A Reuben sandwich is a classic deli-style sandwich that has been enjoyed by many for decades. It is made with a variety of delicious ingredients, including corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing. Created in the early 20th century in New York City, the Reuben sandwich has become a staple on menus around the world.
But what exactly are the ingredients that make a Reuben sandwich so delectable? In this article, we will explore the origins of the Reuben sandwich and its traditional ingredients, as well as some variations that you can try at home. Whether you are a fan of classic deli-style sandwiches or just looking to try something new, join us as we uncover the secrets of the Reuben sandwich.
The Origin of the Reuben Sandwich
The Reuben sandwich is a classic American sandwich made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, served on rye bread. Its origin is a topic of debate, with several different stories claiming to be the true origin of the sandwich. One story suggests that the sandwich was invented in the early 1900s by a deli owner named Arnold Reuben, while another claims that it was created by a lunch counter owner in Omaha, Nebraska named Reuben Kulakofsky.
Despite the confusion surrounding its origins, the Reuben sandwich has become a beloved classic in the United States, with many variations and adaptations over the years. It has even been featured on menus at fast-food chains and high-end restaurants alike. Regardless of the story behind its creation, the Reuben sandwich has proven to be a timeless favorite among sandwich enthusiasts everywhere.
The Classic Reuben Sandwich: The Components
The classic Reuben sandwich is an iconic deli sandwich that has been around since the early 1900s. It comprises of a delicious combination of flavors and textures, which include corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing, all stacked between two slices of rye bread.
Corned beef is the most crucial ingredient in a Reuben sandwich, and it’s traditionally made from a cut of beef brisket that has been brined in a spiced saltwater solution. The sauerkraut adds a tangy flavor and a crunch to the sandwich, while the melted Swiss cheese provides a creamy, slightly nutty taste. Russian dressing, which is a combination of mayonnaise, ketchup, and horseradish, is used to add a tangy, zesty flavor to the sandwich. Finally, the whole sandwich is grilled or toasted to perfection, creating a crispy, gooey bite that is sure to satisfy any sandwich cravings.
The Meat: Choosing the Right Pastrami or Corned Beef
When it comes to a Reuben sandwich, the meat is one of the most important ingredients. It’s what gives it that famous savory, salty flavor that people love. You have two options when it comes to the meat – pastrami or corned beef.
Pastrami is typically made from beef brisket that is seasoned with a mixture of spices, including garlic, coriander, and black pepper. It’s then smoked and steamed until it’s tender and juicy. Corned beef, on the other hand, is made from a similar cut of beef, but it’s been brined in a mixture of water, salt, and spices for several days before being cooked. Both meats work great in a Reuben sandwich, but it really comes down to personal preference. Some people prefer the smokiness and spiciness of pastrami, while others like the saltiness of corned beef. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which one you like best and which will make your Reuben sandwich the best it can be.
The Cheese: Swiss or Cheddar?
When it comes to making a perfectly delicious Reuben sandwich, the type of cheese you choose plays a huge role. Traditionally, the sandwich features Swiss cheese, which complements the salty, savory flavors of corned beef and sauerkraut. Swiss cheese is a type of hard cheese with a mild, nutty flavor, and it’s known for its stretchy, gooey texture. It’s often the go-to choice for deli sandwiches and is readily available at most grocery stores.
However, some people prefer to switch things up and use cheddar cheese instead. Cheddar cheese has a sharper flavor and a firmer texture compared to Swiss cheese. It can add a rich, tangy taste to the sandwich and is a fantastic option for those who enjoy a stronger cheese taste. Ultimately, whether to use Swiss or cheddar cheese in your Reuben sandwich comes down to personal preference. But whichever you choose, make sure it’s melted and gooey for maximum flavor!
The Sauerkraut: Why It’s an Essential Component
The sauerkraut is a key ingredient in a classic Reuben sandwich. This pickled cabbage adds a tangy and sour flavor that perfectly complements the other components of the sandwich. Sauerkraut is an essential component as it brings a unique texture and taste to the sandwich. In addition to the flavor, sauerkraut is also an excellent source of fiber, and it provides a host of vitamins and minerals.
Traditionally, sauerkraut is made by fermenting cabbage in brine. During this process, bacteria convert the natural sugars in the cabbage into lactic acid, giving it a tangy flavor. This fermented cabbage is rich in probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. Therefore, not only does sauerkraut taste great, but it’s also a great addition for a healthier Reuben sandwich. Overall, the sauerkraut component of the sandwich adds a unique flavor and texture, while also providing health benefits.
The Dressing: Russian or Thousand Island
The Reuben sandwich is a classic American dish that requires the perfect balance of ingredients to achieve its deep and rich flavor. The dressing used in this sandwich is a crucial component that can make or break the taste. There are primarily two types of dressings that are used for the Reuben sandwich – Russian or Thousand Island dressing.
Russian dressing is a tangy and slightly spicy sauce that is made using mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika. The mayonnaise acts as a base for the other ingredients and provides a creamy texture. In contrast, Thousand Island dressing is a combination of mayonnaise, ketchup, pickles, onion, and sweet relish. It has a slightly sweeter flavor and a chunkier texture compared to Russian dressing. Ultimately, the choice of dressing depends entirely on one’s personal preference, and both varieties work well with the entire sandwich.
Slicing and Assembling the Perfect Reuben Sandwich
When it comes to slicing and assembling the perfect Reuben sandwich, it’s all about the details. For starters, ensure that the bread is toasted to perfection; you want it crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Next, evenly distribute the dressing (typically Thousand Island or Russian dressing), sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese on top of one slice of bread. Top that with a healthy portion of corned beef or pastrami and another slice of Swiss cheese. Add the other slice of bread to complete the sandwich.
Now it’s time to grill the Reuben to melt the cheese and warm the meat. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly butter the outside of each slice of bread. Place the sandwich on the skillet and cook until the bread turns golden brown and the cheese is melted. Flip the sandwich and cook the other side until the bread is toasted and the cheese is fully melted. Cut the Reuben into halves or quarters and serve with a pile of crispy fries or a side of your choice. Enjoy the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and cheesy flavors in every bite.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, a Reuben sandwich is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, Russian dressing, and rye bread create a truly unforgettable experience for your taste buds. The saltiness of the corned beef, sourness of the sauerkraut, creaminess of the Swiss cheese, tanginess of the dressing, and the hearty rye bread all come together for a delicious treat.
The Reuben sandwich is not only a favorite in delis throughout the United States, it is a staple of American cuisine. Its unique blend of ingredients and flavors make it a go-to choice for many people, and it is undoubtedly a dish that people will continue to enjoy for years to come. Whether you are a fan of classic deli fare or simply enjoy a well-made sandwich, the Reuben is a must-try for any food lover.