Introduction: The Timeless Appeal of the Reuben Sandwich
Imagine the joy of sinking your teeth into a Reuben sandwich with crunchy, buttery rye bread, brimming with layers of tender corned beef, melty Swiss cheese, and a tangy hit from sauerkraut. The perfect balance of flavors, textures, and richness makes it a true classic. The Reuben has been a favorite for generations, and whether you’ve enjoyed it at a deli or crafted it in your kitchen, this sandwich evokes a sense of comfort and nostalgia.
Why do people continue to crave the Reuben? It’s simple: it’s a crowd-pleaser, full of bold flavors that seem to complement each other perfectly. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this iconic sandwich from its fascinating history to how you can make the perfect Reuben at home.
Table of Contents
What is a Reuben Sandwich?
A Classic Deli Staple
The Reuben sandwich is a hearty, grilled sandwich that traditionally consists of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, all nestled between slices of rye bread. It’s not just a sandwich it’s a flavor-packed experience. The corned beef brings a tender, savory taste, while the sauerkraut adds a delightful tang, balanced by the richness of Swiss cheese and the creamy zest of Russian dressing.
A Flavor Powerhouse
When you take a bite, the crispy exterior of the grilled bread gives way to the melted cheese, followed by the salty richness of the corned beef and the sharp tang of the sauerkraut. The Russian dressing ties it all together, offering a creamy contrast that pulls the flavors into perfect harmony. This is why it has been a beloved choice at delis across the world for so many years.
Popular Variations
While the traditional Reuben is undoubtedly delicious, several variations offer exciting twists on the classic recipe:
- Turkey Reuben (Rachel Sandwich): Swap out the corned beef for turkey and replace the sauerkraut with coleslaw for a lighter version of the Reuben.
- Pastrami Reuben: Substitute the corned beef with pastrami for a smoky, peppery twist.
- Vegetarian Reuben: For those who don’t eat meat, a vegetarian version can be made by using grilled tempeh or mushrooms instead of the meat.
The History of the Reuben Sandwich
Where It All Began
The origins of the Reuben sandwich are a bit murky. One popular theory traces its roots to Omaha, Nebraska, where Reuben Kulakofsky, a Jewish immigrant, is said to have invented the sandwich in the 1920s. According to the story, Reuben created the sandwich for a local poker game, and it quickly became a hit, spreading to delis and eventually becoming a national favorite.
Another story places the creation of the Reuben sandwich in New York City, where it was introduced in Katz’s Deli or The Carnegie Deli, both iconic establishments known for serving hearty sandwiches.
Rise to Fame
Regardless of where it was first created, the Reuben sandwich gained fame as a staple of Jewish delis and quickly became a comfort food favorite. It’s hard to imagine a deli menu without it its hearty, satisfying nature makes it a perfect choice for lunch or dinner.
In 1950, the Reuben sandwich even got its day of recognition, with National Reuben Sandwich Day celebrated on March 14. It’s clear that this sandwich isn’t just a meal it’s a symbol of culinary nostalgia.
Why It’s Still a Favorite Today
So, why has the Reuben remained a beloved option for decades? The answer lies in its unbeatable combination of flavors. The warm, crispy bread and the tender, savory meat pair perfectly with the tangy sauerkraut and rich dressing, creating a sandwich that satisfies every craving.
Ingredients for the Perfect Reuben Sandwich
To make a perfect Reuben sandwich, you’ll need a few key ingredients. While there’s room for personal tweaks, the following ingredients are what you need to achieve that classic flavor profile:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Rye Bread | 2 slices | Adds a hearty, slightly tangy base |
| Corned Beef | 5-6 oz | Tender, flavorful protein |
| Sauerkraut | ¼ cup | Brings a tangy crunch |
| Swiss Cheese | 2 slices | Melts into creamy goodness |
| Russian Dressing | 2 tbsp | Provides a creamy, tangy contrast |
| Butter | 1 tbsp | Helps achieve a crispy, golden crust |
Pro Tip:
For the best Reuben sandwich, use freshly sliced corned beef from a deli and ensure your sauerkraut is well-drained to avoid sogginess. It’s all about the balance of flavors and textures.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Classic Reuben Sandwich
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by slicing the rye bread and buttering one side of each slice. This butter will help you achieve a crispy, golden crust as you grill the sandwich. Drain the sauerkraut well and set it aside. This is a crucial step to avoid sogginess.
