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 beloved dish worldwide. While it’s often enjoyed on its own, the question remains: what do you eat with a Reuben? The answer lies in exploring a variety of dishes and sides that complement its rich and savory flavors. In this article, we will delve into the world of Reuben pairings, discussing the traditional, the modern, and everything in between.
Introduction to the Reuben Sandwich
Before we dive into what to eat with a Reuben, it’s essential to understand the history and components of this iconic sandwich. The Reuben’s origins are often attributed to Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur, who allegedly created the dish in the early 20th century. However, another claim suggests it was invented by Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-born grocer, in the 1920s. Regardless of its true origin, the Reuben has become a staple in many cuisines, particularly in American and European delis.
The Classic Reuben Components
A traditional Reuben consists of thinly sliced corned beef, which provides a salty, meaty flavor; sauerkraut, adding a tangy, slightly sour taste; melting Swiss cheese, which binds the flavors together; and Thousand Island dressing, contributing a creamy, slightly sweet element. All these ingredients are sandwiched between grilled rye bread, giving the Reuben its distinctive crunch and flavor.
Variations of the Reuben
While the classic Reuben remains popular, many variations have emerged over the years. Some notable versions include the Reuben panini, which uses a press to grill the sandwich; the vegetarian Reuben, substituting the corned beef with portobello mushrooms or eggplant; and the Reuben wrap, where the fillings are wrapped in a tortilla instead of rye bread. These variations offer creativity and flexibility, allowing different palates to enjoy the essence of the Reuben.
Traditional Pairings for the Reuben
When it comes to what to eat with a Reuben, traditional options often revolve around sides that complement its robust flavors.
Sides that Complement the Reuben
Some classic sides include coleslaw, which provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Reuben; pickles, offering a sour and salty complement; and French fries, which add a satisfying crunch. These traditional pairings enhance the dining experience, creating a well-rounded meal.
Desserts for a Balanced Meal
For a sweet conclusion to your meal, desserts like cheesecake or apple strudel can provide a nice contrast to the savory Reuben. These desserts, with their creamy textures and sweet flavors, help balance out the meal, leaving you satisfied but not overwhelmed.
Modern and Innovative Pairings
Beyond traditional sides, the world of modern cuisine offers a plethora of innovative pairings that can elevate the Reuben experience. From soups to salads, and even specific beverages, the options are vast and exciting.
Soups and Salads
A creamy tomato soup or a light vinaigrette salad can serve as excellent companions to the Reuben. The smooth texture and mild flavor of the soup can soothe the palate, while a fresh salad with crisp greens and a zesty dressing can cut through the richness of the sandwich.
Beverages to Pair with the Reuben
In terms of drinks, craft beer and specialty sodas are popular choices. A hoppy IPA can complement the bold flavors of the Reuben, while a ginger ale can cleanse the palate between bites. For a non-alcoholic option, freshly squeezed juices or herbal teas can provide a refreshing accompaniment.
A Closer Look at Beer Pairings
Beer pairing has become an art form, with many breweries offering beers specifically designed to complement certain dishes. For the Reuben, a dark lager or a bock beer can enhance the experience. The malty flavors and smooth finish of these beers can complement the corned beef and sauerkraut, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.
Conclusion
The Reuben sandwich, with its complex and satisfying flavors, is a meal that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer traditional sides like coleslaw and pickles, or you’re adventurous and opt for modern pairings such as specialty beers or salads, the key to enjoying a Reuben lies in finding the perfect balance of flavors. By exploring the various options available, you can elevate your Reuben experience, turning a simple sandwich into a memorable meal. So, the next time you’re pondering what to eat with a Reuben, remember the multitude of possibilities at your fingertips, and don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect match.
In the world of culinary delights, the Reuben stands as a testament to the power of flavor combination and the joy of exploration. As we continue to innovate and push the boundaries of what we eat with a Reuben, one thing remains constant: the enduring appeal of this beloved sandwich, waiting to be paired with your next favorite dish.
What makes a traditional Reuben sandwich, and how can I choose the perfect accompaniments?
A traditional Reuben sandwich consists of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, all grilled between slices of rye bread. The combination of flavors and textures in this dish is what makes it so iconic, and choosing the right accompaniments can elevate the experience even further. When selecting items to eat with a Reuben sandwich, consider the bold flavors and hearty texture of the sandwich itself. You’ll want to choose sides that complement these elements without overpowering them.
Some popular traditional accompaniments to a Reuben sandwich include coleslaw, pickles, and potato salad. These items offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich, and their cool, creamy textures help balance out the warmth and crunch of the grilled bread and fillings. Additionally, consider adding some crunchy snacks like chips or crudités to your meal, as these can provide a satisfying textural contrast to the softness of the sandwich. By selecting a variety of accompaniments that offer different flavors and textures, you can create a well-rounded and enjoyable meal that showcases the Reuben sandwich as the star.
Can I pair a Reuben sandwich with soup, and if so, what types of soup are recommended?
Pairing a Reuben sandwich with soup can be a great way to add some extra comfort and warmth to your meal. When choosing a soup to eat with a Reuben, consider the flavors and ingredients in the sandwich itself. You’ll want to select a soup that complements the bold, savory flavors of the corned beef and sauerkraut without overpowering them. Some good options might include creamy soups like tomato or broccoli, which can provide a soothing contrast to the richness of the sandwich.
