Are you a fan of delicious sandwiches but worry about the calorie count? Well, we have good news — a Reuben sandwich only contains 680 calories. But what's the history behind this beloved deli classic?

The Reuben sandwich, made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on rye bread, is believed to have originated in the early 20th century. There's some debate over who exactly created it, but most attribute the invention to Arnold Reuben, the owner of New York's now-closed Reuben's Restaurant.

In this article, we'll explore the origins of the Reuben, where to find the best ones, how to make your own at home, and more.

The History and Origins of the Reuben

As stated earlier, the Reuben sandwich is a classic sandwich that has been enjoyed for over a century. The origin of the Reuben is a topic of debate among food historians, but one thing is for certain: it is an American invention. There are a few different stories about how the Reuben came to be. One popular tale is that it was created by Arnold Reuben, the proprietor of Reuben's Delicatessen in New York City. Another story states that the sandwich was first made by a group of poker players in Omaha, Nebraska. Despite the ambiguous history, fans of the Reuben know that its combination of flavors is something special. Whether you want to know more about the history of this beloved sandwich or just love trivia, the story of the Reuben is a fascinating one.

The Best Places to Find Authentic Reuben Sandwiches

If you're looking for a delicious Reuben sandwich but don't know where to start, fear not. There are plenty of places across the world where you can find an authentic Reuben. In New York City, Katz's Deli is a popular spot that's been serving up Reubens for decades. In Omaha, Nebraska, Reuben's Restaurant is a must-try for fans of the sandwich. And in Los Angeles, Langer's Deli is known for their pastrami Reuben. However, the popularity of the Reuben sandwich means that you can likely find a great one at a deli or sandwich shop near you. When it comes to finding an authentic Reuben, the key is to look for delis or sandwich shops that use high-quality ingredients and take care to prepare the sandwich properly.

How to Make Your Own Reuben at Home

If you're feeling adventurous, you can also try making your own Reuben at home. While it may seem intimidating, the process is actually quite simple. To make a Reuben sandwich, you'll need corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, Russian dressing, and rye bread. First, heat up the corned beef in a pan or in the oven until it's hot. Then, toast the rye bread and spread the Russian dressing on both sides. Add the corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut on top, and then grill the sandwich on a pan or press until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy. While it may take a bit of practice to get the perfect Reuben sandwich, making your own can be a fun and rewarding experience.

Tips for Customizing Your Reuben Sandwich

While the classic Reuben sandwich is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it to your liking. Here are a few ideas: - Swap out the corned beef for pastrami or turkey for a different flavor profile. - Use coleslaw instead of sauerkraut for a tangy twist. - Add extra toppings, like avocado, bacon, or pickles, for a more indulgent sandwich. - Use a different type of bread, like pumpernickel or sourdough, for a unique texture and flavor. Don't be afraid to experiment and find your perfect Reuben sandwich combination!

The Health Benefits (and Risks) of Eating Reuben Sandwiches

While Reuben sandwiches are undeniably delicious, they're not exactly the healthiest food out there. Here are some of the health benefits and risks to keep in mind when indulging in this classic sandwich. - Health benefits: Corned beef is a good source of protein and B vitamins, and sauerkraut is rich in probiotics and vitamin C. Rye bread also contains more fiber than white bread, which can aid in digestion. - Health risks: Reuben sandwiches can be high in calories, fat, sodium, and cholesterol, which can increase your risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and other health issues. As with any food, moderation is key. Enjoy your Reuben sandwich, but be mindful of the nutritional content and balance it with other healthy choices throughout the day.

Vegan and Vegetarian Reuben Alternatives

If you're a vegan or vegetarian, you don't have to miss out on the deliciousness of a Reuben sandwich. There are plenty of alternatives that use plant-based ingredients to recreate the flavors of the classic sandwich. - For the corned beef, try using seitan or tempeh. - Use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast in place of Swiss cheese. - Swap sauerkraut for fermented veggies like kimchi or pickles. - Use vegan Russian dressing or make your own using vegan mayo and ketchup. With a bit of creativity and substitution, you can enjoy a Reuben sandwich that's just as tasty as the original.

Creative Twists on the Classic Reuben Sandwich

If you're a fan of the classic Reuben sandwich and want to mix things up, there are plenty of creative variations to try. - Reuben egg rolls: Fill egg roll wrappers with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, and fry until crispy. - Reuben soup: Blend together corned beef, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, and serve with toasted rye bread croutons. - Reuben salad: Top a bed of greens with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing. The possibilities are endless when it comes to putting a unique twist on the classic Reuben sandwich.

Pairing Your Reuben Sandwich with the Perfect Beverage

When it comes to choosing a beverage to pair with your Reuben sandwich, there are plenty of options that can complement the flavors of the sandwich. - Beer: A cold, refreshing beer like an IPA or pilsner can balance out the richness of the sandwich. - Wine: A dry red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir can stand up to the strong flavors of the Reuben. - Soda: A classic soda like root beer or cream soda can bring out the sweetness in the Russian dressing. - Water: When all else fails, a simple glass of water can cleanse your palate and refresh your taste buds. Experiment with different beverages to find the perfect pairing for your Reuben sandwich.

Reuben Sandwiches as Deli Party Platters

If you're hosting a party or event and want to serve a crowd-pleasing dish, a Reuben sandwich platter could be the answer. To create a Reuben sandwich platter, simply make several sandwiches on a large tray or platter. Cut the sandwiches into smaller pieces, and add toothpicks for easy serving. You can also add sides like chips, pickles, or coleslaw to round out the meal. A Reuben sandwich platter is a delicious and easy way to feed a group of hungry guests.

Reuben-Inspired Snacks and Appetizers

If you're a fan of Reuben sandwiches but want to switch things up, there are plenty of snacks and appetizers that incorporate the flavors of the classic sandwich. - Reuben dip: Combine corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing in a baking dish, and bake until bubbly. Serve with toasted bread or crackers. - Reuben quesadilla: Fill a tortilla with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, and cook until crispy. - Reuben potato skins: Fill potato skins with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, and bake until crispy. These tasty snacks and appetizers are a fun and creative way to enjoy the flavors of the Reuben sandwich.