Reuben Sandwich Origins: Irish or German?

The Reuben sandwich is a beloved North American classic, consisting of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing or Thousand Island dressing, all grilled to perfection. But where did this mouthwatering creation originate? The debate rages on, with two main origin stories vying for the title.

One tale credits Reuben Kulakofsky, a Jewish grocer in Omaha, Nebraska. Legend has it that he requested a sandwich made of corned beef and sauerkraut during his weekly poker game. The kitchen staff at his favorite hotel took it upon themselves to create the iconic Reuben sandwich, and it quickly gained local fame, eventually winning a national sandwich contest. March 14 even became Reuben Sandwich Day in Omaha.

The other narrative points to Arnold Reuben, a German-Jewish deli owner in New York City, as the originator of the Reuben sandwich. Around 1914, Arnold Reuben introduced the “Reuben Special” to his menu. Some versions of the story credit a chef named Alfred Scheuing for creating this delectable combination of ingredients.

So, who truly deserves credit for the creation of this mouthwatering masterpiece? The answer remains elusive, with passionate proponents on both sides of the debate. The Reuben sandwich’s true origins may forever remain shrouded in mystery, but its enduring popularity is undeniable.

Key Takeaways:

• The Reuben sandwich is a North American grilled sandwich made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing or Thousand Island dressing.
• There are two main origin stories for the Reuben sandwich, one crediting Reuben Kulakofsky of Omaha, Nebraska, and the other pointing to Arnold Reuben of New York City.
• Reuben Sandwich Day is celebrated on March 14 in Omaha, Nebraska.
• While the origin of the Reuben sandwich may be debated, its popularity and deliciousness remain undisputed.
• Stay tuned as we explore the fascinating history and cultural influences of this iconic sandwich.

Reuben Sandwich History: The Omaha Claim

One of the origin stories behind the iconic Reuben sandwich takes us to Omaha, Nebraska. According to this account, it all started with Reuben Kulakofsky, a Jewish grocer who had a weekly poker game with his friends. One day, Reuben asked for a sandwich made of corned beef and sauerkraut to be served during their poker game.

The sandwich idea intrigued the hotel’s kitchen staff, including Charles Schimmel, the son of the hotel owner. They decided to give it a try and created the sandwich as requested by Reuben. Little did they know that this simple sandwich would soon gain local fame.

After its creation, the Reuben sandwich was added to the hotel’s lunch menu. It quickly became a favorite among the patrons, showcasing the delicious combination of flavors and textures. The popularity of the sandwich continued to grow, and it eventually won a national sandwich idea contest, solidifying its place in culinary history.

As a way to celebrate its creation and honor its roots, March 14 was officially proclaimed as Reuben Sandwich Day in Omaha. This day pays homage to the sandwich’s origin and recognizes its significant contribution to the city’s culinary heritage.

The story of Reuben Kulakofsky and the Omaha claim to the Reuben sandwich showcases the power of a simple idea that can capture the taste buds and hearts of people across the nation.

Reuben Sandwich History: The New York Claim

While there are varying origin stories surrounding the Reuben sandwich, another popular account points to Arnold Reuben, a German-Jewish deli owner in New York City, as its creator. According to this narrative, Reuben crafted the now-famous “Reuben Special” around 1914.

“Arnold Reuben’s ‘Reuben Special’ with its celebrated combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on rye bread became an instant hit among diners,”

The Reuben sandwich gained further recognition when a waitress at Reuben’s restaurant entered it into a national sandwich contest and emerged victorious. Some versions of the story attribute the creation of the Reuben sandwich to a talented chef named Alfred Scheuing, who is said to have concocted the sandwich specifically for Arnold Reuben’s son.

While debates continue regarding its true origin, the enduring popularity and delicious combination of ingredients have cemented the Reuben sandwich as an iconic part of American cuisine.

Variations of the Reuben Sandwich

The Reuben sandwich is not only a classic, but it also inspires countless variations that cater to different tastes and preferences. Here are a few popular takes on the Reuben sandwich:

Montreal Reuben

The Montreal Reuben is a twist on the traditional Reuben sandwich that swaps out the corned beef for Montreal-style smoked meat. This adds a smoky and savory flavor to the sandwich, giving it a distinctive taste.

Walleye Reuben

For seafood lovers, the Walleye Reuben offers a unique twist. It features walleye, a freshwater fish that is breaded and cooked until crispy. The crispy and delicate texture of the fish pairs well with the sauerkraut and Swiss cheese, creating a delightful combination.

