The Reuben sandwich, a classic combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, grilled between slices of rye bread. It’s a satisfying and flavorful meal that can be elevated even further with the right sides and accompaniments. But what do you serve with a Reuben?
The Classic Pairings
Traditionally, a Reuben sandwich is served with a side of coleslaw or potato salad. These creamy, cool sides provide a nice contrast to the warm, savory sandwich. The tangy flavors of the slaw or potato salad also help to cut through the richness of the corned beef and cheese.
Coleslaw: A refreshing side of coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and a variety of spices is a classic pairing for the Reuben. The crunch of the cabbage and the creaminess of the mayonnaise provide a nice textural contrast to the soft, dense sandwich.
Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad with diced potatoes, mayonnaise, and herbs is another popular side dish that pairs well with the Reuben. The starchiness of the potatoes helps to soak up the juices of the sandwich, while the herbs add a bright, fresh flavor.
Beverages to Pair with Your Reuben
What you drink with your Reuben can also enhance the overall dining experience. Here are a few beverage options that pair well with this classic sandwich:
Brewed Iced Tea: A glass of brewed iced tea, sweetened with a little sugar or honey, can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the Reuben.
Craft Beer: For those who enjoy a good beer, a malty, amber-colored brew such as a Märzen or an Oktoberfest can complement the flavors of the corned beef and sauerkraut.
New York-Style Pickle Juice: For a truly authentic deli experience, try serving your Reuben with a side of New York-style pickle juice. This salty, tangy liquid can help to cut through the richness of the sandwich and add a burst of flavor to each bite.
Other Sides to Consider
While coleslaw and potato salad are classic pairings for the Reuben, there are many other sides that can add variety and interest to your meal. Here are a few options to consider:
Baked Beans: Sweet and smoky baked beans can provide a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the Reuben.
Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables such as asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini can add a pop of color and freshness to your plate.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries can provide a satisfying crunch and a touch of sweetness to balance out the savory flavors of the sandwich.
Desserts to Follow Your Reuben
After enjoying a satisfying Reuben sandwich, you may want to consider a sweet treat to round out your meal. Here are a few desserts that pair well with the flavors of the Reuben:
Cheesecake: A rich and creamy cheesecake with a graham cracker crust can provide a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the sandwich.
Apple Pie: A classic apple pie with a flaky crust and a scoop of vanilla ice cream can provide a warm and comforting finish to your meal.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Warm and gooey chocolate chip cookies can provide a sweet and satisfying conclusion to your Reuben sandwich.
International Twists on the Reuben
While the classic Reuben is a beloved sandwich, there are many international twists and variations that can add interest and excitement to your meal. Here are a few examples:
Korean-Style Reuben: Add some spicy kimchi slaw to your Reuben for a bold and flavorful twist on the classic sandwich.
Cuban-Style Reuben: Add some ham, roasted pork, and pickles to your Reuben for a Cuban-inspired sandwich that’s full of flavor and texture.
Russian-Style Reuben: Add some chopped fresh dill and a side of borscht to your Reuben for a Russian-inspired twist on the classic sandwich.
Conclusion
The Reuben sandwich is a classic combination of flavors and textures that can be elevated even further with the right sides and accompaniments. Whether you stick with traditional pairings like coleslaw and potato salad, or venture out into new territories with international twists and creative sides, the Reuben is a versatile sandwich that can be enjoyed in many different ways. So next time you’re in the mood for a satisfying and flavorful meal, consider what you can serve with your Reuben to take it to the next level.
What is a Reuben sandwich?
A Reuben sandwich is a type of sandwich that typically consists of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, grilled between slices of rye bread. The combination of flavors and textures in a Reuben sandwich makes it a delicious and satisfying meal.
The origins of the Reuben sandwich are unclear, but it is believed to have been invented in the early 20th century in the United States. Some claim that it was created by Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur, while others attribute its creation to different individuals. Regardless of its origin, the Reuben sandwich has become a beloved dish around the world.
What are some popular sides to serve with a Reuben sandwich?
There are many delicious sides that pair perfectly with a Reuben sandwich. Some popular options include potato salad, coleslaw, pickles, and French fries. These sides complement the flavors and textures of the sandwich without overpowering it.
You can also consider serving more substantial sides, such as a green salad or a bowl of soup. If you want to keep the meal light, a side of fruit or a small green salad with a light vinaigrette would be a refreshing option.
Can I customize my Reuben sandwich with different ingredients?
Yes, you can customize your Reuben sandwich to your liking by substituting or adding different ingredients. For example, you can use pastrami or roast beef instead of corned beef, or add some sliced turkey or ham for extra protein.
You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, or add some caramelized onions or bell peppers for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute the corned beef with avocado or grilled portobello mushrooms.
What type of bread should I use for a Reuben sandwich?
Traditionally, a Reuben sandwich is made with rye bread, which provides a dense and slightly sweet base for the sandwich. You can use either dark rye or light rye, depending on your personal preference.
If you can’t find rye bread or prefer a different type of bread, you can also use a dense and chewy bread, such as pumpernickel or ciabatta. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the sandwich may be slightly different.
How do I assemble a Reuben sandwich?
Assembling a Reuben sandwich is relatively simple. Start by buttering two slices of rye bread on the outside. Then, place a slice of corned beef on one slice of bread, followed by a spoonful of sauerkraut, a slice of Swiss cheese, and a dollop of Thousand Island dressing.
Finally, place the other slice of bread on top and grill the sandwich in a pan or griddle until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. You can also grill the sandwich in a panini press for a crispy and evenly toasted sandwich.
Can I make a Reuben sandwich ahead of time?
Yes, you can make a Reuben sandwich ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble it just before serving to ensure that the bread stays crispy and the cheese stays melted. If you need to prepare the ingredients ahead of time, you can cook the corned beef and sauerkraut, and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day.
You can also assemble the sandwich without grilling it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to a few hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply grill the sandwich until it’s toasted and the cheese is melted.
Are Reuben sandwiches suitable for special diets?
Reuben sandwiches can be adapted to suit special diets, such as gluten-free or vegetarian diets. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free rye bread or substitute the bread with a gluten-free alternative, such as a portobello mushroom cap.
For a vegetarian option, substitute the corned beef with a plant-based protein source, such as avocado or grilled portobello mushrooms. You can also use a vegan version of Thousand Island dressing or mayonnaise to accommodate dairy-free diets.