The Glory of American Cuisine: The Reuben Sandwich

The History and Magnificent Rise of the Reuben Sandwich

In the pantheon of American cuisine, the Reuben sandwich holds a distinguished place, revered by food enthusiasts and casual eaters alike. This classic sandwich, with its robust flavors and hearty constitution, is a testament to America's rich tradition of culinary creativity and indulgence.

Believed to have originated in the early 20th century, the Reuben sandwich embodies the melting pot that is America. The sandwich is credited to have been created either by Reuben Kulakofsky, a Jewish grocer in Omaha, Nebraska, or by Arnold Reuben, a German-Jewish deli owner in New York City. Whichever origin story you favor, one thing is clear: the Reuben sandwich is a culinary masterpiece.

The Quintessential Reuben Recipe: Bringing the Deli Home

Creating an authentic Reuben sandwich at home is an exercise in marrying distinct flavors and achieving perfect balance. Here’s how you can recreate this American classic in your own kitchen:

Ingredients:

• 8 slices of rye bread
• 1 lb thinly sliced corned beef
• 8 slices of Swiss cheese
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
• 1/2 cup Russian dressing (or Thousand Island dressing as an alternative)
• 2 tbsp butter, softened

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bread: Lay out 8 slices of rye bread. On each slice, spread a generous amount of Russian dressing.
2. Layering: Place a slice of Swiss cheese onto each piece of bread. Then, evenly distribute the corned beef over 4 of those slices. Add a layer of sauerkraut on top of the corned beef.
3. Assemble the Sandwich: Take the remaining 4 bread slices and place them, cheese side down, over the assembled sandwiches.
4. Grilling: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a bit of butter to the pan for each sandwich. Grill each sandwich for about 4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and gooey.
5. Serve: Remove from heat, cut each sandwich in half, and serve hot.

Perfect Pairings: Enhancing Your Reuben Experience

The Reuben sandwich, with its flavorful ingredients, deserves the right accompaniments to elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent pairings:

Beverage:

• Beer: A cold lager or a light IPA complements the richness of the Reuben perfectly.
• Soft Drink: A classic cola or a root beer pairs well if you prefer non-alcoholic beverages.

Sides:

• Pickles: The tartness of a dill pickle spear cuts through the richness of the sandwich.
• Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad offers a textural contrast to the crunchy rye bread.

Condiments:

• Deli Mustard: For those who crave an extra tangy kick.
• Extra Russian Dressing: Because sometimes, you just need a little more.

Where to Experience the Best Reubens in the USA

For those who prefer dining out, America is home to several iconic eateries known for their Reuben sandwiches:

1. Katz's Delicatessen (New York City, NY): An institution in the Lower East Side, Katz's is legendary for its towering, flavor-packed Reubens.
2. Schwartz's Deli (Montreal, QC): For a Canadian twist on the classic, Schwartz’s offers an equally impressive version worth the trip.
3. 11 City Diner (Chicago, IL): A modern take on classic Jewish delis, 11 City Diner in Chicago provides a generous and delicious Reuben experience.

Celebrating an American Classic

The Reuben sandwich is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of American ingenuity, tradition, and the joy of savoring good food. Each bite is a testament to the creativity that fuels the American culinary landscape, uniting diverse ingredients to create something truly special. So, next time you crave a sandwich that embodies the hearty spirit of American cuisine, look no further than the beloved Reuben.

As you enjoy this marvelous creation, whether at home or in one of America’s iconic establishments, take pride in the rich tapestry of flavors that contribute to what makes America truly great. This is the story of the American Reuben—a sandwich steeped in history, tradition, and delectable delight.