The Reuben sandwich, a classic combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, has been a staple of delis and diners for decades. However, one question has long been debated among food enthusiasts: is a Reuben sandwich served hot or cold? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the Reuben, explore its traditional preparation methods, and examine the arguments for both hot and cold service.
A Brief History of the Reuben Sandwich
The origins of the Reuben sandwich are shrouded in mystery, with several restaurants and chefs claiming to have created the dish. One story behind the Reuben’s creation dates back to the 1920s, when Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur, allegedly served a sandwich made with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese to a group of hungry gamblers at his New York City deli. Another theory suggests that the Reuben was invented by Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-born grocer from Omaha, Nebraska, who created the sandwich as part of a weekly poker game menu.
Regardless of its true origins, the Reuben sandwich gained popularity in the mid-20th century, becoming a staple of Jewish delis and diners across the United States.
Traditional Preparation Methods
Traditionally, a Reuben sandwich is prepared by grilling or toasting the bread, typically rye, and filling it with a generous portion of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing. The key to a great Reuben lies in the balance of flavors and textures, with the tangy sauerkraut and creamy dressing complementing the rich corned beef and melted cheese.
The Case for Serving Reubens Hot
Proponents of serving Reubens hot argue that the warmth of the sandwich enhances the flavors and textures of the ingredients. When grilled or toasted, the bread becomes crispy and golden, providing a satisfying crunch that gives way to the tender corned beef and melted cheese. The heat also helps to melt the cheese, binding the ingredients together and creating a gooey, indulgent treat.
Furthermore, serving Reubens hot allows for the use of a panini press or grill, which can help to compress the sandwich and create a crispy, caramelized crust on the bread. This texture adds depth and complexity to the sandwich, making it a more satisfying and filling meal.
The Case for Serving Reubens Cold
On the other hand, some argue that serving Reubens cold allows the flavors of the ingredients to shine through. When served chilled, the corned beef and sauerkraut retain their texture and flavor, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese and dressing. Additionally, serving Reubens cold eliminates the risk of the cheese becoming too melted or the bread becoming too crispy, resulting in a more balanced and refined flavor profile.
Cold Reubens also offer a convenient and easy-to-serve option for delis and diners, as they can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Regional Variations and Creative Twists
While traditional Reubens are typically served hot, regional variations and creative twists have led to the development of cold Reuben sandwiches. For example, some delis in the Northeastern United States serve a “Reuben salad,” which features the same ingredients as a traditional Reuben, but served chilled and tossed in a vinaigrette dressing.
Other creative twists on the Reuben include using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, or adding additional ingredients like grilled onions or bell peppers. Some restaurants even offer a “Reuben wrap,” which features the same ingredients as a traditional Reuben, but served in a tortilla wrap instead of on rye bread.
Reuben Sandwich Variations from Around the World
The Reuben sandwich has gained popularity worldwide, with various countries and regions putting their own spin on the classic dish. Here are a few examples:
- Cuban Reuben: This variation features ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed between crispy bread.
- Korean Reuben: This version features marinated bulgogi beef, kimchi, and spicy Gouda cheese, all served on a crispy baguette.
- Veggie Reuben: This vegetarian take on the classic features grilled portobello mushrooms, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, all served on rye bread.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the question of whether a Reuben sandwich is served hot or cold is a matter of personal preference. While traditional Reubens are typically served hot, regional variations and creative twists have led to the development of cold Reuben sandwiches. Ultimately, the key to a great Reuben lies in the balance of flavors and textures, regardless of whether it’s served hot or cold.
Whether you’re a traditionalist who prefers your Reuben hot and grilled, or a rebel who likes it cold and chilled, there’s no denying the enduring appeal of this classic sandwich. So go ahead, try a Reuben today – and decide for yourself whether it’s best served hot or cold.
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 or Russian dressing, grilled between slices of rye bread. The ingredients are carefully selected to provide a balance of flavors and textures, with the corned beef and sauerkraut offering a savory and slightly sour taste, while the Swiss cheese adds creaminess and the dressing provides a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
The Reuben sandwich is often associated with Jewish deli cuisine, and its origins are attributed to Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who allegedly created the sandwich in the early 20th century. However, some sources also credit Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-American grocer, with inventing the sandwich in the 1920s. Regardless of its true origins, the Reuben sandwich has become a beloved classic in American cuisine.
