The Ultimate Guide to What Goes Well with Reubens

The Reuben sandwich, a classic combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, grilled to perfection between slices of rye bread, is a staple of delis and diners everywhere. But what makes this sandwich truly special is the variety of sides and accompaniments that can elevate it to new heights. In this article, we’ll explore the best options for what goes well with Reubens, from classic combinations to more adventurous pairings.

Classic Combinations

When it comes to pairing sides with a Reuben, there are a few classic combinations that are hard to beat.

Potato Salad

A creamy potato salad with diced potatoes, mayonnaise, and herbs is a timeless pairing for Reubens. The cool, creamy texture of the potato salad provides a nice contrast to the warm, savory flavors of the sandwich.

Coleslaw

A refreshing side of coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and vinegar helps cut the richness of the Reuben. The crunchy texture of the slaw also provides a nice contrast to the softness of the sandwich.

Pickles

Thinly sliced dill pickles are a classic accompaniment to Reubens. The tangy, salty flavor of the pickles complements the savory flavors of the sandwich, while the crunchy texture adds a nice depth to the dish.

More Adventurous Pairings

While classic combinations are always a safe bet, there are many other options for what goes well with Reubens. Here are a few more adventurous pairings to consider:

French Fries

For a more indulgent take on the classic Reuben, consider pairing it with a side of crispy French fries. The salty, crunchy fries provide a nice contrast to the softness of the sandwich, while the rich flavors of the fries complement the savory flavors of the Reuben.

Onion Rings

Another crispy, indulgent option for pairing with Reubens is onion rings. The sweet, caramelized flavor of the onions pairs nicely with the savory flavors of the sandwich, while the crunchy texture adds a nice depth to the dish.

Tomato Soup

For a comforting, indulgent take on the classic Reuben, consider pairing it with a bowl of creamy tomato soup. The rich, savory flavors of the soup complement the flavors of the sandwich, while the warm, comforting texture provides a nice contrast to the cool, creamy texture of the Thousand Island dressing.

Beverages

No meal is complete without a drink, and when it comes to pairing beverages with Reubens, there are many options to consider.

Soft Drinks

For a classic pairing, consider a glass of cola or root beer. The sweet, fizzy flavor of the soda complements the savory flavors of the Reuben, while the bubbles help cut the richness of the sandwich.

Beer

For a more adult take on the classic Reuben, consider pairing it with a cold beer. A crisp, refreshing lager or pilsner pairs nicely with the savory flavors of the sandwich, while a richer, more full-bodied beer like a stout or porter complements the bold flavors of the Reuben.

Coffee

For a more low-key take on the classic Reuben, consider pairing it with a cup of coffee. The rich, bold flavors of the coffee complement the savory flavors of the sandwich, while the warm, comforting texture provides a nice contrast to the cool, creamy texture of the Thousand Island dressing.

Desserts

No meal is complete without dessert, and when it comes to pairing sweet treats with Reubens, there are many options to consider.

Cheesecake

A classic pairing for Reubens is a slice of creamy cheesecake. The rich, creamy texture of the cheesecake complements the savory flavors of the sandwich, while the sweet flavor provides a nice contrast to the bold flavors of the Reuben.

Apple Pie

For a more traditional take on dessert, consider pairing your Reuben with a slice of warm apple pie. The sweet, comforting flavor of the pie complements the savory flavors of the sandwich, while the warm, flaky texture provides a nice contrast to the cool, creamy texture of the Thousand Island dressing.

Conclusion

When it comes to pairing sides and accompaniments with Reubens, the options are endless. From classic combinations like potato salad and coleslaw to more adventurous pairings like French fries and onion rings, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and indulgent or light and refreshing, there’s a pairing out there that’s sure to elevate your Reuben to new heights.

In conclusion, the Reuben sandwich is a versatile dish that can be paired with a wide range of sides and accompaniments. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and indulgent, there’s a pairing out there that’s sure to elevate your Reuben to new heights.

