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Sue’s Sensational Reuben: A Chef’s Ode to the Classic

I remember vividly the first time I tasted a Reuben. It was at a bustling New York deli, the kind with the aroma of cured meats hanging heavy in the air. The sandwich arrived, a monument of toasted rye, oozing cheese, and tangy sauerkraut. One bite, and I was hooked – a symphony of flavors and textures that instantly became a comfort food classic for me. This recipe, affectionately dubbed “Sue’s Reuben,” captures that same magic in a simple, yet satisfying, package.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 7 minutes
Total Time: 12 minutes
Servings: 1
Yield: 1 sandwich
Dietary Type: Not specified

Ingredients

4 ounces lean thinly sliced deli corned beef
2 (1 ounce) slices Swiss cheese
2 slices rye bread
1/3 cup sauerkraut, well drained
1 1/2 – 2 tablespoons Thousand Island dressing (to taste)
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1 pinch crushed juniper berries or 1 pinch caraway seed (optional)

Equipment Needed

Small skillet
Spatula
Plate

Instructions

Begin by allowing the corned beef and Swiss cheese to reach room temperature. This will help them melt evenly and create a more cohesive sandwich.
Gently warm the sauerkraut until it reaches a temperature between 120-140 degrees Fahrenheit. This step helps release its tangy flavor and prevents it from cooling down the rest of the sandwich. You can do this in a small saucepan on the stovetop or even briefly microwave it.
Prepare the sandwich by first buttering one side of each slice of rye bread with 1 tablespoon of the softened butter. Ensure the butter is spread evenly to create a golden-brown crust.
Place one slice of rye bread, butter side down, in the small skillet. This ensures that the buttery side will be toasted to perfection.
Now, begin layering the ingredients. First, add one slice of Swiss cheese to the bread.
Follow with the 4 ounces of corned beef, spreading it evenly over the cheese.
Next, add 1 1/2 to 2 tablespoons of Thousand Island dressing, adjusting the amount to your taste. This adds a creamy tang that complements the other ingredients.
Top with the warmed and well-drained sauerkraut, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
If desired, sprinkle a pinch of crushed juniper berries or caraway seed over the sauerkraut for an added layer of flavor.
Add the final slice of Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut.
Top the sandwich with the remaining slice of rye bread and spread the remaining tablespoon of butter on the outside of the bread.
Heat the sandwich in the skillet over medium-low heat until the bottom side becomes golden brown. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
Flip the sandwich with a spatula and lightly brown the other side, about 3-4 minutes. Press down gently with the spatula to ensure even browning and melting of the cheese.
Remove the Reuben from the skillet and place it on a plate.
Slice the sandwich in half before serving to reveal its delicious layers.
Serve immediately with a dill spear and your favorite chips.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Don’t overcrowd the skillet. If you’re making multiple Reubens, cook them one at a time to ensure even browning.
Use good quality ingredients. The quality of the corned beef, cheese, and bread will significantly impact the final taste.
Press down gently. When cooking the sandwich, gently press down with a spatula to help the cheese melt and the bread brown evenly.
For extra flavor, try adding a thin layer of Dijon mustard under the Thousand Island dressing.
If you don’t have rye bread, pumpernickel or sourdough can also work well.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve Sue’s Reuben immediately while it’s hot and the cheese is melted and gooey. A dill spear and your favorite potato chips are classic accompaniments. Leftovers, though rare, can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To reheat, wrap the sandwich in foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Reheating in a skillet is not recommended, as it can make the bread soggy. The sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, as the bread will lose some of its crispness upon reheating. It is not recommended to freeze this sandwich.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	966.8 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	638 g	66%
Total Fat	70.9 g	109%
Saturated Fat	33.5 g	167%
Cholesterol	230.6 mg	76%
Sodium	2539.1 mg	105%
Total Carbohydrate	40 g	13%
Dietary Fiber	5.3 g	21%
Sugars	7.7 g	30%
Protein	42.3 g	84%

Variations & Substitutions

Vegetarian Reuben: Substitute the corned beef with marinated tempeh or portobello mushrooms.
Gluten-Free Reuben: Use gluten-free rye bread.
Spicy Reuben: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauerkraut or use a spicy Thousand Island dressing.
Rachel Sandwich: Substitute the corned beef with pastrami.
Low-Sodium Reuben: Use low-sodium corned beef and sauerkraut.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere or provolone for a slightly different flavor profile.

Q: Is it important to warm the sauerkraut?
A: Yes, warming the sauerkraut helps to release its flavors and prevents the sandwich from becoming cold in the center.

Q: Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
A: It’s best to assemble and cook the sandwich just before serving to ensure the bread stays crisp and the cheese is melted. You can, however, prepare the sauerkraut and have the ingredients ready to go.

Q: What if I don’t have a skillet?
A: You can also use a panini press or even bake the sandwich in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to the sandwich?
A: Feel free to experiment with additions like sliced pickles, onions, or even a fried egg for a more substantial meal.

Final Thoughts

Sue’s Reuben Sandwich is more than just a quick lunch; it’s a delightful culinary experience that brings together the best of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and substitutions to find your perfect Reuben. Share your creations and feedback – I’d love to hear how you’ve personalized this classic sandwich! Why not pair it with a crisp side salad or a creamy tomato soup for the ultimate comforting meal? Enjoy!

Sue’s Reuben Sandwich Recipe