Reuben Sandwich

The Reuben Sandwich is a classic American deli favorite that’s loved by many. With layers of delicious ingredients packed between two slices of toasted rye bread, this sandwich is tasty and filling. If you’ve never had a Reuben, you’re in for a treat! This article will guide you through everything you need to know about making your own Reuben Sandwich, from preparation to serving and storing.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

There are many reasons to fall in love with the Reuben Sandwich. First, it has a unique combination of flavors. The salty, savory corned beef pairs beautifully with the tangy sauerkraut and creamy Thousand Island dressing. The melted Swiss cheese adds a rich, gooey texture that completes the sandwich perfectly. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also has a wonderful crunch from the crispy grilled bread.

Making a Reuben Sandwich at home is also very easy. You only need a few ingredients, and you can whip it up in no time. Whether you’re having a casual lunch or a cozy dinner, the Reuben is a great option that will satisfy your hunger.

How to Prepare Reuben Sandwich

Ingredients:

• 8 slices marble rye bread
• Butter (for grilling)
• 1 lb sliced corned beef
• 1 1⁄2 cups sauerkraut, drained
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 1⁄2 cup Thousand Island dressing

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bread:
   Start by laying out the slices of marble rye bread. You will need two slices for each sandwich.
2. Butter the Bread:
   Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread. This will help the bread get a lovely golden color when grilled.
3. Assemble the Sandwich:
   For each sandwich, place one slice of bread butter-side down on a clean surface or a cutting board.
   • Add a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the bread.
   • Pile on about 1/4 pound of sliced corned beef.
   • Add 1/4 cup of drained sauerkraut on top of the corned beef.
   • Spread 1 tablespoon of Thousand Island dressing on the other slice of bread.
   • Place this second slice of bread on top of the sauerkraut, with the butter-side facing out.
4. Grill the Sandwich:
   Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the sandwich in the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until the bottom is golden brown.
   • Use a spatula to carefully flip the sandwich over. Grill the other side for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve:
   Once both sides are grilled, remove the sandwich from the pan. Let it cool for a minute before slicing it in half.
6. Enjoy:
   Serve your Reuben Sandwich with some pickles or chips. You can also enjoy it with a side of coleslaw for a perfect meal!

How to Serve Reuben Sandwich

The Reuben Sandwich is very versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy it hot right off the grill or let it rest for a minute if you prefer. Here are some serving suggestions:

• With Sides: Pair your Reuben Sandwich with salty potato chips, crispy fries, or a simple side salad. These sides balance the richness of the sandwich well.
• With Pickles: A serving of dill pickles adds a nice crunch and acidity that complements the flavors of the Reuben. They are a classic choice and are often served alongside deli sandwiches.
• As Part of a Platter: If you are hosting a get-together, consider making multiple Reuben Sandwiches and serving them on a platter. You can add different types of sandwiches for variety and create an appealing spread.

How to Store Reuben Sandwich

If you happen to have leftover Reuben Sandwiches, you can store them for later. Here’s how:

• Refrigeration: Allow the sandwich to cool down to room temperature. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat the sandwich, you can grill it again in a skillet over medium heat until it’s warm and crispy. You can also use a microwave, but this may make the bread soggy. For the best results, stick to grilling.

Tips for Preparing Reuben Sandwich

Making the perfect Reuben Sandwich can be easy with a few helpful tips:

• Use Good Quality Ingredients: The flavor of your Reuben Sandwich greatly depends on the quality of each ingredient. Choose fresh rye bread, high-quality corned beef, and genuine Swiss cheese for the best taste.
• Draining the Sauerkraut: Make sure you drain the sauerkraut well to avoid a soggy sandwich. You can press it with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
• Grill Slowly: When grilling, cook slowly on medium heat. This allows the cheese to melt evenly and gives the bread time to become crispy without burning.
• Experiment with Dressings: While Thousand Island dressing is traditional, you might also want to try Russian dressing or even a mustard spread for a twist on the classic flavor.

Variations

Feel free to play around with your Reuben Sandwich! Here are some ideas for variations:

• Turkey Reuben: Substitute the corned beef with sliced turkey. This lighter option is delicious and still retains the classic Reuben theme.
• Vegetarian Reuben: Use roasted vegetables or a plant-based meat alternative instead of meat. You can add elements like grilled zucchini, mushrooms, or tempeh with the sauerkraut and cheese.
• Spicy Reuben: Add some jalapeños or spicy mustard to kick up the heat. This variation will give the sandwich an exciting twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make a Reuben Sandwich ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and assemble your sandwich just before grilling. It’s best to store the individual ingredients separately until you are ready to cook.

2. Can I freeze a Reuben Sandwich?

While it is possible to freeze a Reuben Sandwich, it is not recommended due to the moisture from the sauerkraut. If you do freeze it, make sure to wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn. For best results, assemble and grill your sandwiches fresh.

3. What type of bread is best for a Reuben Sandwich?

The classic choice for a Reuben Sandwich is marble rye bread, which combines light and dark rye. However, you can also use just rye bread or even sourdough if you prefer.

Conclusion

The Reuben Sandwich is a delicious and satisfying meal that combines rich flavors and textures in each bite. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create this classic deli dish right in your kitchen. Remember to experiment with the ingredients and variations for your own twist on the Reuben. Enjoy making this delightful sandwich, and soon it may become a favorite in your home!