The Reuben sandwich is a beloved classic in the world of deli cuisine, with its rich flavors and satisfying textures. This iconic sandwich has been a staple of Jewish delis and restaurants for decades, and its popularity shows no signs of waning. But have you ever stopped to think about what makes a Reuben sandwich truly special? In this article, we’ll delve into the ingredients that make up this mouthwatering masterpiece and explore the history behind its creation.
A Brief History of the Reuben Sandwich
The origins of the Reuben sandwich are shrouded in mystery, but the most widely accepted story dates back to the 1920s in Omaha, Nebraska. According to legend, the sandwich was created by Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who owned a deli in the city. Reuben allegedly created the sandwich as a specialty item for his menu, and it quickly gained popularity among his customers.
However, some food historians argue that the Reuben sandwich may have actually been invented by Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-born grocer who lived in Omaha. Kulakofsky was known to have created a sandwich made with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, which he served to his friends and family. Regardless of who actually created the Reuben sandwich, it’s clear that its origins are rooted in the rich culinary traditions of Eastern European Jewish cuisine.
The Essential Ingredients of a Reuben Sandwich
So, what makes a Reuben sandwich a Reuben sandwich? The answer lies in the combination of ingredients, which typically include:
- Corned beef: Thinly sliced corned beef is the star of the show in a Reuben sandwich. The beef is usually cured in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices before being sliced and served.
- Sauerkraut: Finely shredded sauerkraut adds a tangy, slightly sour flavor to the sandwich. The sauerkraut is usually made from fermented cabbage and is a key component of the Reuben’s flavor profile.
- Swiss cheese: Melted Swiss cheese binds the sandwich together and adds a creamy, rich texture. The cheese is usually grated or sliced thinly before being added to the sandwich.
- Rye bread: The bread is a crucial component of the Reuben sandwich, providing a sturdy base for the filling. The bread is usually made with rye flour and is often grilled or toasted before being served.
- Thousand Island dressing: A tangy, creamy Thousand Island dressing is often served on the side of a Reuben sandwich, adding an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
The Role of Corned Beef in the Reuben Sandwich
Corned beef is the centerpiece of the Reuben sandwich, and its quality can make or break the dish. The beef is usually made from the flat cut of the brisket, which is cured in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices before being sliced. The curing process gives the beef its distinctive flavor and texture, which is both tender and flavorful.
When selecting corned beef for a Reuben sandwich, look for high-quality meat that is thinly sliced and has a good balance of fat and lean meat. The fat content will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful, while the lean meat will provide a satisfying texture.
The Importance of Sauerkraut in the Reuben Sandwich
Sauerkraut is a key component of the Reuben sandwich, adding a tangy, slightly sour flavor to the dish. The sauerkraut is usually made from fermented cabbage, which is finely shredded before being added to the sandwich.
When selecting sauerkraut for a Reuben sandwich, look for high-quality, fermented sauerkraut that has a good balance of flavor and texture. Avoid sauerkraut that is too salty or too sour, as it can overpower the other ingredients in the sandwich.
The Role of Swiss Cheese in the Reuben Sandwich
Swiss cheese is a crucial component of the Reuben sandwich, providing a creamy, rich texture that binds the sandwich together. The cheese is usually grated or sliced thinly before being added to the sandwich.
When selecting Swiss cheese for a Reuben sandwich, look for high-quality cheese that is rich and creamy. Avoid cheese that is too mild or too strong, as it can overpower the other ingredients in the sandwich.
The Importance of Rye Bread in the Reuben Sandwich
Rye bread is the foundation of the Reuben sandwich, providing a sturdy base for the filling. The bread is usually made with rye flour and is often grilled or toasted before being served.
When selecting rye bread for a Reuben sandwich, look for high-quality bread that is dense and chewy. Avoid bread that is too light or too dark, as it can affect the overall flavor and texture of the sandwich.
Variations on the Classic Reuben Sandwich
While the classic Reuben sandwich is a timeless favorite, there are many variations on the theme that are worth exploring. Some popular variations include:
- The Rachel: A variation on the Reuben sandwich that substitutes pastrami for the corned beef.
- The Reuben Dog: A variation on the Reuben sandwich that substitutes a hot dog for the corned beef.
- The Veggie Reuben: A variation on the Reuben sandwich that substitutes vegetarian ingredients, such as tempeh or tofu, for the corned beef.
Regional Twists on the Reuben Sandwich
The Reuben sandwich is a beloved classic across the United States, but different regions have their own unique twists on the theme. Some popular regional variations include:
- New York-style Reuben: A variation on the Reuben sandwich that is popular in New York City, characterized by the use of thick-cut corned beef and a generous helping of sauerkraut.
- Chicago-style Reuben: A variation on the Reuben sandwich that is popular in Chicago, characterized by the use of thinly sliced corned beef and a lighter helping of sauerkraut.
- California-style Reuben: A variation on the Reuben sandwich that is popular in California, characterized by the use of avocado and sprouts in addition to the traditional ingredients.