Grouper Reuben

If you prefer a lighter seafood option, the Grouper Reuben is an excellent choice. It substitutes grouper, a mild and flaky fish, for the corned beef. The tender fish is complemented by the tangy sauerkraut and melted Swiss cheese, resulting in a refreshing and delicious sandwich.

Reuben Egg Rolls

For a creative take on the Reuben sandwich, try Reuben egg rolls. These crispy and flavorful bites are filled with all the classic Reuben ingredients, such as corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese. They are perfect for appetizers or as a snack with a twist.

Rachel Sandwich

The Rachel sandwich is a variation of the Reuben sandwich that replaces the corned beef with pastrami or turkey. It also swaps the sauerkraut for coleslaw, adding a refreshing crunch to the sandwich. The Rachel sandwich offers a lighter alternative while still capturing the essence of a Reuben.

These variations showcase the versatility of the Reuben sandwich, allowing people to choose flavors that resonate with their preferences. Whether you prefer a seafood twist or a lighter alternative, these variations provide a delightful spin on the classic Reuben sandwich.

Cultural Influences on the Reuben Sandwich

The Reuben sandwich is not just a delicious combination of flavors; it also embodies the diverse cultural influences that shape American cuisine. From the Jewish delis where it gained popularity to the German roots of its key ingredients, the Reuben sandwich is a true reflection of the melting pot that is the United States. Let’s explore the cultural influences that make the Reuben sandwich so special.

First and foremost, the Reuben sandwich owes its origins to Jewish delis, where it became a staple. These kosher-style delicatessens brought unique flavors and techniques to the American culinary scene. The use of corned beef, a popular ingredient in Jewish cuisine, adds a rich and savory component to the sandwich.

But the cultural influences don’t stop there. The inclusion of sauerkraut, a traditional German ingredient made from fermented cabbage, adds a tangy and slightly sour taste to the Reuben sandwich. Sauerkraut has its roots in Eastern Europe and has been enjoyed for centuries in German and Russian cuisine.

The Reuben sandwich also incorporates Russian dressing or Thousand Island dressing, which adds a creamy and tangy element to the sandwich. Russian dressing is believed to have been inspired by Russian and Eastern European flavors, further highlighting the diverse influences on the Reuben sandwich.

“The Reuben sandwich is a delicious fusion of Jewish, German, and Russian culinary traditions. It represents the rich history and diverse flavors that make up American cuisine.”

Overall, the Reuben sandwich stands as a testament to the multicultural nature of American food. By combining ingredients and flavors from different cultures, the Reuben sandwich has become an iconic dish that celebrates the diverse culinary heritage of the United States.

Next, let’s take a look at the traditional recipe for the Reuben sandwich and how it has evolved over time.

Traditional Recipe for the Reuben Sandwich

The Reuben sandwich is a beloved classic in American cuisine. Its traditional recipe combines the rich flavors of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melty Swiss cheese, and the distinctive taste of Russian dressing or Thousand Island dressing. To create this iconic sandwich, follow these simple steps:

Ingredients:

• Corned beef
• Sauerkraut
• Swiss cheese
• Rye bread
• Russian dressing or Thousand Island dressing

Instructions:

1. Grill or heat the corned beef until it is warm and tender.
2. Layer the corned beef on a slice of rye bread.
3. Top the corned beef with sauerkraut, spreading it evenly.
4. Place a generous amount of Swiss cheese on top of the sauerkraut.
5. Spread Russian dressing or Thousand Island dressing on the inside of another slice of rye bread.
6. Place the dressed bread on top of the cheese to create a sandwich.
7. Grill or press the sandwich until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!

This traditional recipe ensures that each bite of the Reuben sandwich is packed with savory flavors, from the tender corned beef to the tangy sauerkraut and creamy Swiss cheese. The Russian dressing or Thousand Island dressing adds a zesty and slightly sweet element that brings everything together.

Experience the classic taste of the Reuben sandwich by following this traditional recipe. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and is sure to satisfy your cravings for a hearty and flavorful meal.

Kosher Status of the Reuben Sandwich

When considering the kosher status of the Reuben sandwich, it’s important to note that this beloved deli classic is not considered kosher according to Jewish dietary laws. The combination of meat and cheese in the sandwich goes against the kosher principle of not mixing meat and dairy products.

