A Taste Of Americana: Discover The History And Evolution Of The Reuben Sandwich In American Cuisine

The Reuben sandwich is a classic American sandwich that is enjoyed by people all over the world. But where did it come from? Is it truly an American sandwich, or does it have European roots?

A History of the Reuben Sandwich

The Reuben sandwich is said to have been invented in the early 1900s by a Lithuanian immigrant named Reuben Kulakofsky. Kulakofsky owned a delicatessen in Omaha, Nebraska, and he is credited with creating the sandwich that would eventually bear his name.

The original Reuben sandwich was made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing on rye bread. Kulakofsky’s sandwich was an instant hit, and it soon became a popular menu item at his deli.

In the years that followed, the Reuben sandwich spread beyond Omaha and became a popular dish throughout the United States. Today, it is one of the most popular sandwiches in America.

Is the Reuben Sandwich American or European?

So, is the Reuben sandwich American or European? The answer is… both!

The Reuben sandwich is made with ingredients that are both American and European. The corned beef and Swiss cheese are European ingredients, while the sauerkraut and Thousand Island dressing are American. The rye bread is also a European ingredient, but it is also commonly used in American cuisine.

So, the Reuben sandwich is a truly international sandwich. It is a delicious combination of flavors that has been enjoyed by people all over the world for over a century.

Variations on the Reuben Sandwich

There are many different variations on the Reuben sandwich. Some common variations include:

• The Rachel sandwich: This sandwich is made with turkey instead of corned beef.
• The Monte Cristo sandwich: This sandwich is made with ham and Swiss cheese instead of corned beef and sauerkraut.
• The Cuban sandwich: This sandwich is made with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread.
• The French dip sandwich: This sandwich is made with roast beef, Swiss cheese, and au jus on a French roll.

Where to Find a Great Reuben Sandwich

If you are looking for a great Reuben sandwich, there are a few places you can try.

• Reuben’s Delicatessen in Omaha, Nebraska: This is the original Reuben’s deli, and it is still serving up delicious Reuben sandwiches today.
• Katz’s Delicatessen in New York City: This is another classic deli that is known for its amazing Reuben sandwiches.
• The Carnegie Deli in New York City: This deli is famous for its overstuffed Reuben sandwiches.
• The Stage Deli in Los Angeles: This deli is known for its creative Reuben sandwich variations.

How to Make a Reuben Sandwich at Home

If you want to make a Reuben sandwich at home, here is a recipe you can follow:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound corned beef, thinly sliced
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained
• 1/4 cup Thousand Island dressing
• 4 slices rye bread, toasted

Instructions:

1. Spread Thousand Island dressing on one side of each slice of bread.
2. Layer the corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut on two of the slices of bread.
3. Top with the remaining two slices of bread, dressing side down.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.
6. Serve immediately.

Key Points: Is the Reuben Sandwich American?

The Reuben sandwich is a truly international sandwich that is enjoyed by people all over the world. It is a delicious combination of flavors that is sure to please everyone. So, next time you are looking for a great sandwich, give the Reuben a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: What is the most popular variation of the Reuben sandwich?

A: The Rachel sandwich, which is made with turkey instead of corned beef, is the most popular variation of the Reuben sandwich.

Q: Where can I find a great Reuben sandwich in New York City?

A: Katz’s Delicatessen and The Carnegie Deli are two classic delis in New York City that are known for their amazing Reuben sandwiches.

Q: How can I make a Reuben sandwich at home?

A: To make a Reuben sandwich at home, you will need corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, Thousand Island dressing, and rye bread. Simply spread Thousand Island dressing on one side of each slice of bread, layer the corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut on two of the slices of bread, top with the remaining two slices of bread, dressing side down, and heat in a skillet until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.