What is a Reuben and what are its main ingredients?

A Reuben 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 makes it a popular choice for lunch or dinner.

The main ingredients in a Reuben are corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, Thousand Island dressing, and rye bread. The corned beef provides a salty, meaty flavor, while the sauerkraut adds a tangy, slightly sour taste. The Swiss cheese melts and adds creaminess, while the Thousand Island dressing adds a rich, slightly sweet flavor. The rye bread provides a dense, slightly sweet base for the sandwich.

What are some popular side dishes that go well with Reubens?

Some popular side dishes that go well with Reubens include potato salad, coleslaw, and French fries. Potato salad is a classic pairing for Reubens, as the creamy dressing and diced potatoes complement the flavors in the sandwich. Coleslaw is another popular choice, as the crunchy texture and slightly sweet flavor provide a nice contrast to the richness of the Reuben.

French fries are also a popular side dish for Reubens, as the crispy exterior and fluffy interior provide a satisfying contrast in texture. Other side dishes that go well with Reubens include pickles, chips, and onion rings. Ultimately, the choice of side dish will depend on personal preference and the desired level of richness and flavor.

What are some good beverage options to pair with a Reuben?

Some good beverage options to pair with a Reuben include soda, iced tea, and beer. Soda, such as ginger ale or root beer, can help to cut the richness of the sandwich, while iced tea can provide a refreshing contrast. Beer, particularly a dark or amber beer, can complement the flavors in the Reuben and add to the overall dining experience.

For those who prefer a non-caffeinated beverage, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or a glass of milk can also be a good choice. Ultimately, the choice of beverage will depend on personal preference and the desired level of flavor and refreshment.

Can I customize my Reuben with different ingredients?

Yes, you can customize your Reuben with different ingredients to suit your tastes. Some popular variations include using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, or adding sliced meats, such as turkey or ham. You can also add some caramelized onions or bell peppers to give the sandwich some extra flavor.

Additionally, you can use different types of bread, such as sourdough or ciabatta, or add some spicy mustard or hot sauce to give the sandwich a kick. Some people also like to add some sliced tomatoes or lettuce to add some freshness to the sandwich. The key is to experiment and find the combination that works best for you.

Are Reubens a good option for a vegetarian or vegan diet?

Traditional Reubens are not a good option for a vegetarian or vegan diet, as they typically contain corned beef and Swiss cheese. However, there are some vegetarian and vegan alternatives that can be used to make a Reuben-style sandwich. For example, you can use sliced tofu or tempeh instead of corned beef, and vegan cheese instead of Swiss cheese.

You can also use sauerkraut and Thousand Island dressing to give the sandwich a similar flavor profile to a traditional Reuben. Some vegetarian and vegan delis and restaurants also offer Reuben-style sandwiches made with plant-based ingredients. It’s always a good idea to check with the restaurant or deli to see what options are available.

Can I make a Reuben at home, or do I need to go to a deli?

You can definitely make a Reuben at home, and it’s actually quite easy. All you need is some corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, Thousand Island dressing, and rye bread. You can find these ingredients at most supermarkets, and you can assemble the sandwich in just a few minutes.

To make a Reuben at home, simply butter two slices of rye bread, layer on the corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, and top with Thousand Island dressing. Then, grill the sandwich in a pan or skillet until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. You can also use a panini press or grill to make the sandwich.

Are Reubens a healthy food option?

Reubens are not typically considered a healthy food option, as they are high in calories, fat, and sodium. The corned beef and Swiss cheese are high in saturated fat, while the Thousand Island dressing is high in calories and sugar. Additionally, the rye bread can be high in carbohydrates.

However, there are some ways to make a Reuben a healthier option. For example, you can use leaner corned beef or turkey breast, and reduce the amount of cheese and dressing used. You can also use whole grain rye bread and add some vegetables, such as lettuce or tomato, to increase the nutrient density of the sandwich.