Introduction: Why the Reuben Sandwich is a Classic Favorite
The Reuben sandwich, a delicious combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, is a classic comfort food beloved by many. Whether you’re making it for a casual lunch or serving it at a party, a well-made Reuben is always a crowd-pleaser. In this article, we’ll explore the history, ingredients, variations, and tips for making the perfect Reuben sandwich.
Part 1: The Ultimate Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Making a perfect Reuben sandwich is an art. This classic American sandwich combines the rich flavors of corned beef, Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut, all piled between two slices of rye bread. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this detailed step-by-step guide will make sure you can master this delicious recipe at home. Let’s dive right in and explore what you need and how to prepare it, from start to finish.
Ingredients for the Reuben Sandwich
To make this mouthwatering Reuben sandwich, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 slices of rye bread
- 3-4 ounces of corned beef, thinly sliced
- 2 slices of Swiss cheese
- 1/4 cup of sauerkraut, drained
- 2 tablespoons of Russian dressing
- Butter, for grilling the bread
- Optional: Pickles, chips, or a side salad for serving
Having all these ingredients ready and fresh will make your sandwich much more enjoyable. Keep in mind that the quality of the corned beef and Swiss cheese is essential for the best outcome. You can also experiment with Russian dressing if you want to tweak the flavor, but the traditional choice is always the best!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by prepping all your ingredients. Drain the sauerkraut well to prevent sogginess, and slice the corned beef and Swiss cheese. This will help everything cook evenly and speed up the assembly process. You can also spread the Russian dressing on a small dish to make it easier to apply later.
2. Toast the Bread
Next, take the slices of rye bread and spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice. You want to make sure that the bread has a nice, crispy texture after grilling. Once buttered, set the bread aside.
3. Assemble the Sandwich
Start assembling your sandwich on a clean surface. Spread the Russian dressing evenly on one side of each slice of bread. Then, layer the corned beef on top of one slice, followed by the Swiss cheese. Add a generous amount of sauerkraut and top it off with the second slice of bread, dressing side down.
4. Grill the Sandwich
Heat a skillet or a griddle over medium heat. Once hot, place the assembled sandwich on the skillet, buttered side down. Press gently with a spatula. Grill each side for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the bread turns golden brown and the Swiss cheese has melted inside.
Be sure to flip the sandwich carefully, as you want to avoid losing the crispy texture of the bread. Once it’s grilled to perfection, remove it from the skillet and let it cool slightly before cutting.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Cut the sandwich diagonally or in halves. For an authentic touch, serve it with a side of pickles and chips. The balance of crispy bread, melted cheese, salty corned beef, and tangy sauerkraut will be a hit at your dining table!
Part 2: Variations of the Classic Reuben Sandwich
Now that you’ve learned how to make the classic Reuben sandwich, let’s explore some exciting variations that you can try. Whether you’re in the mood for a healthier option, or just want to mix things up, there’s a Reuben recipe for everyone. Let’s take a look at how you can give this iconic sandwich a twist.
1. The Turkey Reuben: A Healthier Alternative
For those who prefer a lighter option, the turkey Reuben is a fantastic choice. Simply swap out the corned beef for sliced turkey breast. The rest of the ingredients stay the same, offering the same savory, creamy goodness, but with less fat. The turkey adds a leaner protein while still providing that classic Reuben flavor.
How to Make the Turkey Reuben:
- Use turkey breast in place of corned beef. You can even go with smoked turkey if you prefer a deeper flavor.
- Follow the same instructions as the classic recipe for assembling and grilling.
This variation has a slightly milder taste but still hits all the right notes. Pair it with some baked chips and a pickle on the side for a satisfying meal.
2. The Veggie Reuben: Perfect for Plant-Based Eaters
If you follow a vegetarian or plant-based diet, the Veggie Reuben is a great way to enjoy this sandwich without the meat. Instead of corned beef, you can use ingredients like grilled portobello mushrooms, tempeh, or tofu for a hearty, savory filling.
How to Make the Veggie Reuben:
- Grill a large portobello mushroom cap or sauté tempeh or tofu slices with some soy sauce or miso for extra umami.
- Layer the mushroom or tempeh on the bread along with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing.
The Veggie Reuben gives you that meaty texture and flavor without the need for animal products, making it a perfect plant-based alternative.
3. The Pastrami Reuben: A Bold Twist
For a bold and slightly spicier version of the traditional Reuben, try using pastrami instead of corned beef. Pastrami adds a smoky, peppery flavor to the sandwich, making it a savory treat. This version is often known as a “Pastrami on Rye,” but when you add the Swiss cheese and sauerkraut, it transforms into a Reuben with extra kick.
How to Make the Pastrami Reuben:
- Swap the corned beef with sliced pastrami.
- Assemble the sandwich just like the classic Reuben, grilling it until crispy.
The Pastrami Reuben is perfect for those who love a bit of extra spice in their sandwiches.
4. The Grilled Chicken Reuben: A Leaner Option
For a lighter version without compromising flavor, you can substitute corned beef with grilled chicken breast. The mildness of chicken makes it the perfect vehicle for the bold sauerkraut and Russian dressing, giving you a unique take on this traditional favorite.
How to Make the Grilled Chicken Reuben:
- Grill a boneless chicken breast until fully cooked and slice it thinly.
- Assemble your sandwich using the same ingredients from the classic recipe, but with grilled chicken instead of corned beef.
The Grilled Chicken Reuben provides a healthy alternative without sacrificing the delicious crunch and tang of the original.
5. The Reuben with Avocado: A Creamy Twist
If you’re a fan of avocado, adding it to your Reuben can create a rich, creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the sharpness of the sauerkraut and the meltiness of the Swiss cheese. The healthy fats from the avocado make the sandwich even more filling.
How to Make the Reuben with Avocado:
- After assembling the Reuben, add a few slices of fresh avocado to the middle of the sandwich.
- Follow the same grilling instructions for a toasted, creamy bite every time.
The Reuben with avocado brings an extra layer of richness to the sandwich and is perfect for anyone looking for something a little different.
How to Customize Your Reuben Sandwich
One of the best parts of the Reuben sandwich recipe is how customizable it is. Whether you’re looking to tweak the bread, fillings, or condiments, there are endless ways to make this sandwich your own. Here are a few ideas to inspire your creativity:
Bread Options
While rye bread is the classic choice, you can switch it up by using other types of bread like sourdough, whole wheat, or even gluten-free bread if you prefer. Each type of bread will provide its own unique texture and flavor to the sandwich.
Cheese Choices
If you’re not a fan of Swiss cheese, you can swap it for other varieties like cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack. Each cheese offers a different flavor profile, from mild and creamy to sharp and tangy.
Sauce Variations
Instead of traditional Russian dressing, try Thousand Island dressing or even a spicy mustard for a different kick. You can also mix a bit of hot sauce into the dressing for extra heat if that’s what you like.