The Perfect Cheese For A Reuben Sandwich

The Reuben sandwich is a classic American sandwich that features corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, Russian dressing, and rye bread. The sandwich is grilled until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted. While the sandwich can be enjoyed hot or cold, it is typically served hot, with the meat heated and the cheese melted. The tangy dressing penetrates the sauerkraut, creating a delicious and irresistible combination.

Swiss cheese is the classic choice

Swiss cheese is generally used for a Reuben sandwich because of its mild flavour. The mildness of Swiss cheese pairs perfectly with the other bold flavours in the sandwich, such as the tangy sauerkraut and the corned beef. The creaminess of the cheese also adds a nice textural contrast to the crunchiness of the rye bread and sauerkraut.

When making a Reuben sandwich, it is important to drain the sauerkraut well to prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy. The corned beef can be sliced thinly or thickly, depending on your preference. If you want to toast the bread evenly on both sides, a panini press can be used. Alternatively, you can toast one side of the bread first and then grill the sandwich in a skillet to get a slightly steamed and tender interior.

Reuben sandwiches are typically served hot, but they can also be enjoyed cold. They are often served with potato chips, dill pickles, or French fries on the side.

Mozzarella or provolone are mild alternatives

The Reuben is a grilled sandwich that features corned beef, cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing on rye bread. It's a staple in Jewish-style delicatessens, but it's not kosher because it combines meat and cheese.

Mozzarella and provolone are both mild-tasting cheeses that can be used as substitutes for Swiss cheese in a Reuben sandwich. They will melt similarly to Swiss cheese, creating a gooey texture and adding a creamy flavour to the sandwich.

When making a Reuben sandwich with mozzarella or provolone, it's important to follow similar steps to the traditional recipe. Start by spreading the dressing on one side of each slice of bread. Then, layer the corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese on one slice of bread. Finally, top it with the remaining slice of bread, butter the outside of the sandwich, and grill it until both sides are golden brown.

Using mozzarella or provolone in a Reuben sandwich can be a great option for those who prefer a milder flavour or are looking for a slightly different take on this classic sandwich.

Drain the sauerkraut to avoid a soggy sandwich

A Reuben sandwich is a delicious, satisfying, and filling meal, but it's important to ensure that your sandwich isn't soggy. To avoid this, be sure to drain the sauerkraut before assembling your sandwich.

Sauerkraut is a key ingredient in a Reuben sandwich, adding a tangy, vinegary crunch that perfectly complements the corned beef's bold flavor. However, if not properly drained, it can make your sandwich soggy. By draining the sauerkraut and giving it a good squeeze to remove any excess liquid, you can prevent this from happening.

The process of draining sauerkraut is simple and only takes a few minutes. First, open the jar or container of sauerkraut and pour the contents into a colander or sieve. Allow the liquid to drain, then use your hands or a spoon to gently press the sauerkraut, removing any remaining liquid. Once it's drained, you can add it to your sandwich with confidence, knowing that your Reuben will maintain its ideal texture.

Additionally, you can also heat the sauerkraut before adding it to your sandwich. This step not only reduces the risk of a soggy sandwich but also deepens the flavor of the sauerkraut. Simply melt some butter in a small saucepan and add the drained sauerkraut, cooking it until any excess liquid has cooked off and it becomes heated through and glossy. This extra step ensures that your Reuben sandwich is not only dry but also packed with flavor.

Russian dressing is traditional

Russian dressing is a key component of the Reuben sandwich. It adds a tangy and zesty flavour to the sandwich, complementing the other ingredients. The dressing is typically spread on both slices of bread, creating a flavourful base for the other toppings. The Russian dressing also helps to tie all the ingredients together, enhancing the overall taste experience.

While Thousand Island dressing is sometimes used as a substitute, Russian dressing is the traditional choice. It has a sharper and tangier taste compared to the sweeter Thousand Island dressing. This slightly spicier taste of Russian dressing gives the Reuben sandwich its signature kick.

The Reuben sandwich is a beloved classic, and Russian dressing is an essential part of its appeal. The combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, Russian dressing, and rye bread creates a unique and mouthwatering flavour profile. By grilling the sandwich, the flavours meld together, resulting in a warm, crispy, and irresistible treat.

Preparing a Reuben sandwich at home is a straightforward process. Start by spreading Russian dressing on rye bread. Then, layer corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut. Finally, grill the sandwich until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. The result is a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed hot or cold.

Thousand Island is a sweeter alternative

A Reuben sandwich is a grilled sandwich that is a menu staple in Jewish-style delicatessens. It is made with corned beef, cheese, and sauerkraut on rye bread. The sandwich is slathered with either Russian dressing or Thousand Island dressing.

While Russian dressing is the traditional choice, Thousand Island dressing is a popular alternative. Thousand Island is a sweeter option that is still tangy and pairs well with the saltiness of the corned beef and the sourness of the sauerkraut. The dressing is made with mayonnaise, chili garlic sauce, lemon juice, creamy horseradish, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, onion, paprika, salt, and pepper.

To make a Reuben sandwich, you'll need to spread the dressing on the bread, add corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese, and grill the sandwich until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.

Some tips for making a Reuben sandwich include:

• Draining the sauerkraut well to prevent a soggy sandwich.
• Using a panini press or a griddle to cook the sandwich.
• Toasting the bread on only one side to create a slightly steamed and tender interior.

So, if you're looking for a sweeter alternative to the traditional Reuben sandwich, using Thousand Island dressing is a great option!

Frequently asked questions