The Reuben sandwich, a delicious combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, grilled between slices of rye bread, has been a staple of American cuisine for decades. However, the origins of this beloved sandwich are shrouded in mystery, with several individuals and establishments claiming to be its creator. In this article, we will delve into the history of the Reuben sandwich, exploring its possible origins and the people who may have played a role in its creation.
A Brief History of the Reuben Sandwich
The Reuben sandwich is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, although the exact date and place of its creation are unclear. The sandwich typically consists of:
- Thinly sliced corned beef
- Sauerkraut
- Swiss cheese
- Thousand Island dressing
- Rye bread
These ingredients are grilled together to create a flavorful and satisfying sandwich that has become a favorite among many.
Theories on the Origins of the Reuben Sandwich
There are several theories about the origins of the Reuben sandwich, each with its own set of claims and evidence. Some of the most popular theories include:
The Arnold Reuben Theory
One of the most widely accepted theories is that the Reuben sandwich was created by Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who owned a deli in New York City. According to this theory, Reuben created the sandwich in the 1920s as a way to serve his customers a hearty and flavorful meal.
However, there is some debate about the accuracy of this theory. Some sources claim that Reuben’s deli did not serve a sandwich that matched the modern Reuben, and that the sandwich may have been created by someone else.
The Reuben Kulakofsky Theory
Another theory suggests that the Reuben sandwich was created by Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-American grocer who lived in Omaha, Nebraska. According to this theory, Kulakofsky created the sandwich in the 1920s as part of a weekly poker game he hosted at the Blackstone Hotel.
This theory is supported by the fact that the Blackstone Hotel did serve a sandwich called the “Reuben” in the 1920s, which consisted of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese. However, it is unclear whether this sandwich was the same as the modern Reuben.
The Charles Schimmel Theory
A third theory suggests that the Reuben sandwich was created by Charles Schimmel, a chef at the Blackstone Hotel in Omaha. According to this theory, Schimmel created the sandwich in the 1920s as a way to serve the hotel’s guests a unique and flavorful meal.
This theory is supported by the fact that Schimmel did work at the Blackstone Hotel during the 1920s, and that he was known for his creative culinary skills. However, there is no concrete evidence to support this theory.
The Evolution of the Reuben Sandwich
Regardless of who actually created the Reuben sandwich, it is clear that the sandwich has undergone significant changes over the years. In the early 20th century, the sandwich was typically made with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, but it did not include Thousand Island dressing.
It wasn’t until the 1950s and 1960s, when the Reuben sandwich became a staple of American cuisine, that Thousand Island dressing became a standard ingredient. This addition helped to balance out the flavors of the sandwich and added a creamy texture.
Regional Variations of the Reuben Sandwich
Over time, the Reuben sandwich has evolved to include various regional variations. Some of the most popular variations include:
- The New York-style Reuben, which features pastrami instead of corned beef
- The Omaha-style Reuben, which features a thicker slice of corned beef and a sweeter Thousand Island dressing
- The California-style Reuben, which features avocado and sprouts in addition to the traditional ingredients
These variations reflect the diverse culinary traditions of different regions and demonstrate the adaptability of the Reuben sandwich.
Conclusion
The origins of the Reuben sandwich are complex and multifaceted, with several individuals and establishments claiming to be its creator. While we may never know for certain who actually created the sandwich, it is clear that the Reuben has become a beloved part of American cuisine.
Whether you prefer the classic version or one of the many regional variations, the Reuben sandwich is a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please even the most discerning palate. So next time you bite into a Reuben, remember the rich history and cultural significance behind this tasty sandwich.
Timeline of the Reuben Sandwich
- 1920s: The Reuben sandwich is believed to have originated in the United States, although the exact date and place of its creation are unclear.
- 1920s: Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur, allegedly creates the Reuben sandwich at his deli in New York City.
- 1920s: Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-American grocer, allegedly creates the Reuben sandwich as part of a weekly poker game at the Blackstone Hotel in Omaha.
- 1950s and 1960s: The Reuben sandwich becomes a staple of American cuisine, with Thousand Island dressing becoming a standard ingredient.
- 1970s and 1980s: Regional variations of the Reuben sandwich emerge, including the New York-style Reuben and the Omaha-style Reuben.
Key Players in the History of the Reuben Sandwich
- Arnold Reuben: A German-American restaurateur who allegedly created the Reuben sandwich at his deli in New York City.
- Reuben Kulakofsky: A Lithuanian-American grocer who allegedly created the Reuben sandwich as part of a weekly poker game at the Blackstone Hotel in Omaha.
