The Reuben sandwich – a classic combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, all piled high on rye bread. It’s a staple of delis and diners everywhere, but serving it at home can be a bit tricky. What sides should you offer? What drinks pair best with this savory sandwich? And how can you elevate the humble Reuben to a show-stopping centerpiece for your next dinner party?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the world of Reuben sandwiches and explore all the best ways to serve them. From classic combinations to innovative twists, we’ll cover it all.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, you’ll find plenty of inspiration and expert advice to help you take your Reuben game to the next level. So let’s get started and explore the wonderful world of Reuben sandwiches!
🔑 Key Takeaways
- The right sides can make or break a Reuben sandwich – choose wisely to elevate the dining experience
- Certain drinks, like craft beer or creamy milkshakes, pair perfectly with the bold flavors of a Reuben
- Don’t be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to serving Reubens – they can be a great addition to picnics, parties, and more
- Vegetarian side options can add a nice contrast to the richness of a Reuben
- The key to a great Reuben is in the details – from the quality of the ingredients to the presentation
- Experimenting with different types of bread and cheese can add a fun twist to the classic Reuben recipe
- Reubens can be a great base for a casual dinner or a special occasion meal – it’s all about the presentation and accompaniments
Pairing Perfection: Finding the Right Sides for Your Reuben
When it comes to serving a Reuben sandwich, the sides can make all the difference. Chips are a classic choice, but they can be a bit bland – consider upgrading to a more flavorful option like kettle chips or sweet potato fries.
For a more substantial side, consider a green salad or a bowl of creamy tomato soup. The key is to find a balance between the richness of the Reuben and the lightness of the side dish. And don’t be afraid to think outside the box – a side of roasted vegetables or a fruit salad can add a nice pop of color and freshness to the plate.
Drink Pairings: What to Serve with Your Reuben
The right drink can elevate the Reuben experience from good to great. For a classic combination, try pairing your Reuben with a cold glass of milk or a creamy milkshake. The sweetness of the drink helps to balance out the savory flavors of the sandwich.
If you prefer something a bit more adult, a craft beer can be a great choice. Look for a malty, caramel-flavored brew to complement the sweetness of the Thousand Island dressing. And for a non-beer option, consider a glass of dry Riesling or a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.
Fruit and Reubens: A Surprisingly Great Combination
You might not think to serve fruit with a Reuben sandwich, but trust us – it’s a game-changer. A side of sliced apples or grapes can add a nice sweetness and crunch to the plate, while a fruit salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich.
The key is to choose a fruit that complements the flavors of the Reuben without overpowering them. Avoid strong-flavored fruits like pineapple or kiwi, and opt instead for milder options like berries or citrus. And don’t be afraid to get creative – a fruit chutney or compote can add a nice depth of flavor to the sandwich.
The Pickle Factor: Adding a Sour Kick to Your Reuben
A Reuben sandwich isn’t complete without a side of pickles – but what kind of pickles should you choose? Thinly sliced dill pickles are a classic option, but you can also consider more adventurous options like bread and butter pickles or spicy pickle chips.
The key is to find a pickle that complements the flavors of the sandwich without overpowering them. Avoid overly sour or salty pickles, and opt instead for a more balanced option that adds a nice depth of flavor to the plate. And don’t be afraid to get creative – a pickle-based slaw or a side of pickle juice can add a nice tanginess to the dish.
Picnic Perfect: Serving Reubens on the Go
Reubens might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of picnic food, but they can be a great choice for a casual outdoor meal. The key is to choose a side that’s easy to transport and won’t get soggy or messy – consider a side of chips or a green salad, or a more substantial option like a bowl of pasta salad.
And don’t forget to pack plenty of drinks – a cold glass of lemonade or iced tea can be the perfect accompaniment to a Reuben on a warm day. Just be sure to pack everything in a cooler with plenty of ice to keep things fresh and cool.
Mac and Cheese: A Comforting Side Dish for Your Reuben
For a comforting, indulgent side dish, consider serving your Reuben with a side of macaroni and cheese. The creamy pasta can help to balance out the savory flavors of the sandwich, and the comforting familiarity of the dish can make it feel like a home-cooked meal.
Just be sure to choose a mac and cheese that’s not too rich or overpowering – a lighter, more balanced option can help to cut the richness of the Reuben. And consider adding some mix-ins to the mac and cheese, like cooked bacon or diced ham, to add some extra flavor and texture to the dish.
