There’s something about a perfectly made Reuben sandwich that takes a simple meal to a level that can only be described as an experience. It’s the type of sandwich that you savor every bite of, and it takes you on a culinary adventure with its unique blend of flavors and textures.
As a lifelong food enthusiast, I must say that making a Reuben sandwich is almost a rite of passage for any sandwich lover. So, today I’m thrilled to share my go-to recipe for creating this classic delight at home.
Classic Reuben Sandwich
Ingredients
Before we dive into the spicy, tangy, and cheesy world of the Reuben, let’s cover the ingredients of this recipe:
- 4 slices of rye bread
- 8 slices of Swiss cheese
- 6 ounces of corned beef, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup of sauerkraut, drained
- 1/4 cup of Russian dressing
- 2 tablespoons of butter, softened
Instructions
- Start with prepping your work station. Lay out all your ingredients within easy reach. This will make the assembling process smoother.
- Begin by buttering one side of each slice of rye bread. The butter is going to help you get that golden, crispy crust that’s so vital to a good Reuben.
- Take two slices of bread and spread the Russian dressing evenly on the unbuttered sides.
- Place a layer of Swiss cheese on top of the dressing.
- Now, distribute your corned beef slices over the cheese. Make sure it’s evenly layered so you get a bit of corned beef in every mouthful.
- Spoon your drained sauerkraut over the corned beef. Again, distribution is key.
- Top off the sauerkraut with another layer of Swiss cheese. This not only adds flavor but helps everything stick together once it melts.
- Your sandwich is almost ready to meet the heat. Cap it off with another slice of bread, making sure that the buttered side is facing outwards.
- Preheat a pan or skillet over medium heat. Once it’s warm, place your sandwiches in the pan.
- Grill each side for about 3-5 minutes until the bread is toasted to a beautiful golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Your Reuben sandwich is ready! Transfer it to a plate, cut it in half to reveal those delicious layers, and enjoy immediately.
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?
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Tips for Customization
One of the joys of making a Reuben sandwich is that it’s customizable. Not a fan of corned beef? Swap it out for pastrami or turkey. If you prefer a tangier dressing, try substituting Thousand Island dressing for the Russian.
How to Store
Let’s be real, a Reuben sandwich is best enjoyed fresh. But if you must store it, wrap it in aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stove to revive that crispy texture.
Conclusion
Creating the perfect Reuben sandwich doesn’t require professional skills, just a love for good food and the willingness to try. I encourage you to enjoy the process as much as you do the eating.
FAQs
- Can I make a gluten-free Reuben sandwich?
Yes, simply replace the rye bread with your favorite gluten-free bread.
- What goes well with a Reuben sandwich?
A Reuben sandwich pairs wonderfully with a pickle or a small serving of coleslaw.
- Is there a way to make a vegetarian Reuben?
Absolutely, try swapping the corned beef with grilled tempeh or mushrooms.
Remember, the heart of cooking lies in experimentation. So go ahead, play around with flavors and ingredients, and make this classic sandwich truly your own. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner for one or a lunch to impress guests, the Reuben sandwich is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the cooking journey, and most importantly, savor every delicious bite!