- Charles Schimmel: A chef at the Blackstone Hotel in Omaha who may have created the Reuben sandwich.
- The Blackstone Hotel: A hotel in Omaha that served a sandwich called the “Reuben” in the 1920s.
Fun Facts About the Reuben Sandwich
- The Reuben sandwich is named after Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-American grocer who allegedly created the sandwich.
- The Reuben sandwich is a popular choice for St. Patrick’s Day, due to its use of corned beef and sauerkraut.
- The Reuben sandwich is often served with a side of coleslaw or potato salad.
- The Reuben sandwich has been featured in numerous films and television shows, including “When Harry Met Sally” and “Seinfeld.”
What is a Reuben sandwich?
A Reuben sandwich is a type of sandwich that typically consists of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing or Russian dressing, grilled between slices of rye bread. The combination of flavors and textures in a Reuben sandwich has made it a popular choice in delis and restaurants around the world.
The ingredients in a Reuben sandwich are carefully chosen to complement each other. The corned beef provides a salty, meaty flavor, while the sauerkraut adds a tangy, slightly sour taste. The Swiss cheese melts and binds the ingredients together, and the Thousand Island or Russian dressing adds a creamy, slightly sweet element to the sandwich.
Who is credited with inventing the Reuben sandwich?
The origin of the Reuben sandwich is often attributed to Arnold Reuben, a German-American restaurateur who owned a deli in New York City in the early 20th century. According to legend, Reuben created the sandwich in the 1920s as a specialty item for his deli, and it quickly became a hit with his customers.
However, some food historians argue that the Reuben sandwich may have been invented by Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-American grocer who lived in Omaha, Nebraska. Kulakofsky allegedly created the sandwich in the 1920s or 1930s, and it was served at a local hotel where he was a regular guest.
What is the difference between a Reuben and a Rachel sandwich?
A Rachel sandwich is a variation of the Reuben sandwich that substitutes pastrami for the corned beef. The Rachel sandwich is often served with the same ingredients as a Reuben, including sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island or Russian dressing, but the use of pastrami gives it a slightly different flavor profile.
While some delis and restaurants use the terms “Reuben” and “Rachel” interchangeably, others make a distinction between the two sandwiches. In general, a Reuben sandwich is made with corned beef, while a Rachel sandwich is made with pastrami.
Can I make a vegetarian version of the Reuben sandwich?
Yes, it is possible to make a vegetarian version of the Reuben sandwich by substituting the corned beef with a plant-based ingredient. Some options for vegetarian Reuben sandwiches include using marinated and grilled portobello mushrooms, sliced eggplant, or grilled tofu.
When making a vegetarian Reuben sandwich, it’s also important to choose a vegetarian-friendly cheese, such as a Swiss-style cheese made from plant-based ingredients. Additionally, be sure to check the ingredients in the Thousand Island or Russian dressing to ensure that it is vegetarian-friendly.
How do I grill a Reuben sandwich?
Grilling a Reuben sandwich is a matter of assembling the ingredients and cooking the sandwich in a pan or griddle until it is crispy and golden brown. To grill a Reuben sandwich, start by buttering two slices of rye bread, then layering the corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island or Russian dressing between the bread slices.
Place the sandwich in a pan or griddle over medium heat and cook until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the other side is also crispy and golden brown. Serve the sandwich hot and enjoy.
Can I make a Reuben sandwich in a panini press?
Yes, it is possible to make a Reuben sandwich in a panini press. In fact, a panini press can be a great way to make a Reuben sandwich, as it allows you to apply even pressure to the sandwich and cook it quickly and evenly.
To make a Reuben sandwich in a panini press, simply assemble the ingredients as you would for a grilled Reuben sandwich, then place the sandwich in the panini press and cook until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted. This should take about 3-5 minutes, depending on the heat and pressure of your panini press.
Is the Reuben sandwich a healthy food option?
The Reuben sandwich is a rich and calorie-dense food option that is best consumed in moderation. The corned beef and Swiss cheese in a Reuben sandwich are high in fat and sodium, while the rye bread and sauerkraut are higher in carbohydrates and fiber.
That being said, it is possible to make a healthier version of the Reuben sandwich by using leaner ingredients, such as low-sodium corned beef and reduced-fat Swiss cheese. You can also try using a whole-grain rye bread and adding some extra vegetables, such as sliced cucumbers or bell peppers, to increase the nutritional value of the sandwich.