Vegetarian Options: Adding Some Green to Your Reuben Plate
You don’t have to be a meat-lover to enjoy a Reuben sandwich – there are plenty of vegetarian options that can add some nice flavor and texture to the plate. Consider a side of roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or broccoli, or a bowl of creamy hummus with pita chips.
The key is to choose a side that complements the flavors of the Reuben without overpowering them. Avoid overly strong or pungent options, and opt instead for milder flavors that will add a nice depth and complexity to the dish. And don’t be afraid to get creative – a vegetarian Reuben sandwich, made with ingredients like grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted eggplant, can be a great option for a meat-free meal.
Beyond Fries: Alternative Sides for Your Reuben
While French fries are a classic side dish for a Reuben sandwich, they’re not the only option. Consider a side of sweet potato fries, or a more adventurous option like onion rings or fried pickles.
The key is to choose a side that complements the flavors of the Reuben without overpowering them. Avoid overly greasy or heavy options, and opt instead for a lighter, more balanced choice that will add a nice crunch and texture to the plate. And don’t be afraid to get creative – a side of grilled or roasted vegetables, like asparagus or bell peppers, can add a nice pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Soup and Sandwich: A Match Made in Heaven
For a comforting, indulgent meal, consider serving your Reuben with a side of soup. A creamy tomato soup or a hearty bowl of chicken noodle soup can be the perfect accompaniment to a Reuben, and can help to balance out the savory flavors of the sandwich.
Just be sure to choose a soup that’s not too rich or overpowering – a lighter, more balanced option can help to cut the richness of the Reuben. And consider adding some mix-ins to the soup, like cooked bacon or diced ham, to add some extra flavor and texture to the dish.
Casual Dinner Ideas: Serving Reubens at Home
Reubens might be a staple of delis and diners, but they can also be a great choice for a casual dinner at home. The key is to choose a side that’s easy to make and won’t overpower the flavors of the sandwich – consider a side of chips or a green salad, or a more substantial option like a bowl of pasta salad.
And don’t forget to add some nice touches to the table, like a vase of fresh flowers or a bottle of wine. A Reuben sandwich can be a great base for a casual dinner, and with the right sides and accompaniments, it can be a truly special meal.
Party Perfect: Serving Reubens to a Crowd
Reubens might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of party food, but they can be a great choice for a casual gathering. The key is to choose a side that’s easy to make in large quantities and won’t get soggy or messy – consider a side of chips or a green salad, or a more substantial option like a bowl of pasta salad.
And don’t forget to add some nice touches to the table, like a vase of fresh flowers or a bottle of wine. A Reuben sandwich can be a great base for a party meal, and with the right sides and accompaniments, it can be a truly special and memorable occasion.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to keep my Reuben sandwiches warm at a picnic?
One of the best ways to keep your Reuben sandwiches warm at a picnic is to use a thermally insulated bag or container. You can also consider using a chafing dish or a warming tray to keep the sandwiches at a consistent temperature.
Just be sure to pack plenty of ice packs or cold compresses to keep the sandwiches cool and fresh, and consider using a vacuum-insulated thermos to keep drinks hot or cold.
Can I make Reuben sandwiches ahead of time and store them in the fridge?
Yes, you can make Reuben sandwiches ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just be sure to assemble the sandwiches just before serving, and consider using a high-quality, presliced meat to ensure the best flavor and texture.
You can also consider making the components of the sandwich ahead of time, like the corned beef or the sauerkraut, and assembling the sandwich just before serving.
What’s the best type of cheese to use in a Reuben sandwich?
The best type of cheese to use in a Reuben sandwich is a matter of personal preference, but some popular options include Swiss, cheddar, and provolone. You can also consider using a combination of cheeses, like a blend of Swiss and cheddar, to add a nice depth and complexity to the sandwich.
Can I use a panini press to make Reuben sandwiches?
Yes, you can use a panini press to make Reuben sandwiches. In fact, a panini press can be a great way to add a nice crunch and texture to the bread, and to melt the cheese to perfection.
Just be sure to adjust the settings on the press to ensure the best results, and consider using a high-quality bread that can hold up to the pressure and heat of the press.
What’s the best way to slice the corned beef for a Reuben sandwich?
The best way to slice the corned beef for a Reuben sandwich is to use a sharp knife and slice the meat against the grain. This will help to ensure the best texture and flavor, and will make it easier to assemble the sandwich.
You can also consider using a meat slicer to get thin, even slices of corned beef, and consider slicing the meat just before assembling the sandwich to ensure the best flavor and texture.