However, for those who adhere to kosher dietary restrictions, there are kosher-style versions of the Reuben sandwich available. These versions are often found in kosher-style delicatessens that cater to Jewish dietary preferences.

Kosher-style Reuben sandwiches often make use of substitutions to comply with kosher guidelines. One common substitution is the use of non-dairy imitation cheese, such as soy or almond-based alternatives, in place of traditional Swiss cheese.

Additionally, the corned beef commonly used in the Reuben sandwich can be substituted with vegetarian corned beef, which is made from plant-based proteins like seitan or tempeh. These substitutions allow kosher-style Reuben sandwiches to retain the flavors and textures that make the original so popular.

It’s also worth noting that some kosher versions of the Reuben sandwich may omit either the meat or the cheese component to adhere more strictly to kosher dietary restrictions. For example, a kosher Reuben sandwich may feature all the traditional ingredients like sauerkraut, Russian dressing, and rye bread, but exclude either the corned beef or the cheese.

Kosher-style Reuben sandwiches provide an opportunity for individuals who observe kosher guidelines to enjoy a modified version of this iconic sandwich, showcasing the adaptability and creativity of Jewish cuisine. While it may not be a classic Reuben in the traditional sense, these kosher-style variations offer a delicious and kosher-friendly option for those with dietary preferences and restrictions.

“Kosher-style Reuben sandwiches provide an opportunity for individuals who observe kosher guidelines to enjoy a modified version of this iconic sandwich, showcasing the adaptability and creativity of Jewish cuisine.”

Reuben Sandwich Popularity and Variations Today

The Reuben sandwich continues to delight and satisfy taste buds across the United States. With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, it has secured a lasting place on menus nationwide. But the culinary evolution of the Reuben doesn’t stop at its traditional recipe. Chefs and food enthusiasts have embraced the challenge of creating innovative variations that breathe new life into this classic sandwich.

One such creative spin is the Reuben egg rolls. These delightful finger foods take all the familiar components of a Reuben sandwich—corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing—and encase them in a crispy, golden-fried wrapper. The result is a mouthwatering fusion of Eastern and Western flavors, delivering the satisfying tang and crunch with a fun twist.

For those seeking a departure from the traditional meat-based Reuben, vegetarian and vegan versions offer delightful alternatives. Zucchini, cucumbers, and mushrooms can be used as hearty substitutes for the corned beef, providing a similar texture and complementing the other ingredients perfectly. Vegetarian Reuben sandwiches are a great choice for those looking to savor this iconic dish while adhering to their dietary preferences.

Furthermore, the Rachel sandwich extends the Reuben’s influence with its unique fillings. This delectable creation swaps pastrami or turkey for the corned beef, offering a different flavor profile while remaining true to the essence of the original sandwich. Coleslaw takes the place of sauerkraut, lending a refreshing crispness that complements the savory elements. The Rachel sandwich is a delightful variation for those who enjoy exploring the boundaries of classic flavors.

Throughout its rich history, the Reuben sandwich has adapted and thrived, embracing a diverse range of ingredients and flavors. From traditional recipes to creative twists, the Reuben continues to captivate and entice eaters of all backgrounds and preferences.

Note: Image above depicts a mouthwatering display of various Reuben sandwich variations.

Conclusion

The origins of the Reuben sandwich may be debated, but its lasting popularity and cultural significance cannot be denied. Whether credited to Reuben Kulakofsky in Omaha or Arnold Reuben in New York City, the Reuben sandwich has become an iconic part of American cuisine. From its humble origins to its varied and creative variations, the Reuben sandwich embodies the diverse culinary traditions that have shaped the United States.

Although the debate over the true origin of the Reuben sandwich continues, it is clear that this beloved sandwich has a rich history and a place in American food culture. Whether you prefer the Omaha claim or the New York claim, the Reuben sandwich remains a classic choice for deli lovers and sandwich enthusiasts alike.

Today, the Reuben sandwich can be found on menus across the United States, showcasing its enduring popularity. From kosher-style versions to creative adaptations, such as the Montreal Reuben or the Rachel sandwich, the Reuben continues to evolve and delight taste buds. It is a testament to the culinary diversity and ingenuity that defines American cuisine.

Source Links

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reuben_sandwich
• https://www.saveur.com/reuben-sandwich-origin-history/
• https://www.inlander.com/food/the-reuben-sandwich-is-an-american-invention-with-many-cultural-connections-heres-where-to-eat-one-in-the-inland-northwest-8684212