Is a Reuben sandwich served hot or cold?
A traditional Reuben sandwich is typically served hot, with the corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese grilled between slices of rye bread until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted. This helps to bring out the flavors of the ingredients and creates a crispy texture on the outside, while keeping the inside warm and gooey. Serving the Reuben hot also helps to balance the flavors, as the heat from the grilled bread and cheese helps to melt the dressing and sauerkraut, creating a harmonious and savory taste experience.
However, some variations of the Reuben sandwich may be served cold, with the ingredients layered between slices of bread without grilling. This can be a refreshing twist on the classic recipe, especially during the summer months or for those who prefer a lighter version of the sandwich. Nevertheless, the traditional and most popular way to serve a Reuben sandwich is hot, and it is often served as a comfort food or a satisfying meal.
What type of cheese is typically used in a Reuben sandwich?
Swiss cheese is the most commonly used cheese in a Reuben sandwich, and it is often sliced thinly to provide a creamy and melted texture. The nutty flavor of Swiss cheese complements the savory taste of the corned beef and sauerkraut, while its creaminess helps to balance the tanginess of the dressing. Some variations of the Reuben sandwich may use other types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, but Swiss cheese remains the most traditional and popular choice.
The use of Swiss cheese in a Reuben sandwich is also a nod to the sandwich’s Jewish deli heritage, as Swiss cheese was a popular ingredient in many Jewish delis during the early 20th century. The cheese is often melted to perfection, creating a golden-brown crust on the outside of the sandwich that adds to its appeal and flavor.
Can I customize my Reuben sandwich with different ingredients?
While the traditional Reuben sandwich recipe is a classic, there is no reason why you cannot customize it to suit your tastes. Some popular variations of the Reuben sandwich include using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, or adding other ingredients like sliced turkey or roast beef. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as whole wheat or sourdough, or add some spice with mustard or hot sauce.
However, it is worth noting that some variations of the Reuben sandwich may stray too far from the original recipe, and the result may not be as satisfying or flavorful. When customizing your Reuben sandwich, it is best to start with the traditional ingredients and make small changes to see how they affect the overall flavor and texture. This will help you to create a unique and delicious variation of the Reuben sandwich that still honors its heritage.
Is a Reuben sandwich a healthy option?
A traditional Reuben sandwich is not typically considered a healthy option, as it is high in calories, fat, and sodium. The corned beef and cheese are high in saturated fat, while the sauerkraut and dressing are high in sodium. Additionally, the rye bread is often high in carbohydrates and calories. However, it is possible to make a healthier version of the Reuben sandwich by using leaner ingredients, such as turkey or roast beef, and reducing the amount of cheese and dressing used.
To make a healthier Reuben sandwich, you can also consider using whole wheat bread or a lower-calorie alternative, and adding some vegetables like lettuce or tomato to increase the nutrient content. Additionally, you can grill the sandwich using a non-stick pan or a grill with a small amount of oil to reduce the fat content. By making a few simple changes, you can enjoy a healthier and more balanced version of the Reuben sandwich.
Can I make a vegetarian version of the Reuben sandwich?
While the traditional Reuben sandwich recipe includes corned beef, it is possible to make a vegetarian version by substituting the beef with a plant-based ingredient. Some popular options include using sliced portobello mushrooms, grilled eggplant, or sautéed spinach. You can also use a vegetarian corned beef alternative, such as seitan or tempeh, to mimic the texture and flavor of the traditional recipe.
When making a vegetarian Reuben sandwich, it is essential to choose ingredients that provide a similar texture and flavor to the corned beef. You can also experiment with different types of cheese and dressing to find a combination that works well with the vegetarian ingredients. Additionally, consider adding some extra vegetables like lettuce or tomato to increase the nutrient content and flavor of the sandwich.
How do I store leftover Reuben sandwiches?
If you have leftover Reuben sandwiches, it is best to store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. You can wrap the sandwiches individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a sealed container or zip-top bag. When storing leftover Reuben sandwiches, it is essential to keep them away from strong-smelling foods, as the sauerkraut and cheese can absorb odors easily.
To reheat leftover Reuben sandwiches, you can grill them in a pan or oven until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted. Alternatively, you can microwave the sandwiches for a few seconds until they are warm and the cheese is melted. However, be careful not to overheat the sandwiches, as this can cause the cheese to become dry and the bread to become soggy.