How To Make A Reuben Sandwich Without Corned Beef: A Plant-based Alternative That’s Packed With Flavor

Indulge in the delectable flavors of a classic Reuben sandwich, reimagined without corned beef. This enticing sandwich offers a harmonious blend of savory pastrami, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and a rich dressing, all nestled between two slices of toasted rye bread. Discover the art of crafting this sandwich and tantalize your taste buds with every bite.

Understanding the Reuben Sandwich:

The Reuben sandwich is a culinary delight that has captivated taste buds for decades. Traditionally, it features thinly sliced corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, all stacked between two slices of grilled rye bread. However, this recipe takes a unique twist by replacing corned beef with pastrami, creating a sandwich that is equally satisfying and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients for a Reuben Sandwich Without Corned Beef:

To embark on this culinary journey, gather the following ingredients:

• Pastrami: Thinly sliced, smoky and flavorful, pastrami serves as the star of this sandwich.
• Sauerkraut: Tangy and slightly sour, sauerkraut adds a delightful contrast to the richness of the pastrami.
• Swiss Cheese: Nutty and buttery, Swiss cheese melts perfectly, creating a gooey layer of indulgence.
• Thousand Island Dressing: A creamy and slightly tangy dressing, Thousand Island complements the flavors of the sandwich perfectly.
• Rye Bread: Toasted rye bread provides a sturdy base for this flavor-packed sandwich.
• Butter: Unsalted butter adds a touch of richness to the toasted rye bread.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Toast the Rye Bread:

• Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium heat.
• Spread unsalted butter on one side of each slice of rye bread.
• Place the buttered side down on the preheated griddle.
• Toast until golden brown, approximately 2-3 minutes.
• Flip the bread and toast the other side until golden brown.
• Remove from the griddle and set aside.

2. Prepare the Pastrami:

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the thinly sliced pastrami and cook until heated through, approximately 2-3 minutes.
• Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Drain the Sauerkraut:

• Open the can of sauerkraut and drain the excess liquid.
• Rinse the sauerkraut under cold water and drain again.
• Pat the sauerkraut dry with paper towels to remove any remaining moisture.

4. Assemble the Sandwich:

• Place one slice of toasted rye bread on a plate.
• Layer the pastrami evenly on the bread.
• Top with the drained sauerkraut.
• Add a generous amount of Thousand Island dressing.
• Place a slice of Swiss cheese on top.
• Cover with the remaining slice of toasted rye bread, buttered side up.

5. Grill the Sandwich:

• Heat a panini press or griddle over medium heat.
• Place the assembled sandwich on the preheated panini press or griddle.
• Grill until the cheese is melted and gooey, and the sandwich is golden brown and crispy, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
• Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

• Cut the sandwich in half and serve immediately.
• Accompany with your favorite sides, such as potato chips, coleslaw, or a side salad.

Variations and Substitutions:

1. Vegetarian Reuben Sandwich: Omit the pastrami and add roasted eggplant, portobello mushrooms, or tofu for a meatless version.
2. Spicy Reuben Sandwich: Add a dollop of spicy brown mustard or horseradish sauce for an extra kick.
3. Different Bread Options: Experiment with different types of bread, such as pumpernickel, sourdough, or wheat bread.
4. Cheese Variations: Try different types of cheese, such as cheddar, provolone, or gruyère, to create unique flavor combinations.

Tips for the Perfect Reuben Sandwich:

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality pastrami, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese to elevate the flavor of your sandwich.
2. Toast the Bread Properly: Toasting the bread adds a delightful crunch and helps it hold up better to the sandwich’s fillings.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Sandwich: Keep the layers of your sandwich thin and even to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t become too messy.
4. Serve Immediately: Enjoy your Reuben sandwich while it’s hot and gooey for the best experience.

Final Thoughts:

Reuben sandwiches, traditionally made with corned beef, can be equally delightful when crafted with pastrami. This sandwich offers a tantalizing blend of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Experiment with different variations and substitutions to create your perfect Reuben sandwich. Embrace the culinary adventure and indulge in this delectable dish.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use pre-sliced pastrami for this recipe?

Yes, pre-sliced pastrami can be used for convenience. Ensure it is of good quality and sliced thinly for the best results.

2. What is a good substitute for Thousand Island dressing?

If you don’t have Thousand Island dressing, you can use a mixture of mayonnaise, ketchup, and relish. Alternatively, Russian dressing or French dressing can also be used.

3. How can I make a vegetarian version of this sandwich?

To make a vegetarian Reuben sandwich, replace the pastrami with roasted eggplant, portobello mushrooms, or tofu. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the vegetarian protein is cooked through.