The Ultimate Reuben Sandwich: Classic and Creative Variations
The Reuben sandwich. The very name conjures images of towering layers of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Russian dressing, and melted Swiss cheese, all nestled between slices of perfectly grilled rye bread. It’s a culinary masterpiece, a symphony of flavors and textures that has delighted palates for generations. But what if we told you that the Reuben, in all its glory, is also a blank canvas? While respecting the classic, this article explores how to make the perfect traditional Reuben and ventures into exciting variations that will redefine your sandwich experience.
The Classic Reuben: A Step-by-Step Guide
Before we delve into the exciting world of Reuben variations, it’s crucial to master the fundamentals. A perfectly executed classic Reuben is the foundation upon which all other Reuben adventures are built. Here’s a detailed guide to creating the quintessential Reuben sandwich:
**Ingredients:**
* **Rye Bread:** This is the cornerstone of the Reuben. Look for a marbled rye, preferably with a slightly sour taste. The bread should be sturdy enough to hold the fillings without becoming soggy.
* **Corned Beef:** This is the star of the show! Opt for high-quality corned beef, thinly sliced. The quality of the corned beef will significantly impact the overall flavor of the sandwich. You can use store-bought or, for a truly exceptional experience, try making your own corned beef.
* **Sauerkraut:** Tangy sauerkraut is essential for cutting through the richness of the corned beef and cheese. Choose sauerkraut that is well-drained and not overly sour. You can also rinse the sauerkraut slightly to reduce its acidity.
* **Swiss Cheese:** The nutty, slightly sweet flavor of Swiss cheese complements the other ingredients beautifully. Use a good quality Swiss, preferably sliced thinly.
* **Russian Dressing:** This creamy, tangy dressing is the glue that holds the Reuben together. While store-bought Russian dressing is acceptable, homemade is always better. (Recipe follows below).
* **Butter:** For grilling the bread to golden perfection.
**Homemade Russian Dressing Recipe:**
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons ketchup
* 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
* 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
* 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1/4 teaspoon paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Russian Dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together all the Russian dressing ingredients until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. **Prepare the Sauerkraut:** If the sauerkraut is very wet, drain it well and squeeze out any excess moisture. If it’s too sour for your liking, rinse it briefly under cold water.
3. **Butter the Bread:** Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of rye bread.
4. **Assemble the Sandwich:** On one slice of bread (butter-side down), spread a generous amount of Russian dressing. Layer on half of the Swiss cheese, followed by half of the corned beef, and then half of the sauerkraut. Top with the remaining corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese. Spread more Russian dressing on the other slice of bread and place it on top (butter-side up).
5. **Grill the Sandwich:** Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey. Use a spatula to gently press down on the sandwich while it’s grilling to ensure even cooking.
6. **Serve Immediately:** Remove the sandwich from the skillet and cut it in half diagonally. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as pickles, coleslaw, or potato salad.
**Tips for a Perfect Classic Reuben:**
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Sandwich:** Too much filling will make the sandwich difficult to eat and can lead to it falling apart.
* **Use Thinly Sliced Corned Beef:** Thick slices of corned beef can make the sandwich tough and chewy.
* **Don’t Skip the Russian Dressing:** The Russian dressing is essential for the Reuben’s unique flavor profile. Don’t substitute it with Thousand Island dressing, which has a different flavor.
* **Grill the Sandwich Slowly:** Grilling the sandwich over medium heat allows the cheese to melt completely and the bread to toast evenly without burning.
* **Press the Sandwich While Grilling:** Pressing the sandwich helps to compress the fillings and create a cohesive sandwich.
Reuben Variations: Expanding the Possibilities
Now that we’ve mastered the classic Reuben, let’s explore some exciting variations that will take your sandwich game to the next level. These variations play with different proteins, cheeses, sauces, and even bread, while still retaining the essence of the Reuben.
**1. The Turkey Reuben (aka Rachel Sandwich):**
* **Protein Swap:** Instead of corned beef, use thinly sliced turkey breast. Smoked turkey adds a delicious depth of flavor.
* **Sauerkraut Variation:** Some recipes call for coleslaw instead of sauerkraut, but we recommend sticking with sauerkraut for a closer resemblance to the original Reuben.
* **Everything Else:** Follow the classic Reuben recipe for the rest of the ingredients and instructions.
**Why it Works:** The turkey provides a lighter, leaner alternative to corned beef, while still complementing the tangy sauerkraut and creamy Russian dressing.
**2. The Pastrami Reuben:**
* **Protein Swap:** Substitute the corned beef with thinly sliced pastrami. The smoky, peppery flavor of pastrami adds a new dimension to the Reuben.
* **Consider Spicy Mustard:** While Russian dressing is still fantastic, a smear of spicy brown mustard on one slice of bread can enhance the pastrami’s flavor.
* **Everything Else:** Follow the classic Reuben recipe for the rest of the ingredients and instructions.
**Why it Works:** Pastrami and Reuben flavors are a match made in deli heaven. The robust flavor of pastrami pairs perfectly with the other Reuben components.
**3. The Vegetarian Reuben:**
* **Protein Swap:** Replace the corned beef with grilled or pan-fried marinated tempeh, portobello mushrooms, or beet slices. These options provide a meaty texture and savory flavor.
