your own corned beef brisket. Look for meat that is tender and moist, as it’s the star of the sandwich. Thinly slice the beef for the best results.
Sauerkraut Preparation
Sauerkraut brings a tangy brightness to the sandwich, but it can sometimes be overly wet. Drain it thoroughly and lightly season it with caraway seeds or pepper to enhance the flavor. For a milder twist, try pickled cabbage or coleslaw.
Swiss Cheese Selection
Swiss cheese is the traditional choice, offering a creamy, slightly nutty flavor that complements the tangy sauerkraut and savory beef. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with Gruyère or a mild Havarti.
Crafting Russian or Thousand Island Dressing
A good dressing ties the sandwich together. Whip up a homemade Russian dressing with mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, and paprika for a fresh and flavorful touch. Short on time? Opt for store-bought Thousand Island dressing as an easy alternative.
Assembling the Reuben Sandwich
Layering the Ingredients
Start by laying out your rye bread slices. Spread a generous layer of dressing on each slice. On one side, layer the corned beef evenly, followed by the sauerkraut and Swiss cheese. Top with the second slice of bread, dressing side down.
Balancing Flavors and Textures
When assembling, aim for balance. Too much sauerkraut can overpower the sandwich, while insufficient cheese won’t give you that oozy, melty goodness. Each bite should deliver a harmonious mix of flavors and textures.
Cooking the Sandwich
Using a Skillet or Pan
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Butter the outside of each bread slice generously. Place the sandwich in the skillet and press lightly with a spatula to ensure even toasting. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side or until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
Tips for a Crispy Golden Crust
Use unsalted butter for a rich, golden crust. Avoid using too much heat, as it can burn the bread before the cheese melts.
Achieving the Perfect Melt
To melt the cheese thoroughly, cover the skillet with a lid for the last minute of cooking. This traps the heat and ensures gooey cheese without overcooking the bread.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Reuben sandwich with classic sides like crispy fries, dill pickles, or a fresh green salad. For beverages, a cold beer or a crisp soda works wonders, but a sparkling water with lime can cut through the richness if you prefer something lighter.
Variations of the Classic Reuben
Vegetarian and Vegan Reubens
If you love the idea of a Reuben but follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, don’t worry—you can still enjoy this classic! Replace the corned beef with a plant-based protein like seasoned tempeh, jackfruit, or even roasted portobello mushrooms. Opt for vegan Swiss cheese and a dairy-free dressing, and use vegan butter for grilling. As for the sauerkraut, it’s already a vegan-friendly ingredient, so no substitutions are needed there.
Turkey Reuben (Rachel Sandwich)
For a lighter take, swap out the corned beef for sliced turkey breast. This variation, known as the Rachel sandwich, maintains the same layering and preparation style as the classic Reuben but with a milder, leaner flavor. Some versions of the Rachel also substitute coleslaw for sauerkraut, adding a creamy crunch to the mix.
Creative Twists on the Reuben
Feeling adventurous? Try regional or fusion versions of the Reuben:
- Reuben Quesadilla: Replace the rye bread with tortillas and grill as you would a quesadilla.
- Reuben Egg Rolls: Roll up the ingredients in egg roll wrappers, fry them, and serve with dressing as a dipping sauce.
- Spicy Reuben: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for extra kick.
- Breakfast Reuben: Use a bagel instead of bread and top it with a fried egg.
Storing and Reheating
Proper Storage Techniques
If you have leftover sandwiches or ingredients, store them properly to preserve their freshness:
- Wrap assembled but uncooked sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Store leftover corned beef and sauerkraut in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
Reheating a Reuben
To reheat a fully cooked Reuben, avoid the microwave, which can make the bread soggy. Instead, use these methods:
- Skillet Method: Reheat the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap the sandwich in aluminum foil, and heat for 10-12 minutes.
Tips for Perfecting Your Reuben
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overloading Ingredients: While it’s tempting to pile on the corned beef and cheese, overloading can make the sandwich difficult to grill evenly.
- Skipping the Butter: Butter is essential for achieving that golden, crispy crust.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Since the Reuben relies on a few core ingredients, their quality makes a big difference.
Expert Tricks for the Ultimate Reuben
- Preheat Your Skillet: Starting with a hot skillet ensures even toasting.
- Press the Sandwich Gently: Use a spatula to apply light pressure while cooking to help meld the ingredients together.
- Serve Immediately: The Reuben is best enjoyed hot off the skillet, while the cheese is still gooey and the bread is crisp.
FAQs about Reuben Sandwich Recipe
What are the essential ingredients for a Reuben sandwich?
A classic Reuben sandwich requires rye bread, corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing. Each component is crucial to achieve the traditional savory and tangy flavor profile that makes this sandwich a favorite.
How do you assemble a Reuben sandwich?
Start by spreading Russian or Thousand Island dressing on two slices of rye bread. On one slice, layer a generous amount of corned beef, a scoop of drained sauerkraut, and slices of Swiss cheese. Top it with the second slice of bread, dressing side down. This assembly ensures every bite is moist and flavorful.
What’s the best way to cook a Reuben sandwich?
Butter the outside of each slice of rye bread for a golden, crispy finish. Cook the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat, pressing down slightly with a spatula. Flip it once the first side is golden brown and toasted, about 3-4 minutes, then cook the other side until the cheese is melted and the sandwich is heated through.
Can I make a Reuben sandwich with a different type of meat?
While corned beef is traditional, some variations use pastrami or turkey. These substitutions can cater to personal taste preferences or dietary restrictions while still delivering a delicious sandwich.
Are there any tips for making a Reuben sandwich healthier?
To make a healthier Reuben, consider using low-sodium corned beef, reduced-fat Swiss cheese, and light dressing. Additionally, opt for a whole grain rye bread to increase the fiber content.
Conclusion
The Reuben sandwich is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary icon that has stood the test of time. With its perfect combination of salty, tangy, and creamy flavors, it’s no wonder this sandwich remains a beloved favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the many variations, the Reuben promises to deliver comfort and satisfaction with every bite. So gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and treat yourself to a homemade Reuben—you deserve it!