Conclusion
The Reuben sandwich is a beloved classic in the world of deli cuisine, with its rich flavors and satisfying textures. By understanding the ingredients and history behind this iconic sandwich, we can appreciate its enduring popularity and create our own delicious variations on the theme. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an innovator, the Reuben sandwich is a dish that is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
| Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|
| Corned beef | Thinly sliced corned beef, usually made from the flat cut of the brisket |
| Sauerkraut | Finely shredded sauerkraut, usually made from fermented cabbage |
| Swiss cheese | Melted Swiss cheese, usually grated or sliced thinly |
| Rye bread | Dense and chewy rye bread, often grilled or toasted |
| Thousand Island dressing | Tangy and creamy Thousand Island dressing, often served on the side |
By exploring the ingredients and history behind the Reuben sandwich, we can gain a deeper appreciation for this beloved classic and create our own delicious variations on the theme.
What is a Reuben sandwich?
A Reuben sandwich is a classic deli delight that consists of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, grilled between slices of rye bread. The combination of flavors and textures creates a unique and delicious taste experience that has made the Reuben a staple of deli cuisine.
The origins of the Reuben sandwich are often attributed to Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who allegedly created the dish in the early 20th century. However, some sources suggest that the sandwich may have been inspired by earlier European dishes, such as the German “Reubenschnitzel” or the Austrian “Wiener Schnitzel.”
What type of corned beef is typically used in a Reuben sandwich?
The type of corned beef used in a Reuben sandwich is usually thinly sliced and cured in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices. The curing process gives the corned beef its distinctive flavor and texture, which is tender and slightly sweet. Some delis may use a more premium cut of corned beef, such as pastrami or brisket, but the classic Reuben recipe calls for a more traditional corned beef.
When selecting corned beef for a Reuben sandwich, look for a product that is labeled as “flat-cut” or “thinly sliced.” This will ensure that the corned beef is easy to stack and grill, and that it cooks evenly. Avoid using pre-cooked or canned corned beef, as it may be too salty or dry.
What is the role of sauerkraut in a Reuben sandwich?
Sauerkraut is a key ingredient in a Reuben sandwich, providing a tangy and slightly sour flavor that complements the richness of the corned beef and cheese. The sauerkraut is usually drained and rinsed before being added to the sandwich, to remove excess moisture and prevent the bread from becoming soggy.
The type of sauerkraut used in a Reuben sandwich can vary, but traditional recipes call for a finely shredded or chopped sauerkraut that is made from fermented cabbage. Some delis may use a more premium or artisanal sauerkraut, such as a caraway-seed or juniper-berry flavored variety, but the classic recipe calls for a more straightforward sauerkraut.
What type of cheese is typically used in a Reuben sandwich?
The type of cheese used in a Reuben sandwich is usually a mild and creamy Swiss cheese, such as Emmental or Gruyère. The cheese is sliced thinly and melted between the corned beef and sauerkraut, creating a rich and gooey texture that binds the sandwich together.
When selecting cheese for a Reuben sandwich, look for a product that is labeled as “Swiss-style” or “Emmental-style.” This will ensure that the cheese has the right flavor and texture for the sandwich. Avoid using a stronger or more pungent cheese, such as cheddar or blue cheese, as it may overpower the other ingredients.
What is Thousand Island dressing, and how is it used in a Reuben sandwich?
Thousand Island dressing is a creamy and tangy condiment that is made from a mixture of mayonnaise, ketchup, and relish. It is a key ingredient in a Reuben sandwich, providing a rich and creamy flavor that complements the corned beef and cheese.
In a Reuben sandwich, the Thousand Island dressing is usually applied to one or both slices of bread, depending on personal preference. Some delis may also use a lighter or more flavorful version of the dressing, such as a homemade or artisanal variety. When using Thousand Island dressing in a Reuben sandwich, be sure to apply it sparingly, as it can make the bread soggy if used excessively.
How is a Reuben sandwich typically grilled or cooked?
A Reuben sandwich is typically grilled or cooked in a pan or griddle, using a small amount of butter or oil to prevent the bread from sticking. The sandwich is usually cooked over medium heat, until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
When grilling a Reuben sandwich, be sure to press down gently on the sandwich with a spatula, to ensure that the bread is toasted evenly and the cheese is melted. Some delis may also use a panini press or grill to cook the sandwich, which can help to create a crispy and evenly toasted crust.
Can a Reuben sandwich be made with vegetarian or vegan ingredients?
While traditional Reuben sandwiches are made with corned beef and cheese, it is possible to create a vegetarian or vegan version of the dish using alternative ingredients. Some options might include using marinated and grilled portobello mushrooms or eggplant instead of corned beef, or using a vegan cheese substitute instead of Swiss cheese.
When making a vegetarian or vegan Reuben sandwich, be sure to choose ingredients that have a similar texture and flavor to the traditional ingredients. For example, using a meaty and savory mushroom or eggplant can help to replicate the texture of the corned beef, while a creamy and tangy vegan cheese substitute can help to replicate the flavor of the Swiss cheese.