2. Assemble the Sandwich
On the buttered side of one slice of bread, place a slice of Swiss cheese. Then, add about 5-6 oz of corned beef (feel free to add more if you love extra meat!). Layer the sauerkraut evenly on top, and drizzle on Russian dressing. Finish with another slice of Swiss cheese and top with the second slice of rye bread, butter-side up.
3. Grill to Perfection
Place the sandwich in a preheated skillet over medium-low heat. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula to help the cheese melt and the bread toast evenly. Keep an eye on it to make sure the bread doesn’t burn but gets perfectly golden and crisp.
4. Serve & Enjoy
Once both sides are golden and the cheese is melted, carefully remove the sandwich from the skillet. Cut it diagonally and serve with pickles, potato chips, or a side of coleslaw for a complete meal.
Reuben Sandwich Variations You’ll Love
While the classic Reuben is unbeatable, there are plenty of variations to try. Here are a few options to mix things up:
1. Turkey Reuben (Rachel Sandwich)
For a lighter twist, swap out the corned beef for turkey and replace the sauerkraut with coleslaw. The turkey adds a milder flavor, while the coleslaw gives it a creamy, crunchy texture.
2. Pastrami Reuben
Substitute the corned beef with pastrami, which has a richer, smokier flavor. This version adds a peppery kick that sets it apart from the traditional Reuben.
3. Vegetarian Reuben
If you’re looking for a plant-based version, you can use grilled mushrooms or tempeh in place of the meat. Choose vegan Swiss cheese and a dairy-free dressing for a fully vegan experience.
4. Open-Faced Reuben
Try serving your Reuben open-faced, with an extra slice of cheese on top. Broil it in the oven until the cheese is bubbling and golden for a deliciously cheesy variation.
Expert Tips for the Best Reuben Sandwich
Here are some tips to help you make the best Reuben possible:
✔ Use high-quality rye bread – The bread is the base of the sandwich, so make sure it’s sturdy and flavorful.
✔ Grill on medium-low heat – This ensures the bread gets crispy without burning, and the cheese melts perfectly.
✔ Don’t overload the sandwich with ingredients – Keep the balance between the bread, meat, cheese, and sauce for the best taste.
✔ Press gently while grilling – This helps the sandwich stay together and ensures everything gets heated evenly.
How to Store & Reheat a Reuben Sandwich
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, wrap your sandwich in foil or place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating for Best Results
To reheat, wrap the sandwich in foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. You can also reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What’s the difference between a Reuben and a Rachel Sandwich?
A Reuben uses corned beef and sauerkraut, while a Rachel replaces the corned beef with turkey and the sauerkraut with coleslaw.
2. Can I make a Reuben sandwich without sauerkraut?
Yes, you can replace sauerkraut with coleslaw, caramelized onions, or even grilled vegetables for a different flavor profile.
3. Is Thousand Island dressing the same as Russian dressing?
Though similar, Russian dressing is spicier and tangier, while Thousand Island is sweeter and chunkier.
4. What’s the best cheese for a Reuben sandwich?
Swiss cheese is traditional, but provolone or gruyere also works well if you want to experiment with flavors.
5. Can I make a gluten-free Reuben sandwich?
Yes! Use gluten-free rye-style bread and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Conclusion: Why You Need to Try This Classic Reuben Sandwich Recipe
The Reuben sandwich is more than just a meal it’s a delicious journey of bold flavors and textures. Whether you stick to the classic or experiment with variations, you’ll be enjoying a sandwich that has stood the test of time.
So why wait? Get your ingredients together and make the perfect Reuben sandwich today your taste buds will thank you!
👉 Tried making a Reuben? Share your experience in the comments below or let us know your favorite twist on this classic sandwich!