* **Tempeh Marinade (Example):** Soy sauce, maple syrup, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder.
* **Everything Else:** Follow the classic Reuben recipe for the rest of the ingredients and instructions.
**Why it Works:** A well-prepared vegetarian protein substitute can mimic the texture and flavor of corned beef, creating a satisfying and flavorful vegetarian Reuben.
**4. The Reuben Melt (Open-Faced Reuben):**
* **Bread Modification:** Use only one slice of rye bread per sandwich, creating an open-faced melt.
* **Assembly:** Top the rye bread with Russian dressing, corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese.
* **Broiling/Baking:** Instead of grilling, broil the open-faced sandwiches in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
**Why it Works:** This variation is a quicker and easier way to enjoy the flavors of a Reuben, perfect for a light lunch or snack.
**5. The Reuben Egg Roll:**
* **Wrapper:** Use egg roll wrappers instead of rye bread.
* **Filling:** Combine chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing.
* **Assembly:** Fill the egg roll wrappers with the Reuben mixture and roll them up tightly.
* **Frying:** Deep-fry the egg rolls until golden brown and crispy.
* **Dipping Sauce:** Serve with extra Russian dressing for dipping.
**Why it Works:** This playful twist on the Reuben transforms the classic sandwich into a crispy, portable appetizer.
**6. The Reuben Pizza:**
* **Crust:** Use your favorite pizza dough recipe or a store-bought crust.
* **Sauce:** Spread Russian dressing on the pizza crust instead of traditional tomato sauce.
* **Toppings:** Top with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese.
* **Baking:** Bake the pizza according to your pizza crust recipe or package directions.
**Why it Works:** This unconventional Reuben delivers all the classic flavors in a fun and shareable format.
**7. The Spicy Reuben:**
* **Add Heat:** Incorporate a spicy element to elevate the Reuben’s flavor profile.
* **Spicy Russian Dressing:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the Russian dressing.
* **Jalapeno Sauerkraut:** Use sauerkraut that has been fermented with jalapenos for a spicy kick.
* **Spicy Cheese:** Substitute regular Swiss cheese with pepper jack cheese.
**Why it Works:** The added heat complements the richness of the corned beef and cheese, creating a more complex and exciting flavor experience.
**8. The Reuben Quesadilla:**
* **Tortilla:** Use large flour tortillas instead of rye bread.
* **Filling:** Layer corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing onto one half of the tortilla.
* **Folding:** Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling.
* **Grilling/Pan-Frying:** Cook the quesadilla in a skillet or on a griddle until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
* **Cutting:** Cut into wedges and serve.
**Why it Works:** A quick and easy twist, the Reuben Quesadilla is perfect for a casual lunch or snack. The tortilla provides a different texture while still delivering those classic Reuben flavors.
**9. The Reuben Salad:**
* **Base:** Start with a bed of fresh greens, such as romaine lettuce or mixed greens.
* **Reuben Components:** Add chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and croutons made from rye bread.
* **Dressing:** Drizzle with Russian dressing.
**Why it Works:** This lighter alternative provides all the flavors of a Reuben without the heavy bread. It’s a great option for a healthy lunch or dinner.
**10. The Monte Cristo Reuben:**
* **Bread:** Use thick slices of challah or brioche bread instead of rye.
* **Preparation:** Assemble the sandwich with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese.
* **Egg Batter:** Dip the assembled sandwich in an egg batter (similar to French toast).
* **Pan-Frying:** Pan-fry the sandwich in butter until golden brown on both sides.
* **Powdered Sugar (Optional):** Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
**Why it Works:** This decadent variation combines the savory flavors of a Reuben with the sweetness of a Monte Cristo, creating a truly unforgettable sandwich experience.
Tips for Elevating Your Reuben Experience
No matter which Reuben variation you choose, here are some general tips for taking your sandwich-making skills to the next level:
* **Source High-Quality Ingredients:** The better the ingredients, the better the sandwich. Invest in good quality corned beef, Swiss cheese, and rye bread.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment:** Try different variations and find what you like best. The possibilities are endless!
* **Toast the Bread Properly:** Properly toasted bread adds texture and flavor to the sandwich.
* **Use a Good Spatula:** A good spatula will help you flip the sandwich without it falling apart.
* **Serve with the Right Sides:** Pickles, coleslaw, potato salad, and even a simple green salad are all great accompaniments to a Reuben sandwich.
* **Make it a Meal:** Pair your Reuben with a hearty soup for a complete and satisfying meal.
* **Consider the Cheese:** While Swiss is traditional, provolone, gruyere, or even a sharp cheddar can offer exciting flavor profiles.
* **Pickle Power:** Consider adding pickle slices or a pickle relish for an extra burst of tang.
* **Don’t Forget the Presentation:** A well-presented sandwich is more enjoyable to eat. Cut it in half diagonally and arrange it artfully on a plate.
The Final Verdict
The Reuben sandwich is a classic for a reason. Its combination of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors is simply irresistible. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or venture into the world of variations, the Reuben is sure to become a staple in your sandwich rotation. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to experience sandwich perfection. The Reuben awaits!