Rueben – the Secret is the Dressings
The Reuben sandwich is a classic deli sandwich that typically consists of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on rye bread.
The history of the Reuben sandwich is somewhat debated, but it is generally agreed that it originated in the United States during the early 20th century.
One popular theory is that the Reuben was invented in the 1920s by a deli owner named Arnold Reuben, who owned Reuben's Delicatessen in New York City. According to this theory, Mr. Reuben created the sandwich when he was approached by a regular customer who requested a sandwich made with corned beef and sauerkraut. Mr. Reuben added Swiss cheese and Russian dressing, and served the sandwich on rye bread. The sandwich was a hit with customers and eventually became known as the Reuben sandwich.
Another theory suggests that the Reuben was actually invented in Omaha, Nebraska, by a grocer named Reuben Kulakofsky. According to this theory, Mr. Kulakofsky created the sandwich in the 1920s and named it after himself. The sandwich was made with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, and was served on rye bread.
Regardless of its exact origins, the Reuben sandwich has become a beloved classic in American cuisine. It is a popular item on deli menus across the country and is enjoyed by sandwich lovers around the world.
Here are some tips for creating the perfect Reuben:
Choose high-quality ingredients: Selecting high-quality corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and rye bread will make a big difference in the overall taste and texture of the sandwich.
Toast the bread: Toasting the rye bread will give it a crunchy texture that pairs well with the other ingredients.
Layer the ingredients: Start with a layer of corned beef, followed by Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing. Repeat if desired.
Grill the sandwich: Grill the sandwich in a pan or on a griddle until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
Serve with pickles: Reuben sandwiches pair well with pickles, so consider serving them on the side.
Experiment with variations: You can also try variations on the classic Reuben, such as substituting pastrami for corned beef or using coleslaw instead of sauerkraut.
By following these tips, you can create a delicious Reuben sandwich that is sure to satisfy your cravings.