Cream-based soups like New England clam chowder or potato soup can also pair well with a Reuben sandwich, as their rich, comforting flavors can help to enhance the overall cozy feeling of the meal. Alternatively, you might consider a lighter, more brothy soup like chicken noodle or vegetable soup, which can provide a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of the sandwich. Whatever soup you choose, be sure to select one that you enjoy and that complements the flavors of the Reuben sandwich, as this will help to create a satisfying and enjoyable meal.
What are some good side dish options to serve with a Reuben sandwich at a party or gathering?
When serving a Reuben sandwich at a party or gathering, you’ll want to choose side dishes that are easy to eat, visually appealing, and complementary to the flavors of the sandwich. Some good options might include potato salad, coleslaw, or baked beans, all of which are classic pairing options for a Reuben. You could also consider serving some crunchy snacks like chips or crudités, which can provide a satisfying textural contrast to the softness of the sandwich.
Additional side dish options might include grilled or roasted vegetables, which can add some extra color and flavor to the table. Consider serving items like grilled bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots, which can provide a light and refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich. You could also offer some fresh fruit or a green salad, which can help to cut the heaviness of the meal and provide a refreshing finish. Whatever side dishes you choose, be sure to select items that are easy to serve and eat, as this will help to create a convenient and enjoyable dining experience for your guests.
How can I incorporate fresh vegetables into my Reuben sandwich meal?
Incorporating fresh vegetables into your Reuben sandwich meal can be a great way to add some extra nutrition and flavor to your dish. One option is to serve a side salad or a plate of raw or roasted vegetables, which can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich. You could also consider adding some grated or sliced vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to your sandwich itself, which can add some extra texture and flavor to the filling.
Another option is to serve a side of sautéed or grilled vegetables, which can provide a tasty and healthy accompaniment to the sandwich. Consider serving items like grilled asparagus, sautéed spinach, or roasted Brussels sprouts, which can add some extra flavor and nutrition to the meal. You could also offer some fresh fruit or a fruit salad, which can provide a light and refreshing finish to the meal. By incorporating fresh vegetables into your Reuben sandwich meal, you can create a more balanced and satisfying dining experience that meets your nutritional needs and tastes great.
Can I pair a Reuben sandwich with beer, and if so, what types of beer are recommended?
Pairing a Reuben sandwich with beer can be a great way to enhance the flavors and enjoyment of the meal. When choosing a beer to drink with a Reuben, consider the bold, savory flavors of the corned beef and sauerkraut. You’ll want to select a beer that can stand up to these flavors without overpowering them. Some good options might include darker, maltier beers like bock or amber ale, which can provide a rich, comforting flavor that complements the sandwich.
Other good options might include hoppier beers like IPA or pale ale, which can provide a bright, refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich. You could also consider serving a lighter, crisper beer like lager or pilsner, which can help to cut the heaviness of the meal and provide a refreshing finish. Whatever beer you choose, be sure to select one that you enjoy and that complements the flavors of the Reuben sandwich, as this will help to create a satisfying and enjoyable dining experience.
What are some good dessert options to serve after a Reuben sandwich meal?
When serving dessert after a Reuben sandwich meal, you’ll want to choose items that are light, refreshing, and complementary to the rich, savory flavors of the sandwich. Some good options might include classic desserts like cheesecake, apple pie, or chocolate cake, which can provide a sweet and satisfying finish to the meal. You could also consider serving some lighter desserts like fruit salad, sorbet, or ice cream, which can help to cut the heaviness of the meal and provide a refreshing contrast.
Additional dessert options might include items like brownies, cookies, or bars, which can provide a sweet and indulgent treat to follow the sandwich. Consider serving items like chocolate-dipped pretzels or caramel apples, which can add some extra flavor and fun to the meal. Whatever dessert you choose, be sure to select items that are easy to serve and eat, and that complement the flavors of the Reuben sandwich. By serving a delicious and satisfying dessert, you can create a well-rounded and enjoyable dining experience that meets your tastes and leaves you feeling full and content.
Are there any regional or cultural variations on the Reuben sandwich that I should try?
Yes, there are several regional and cultural variations on the Reuben sandwich that you might enjoy trying. For example, some restaurants and delis serve a “Rachel” sandwich, which is similar to a Reuben but features pastrami instead of corned beef. You might also come across variations that feature different types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, or that add additional ingredients like grilled onions or bell peppers. Additionally, some cultural variations on the Reuben might feature different types of meat, such as turkey or roast beef, or that serve the sandwich on a different type of bread.
Some regional variations on the Reuben sandwich might include the “Reuben dog,” which features a hot dog topped with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, or the “Irish Reuben,” which features corned beef, sauerkraut, and Irish cheddar cheese on toasted soda bread. You might also come across vegetarian or vegan variations on the Reuben, which feature plant-based ingredients like tofu or tempeh instead of corned beef. By trying these different variations, you can experience the diversity and creativity of the Reuben sandwich and find the version that you enjoy the most.