If you're a sandwich enthusiast, then you must have heard about the iconic Reuben Sandwich. This mouth-watering creation is made with thick slices of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing, all stacked atop slices of rye bread. With a weight of 616 grams, the Reuben THE Great sandwich is a hearty meal that promises to satisfy your hunger.
Apart from its irresistible taste, the Reuben THE Great sandwich is also packed with several nutrients. According to USDA, this sandwich provides 799 calories, 36g of protein, and 44g of fat. Its high calorie and fat content make it a perfect choice for people looking for a hearty meal to fuel them through a long day.
In this article, we'll dive deeper into the history, ingredients, nutritional information, health benefits, and variations of Reuben Sandwich. We'll also provide tips on how to make the perfect Reuben sandwich at home and ideas for pairing the sandwich with delicious side dishes.
What is a Reuben THE Great Sandwich?
As mentioned earlier, Reuben Sandwich is a classic American sandwich that is made with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing stacked between two slices of rye bread. The sandwich is then grilled until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy. The Reuben THE Great is an oversized version of this popular sandwich that is perfect for sharing or satisfying a hearty appetite.
History of the Reuben Sandwich
The origins of the Reuben Sandwich are still uncertain, but the most popular story attributes its creation to a New York City delicatessen owner named Reuben Kulakofsky. As the story goes, the sandwich was first served at the Blackstone Hotel in Omaha, Nebraska in the early 1920s. Since then, the sandwich has become a staple of American deli food and a favorite among sandwich lovers worldwide.
Ingredients in the Reuben THE Great
The Reuben THE Great sandwich is made with the same ingredients as the classic Reuben sandwich, but with larger portions. The sandwich usually contains 1 pound of corned beef, 1/2 pound of sauerkraut, 8 slices of Swiss cheese, and 1 cup of Russian dressing. The sandwich is also made with 8 slices of rye bread, which are buttered and grilled until crispy.
A sandwich weighing 616g provides 799 calories, 36g of protein, and 44g of fat. It also contains 2269mg of sodium, which is 99% of the recommended daily intake. Though the Reuben THE Great is not a low-calorie option, it is a great source of energy and a perfect meal for someone looking for a hearty and satisfying lunch.
Health Benefits of the Reuben THE Great
While the Reuben THE Great is not a health food, it does provide several nutrients that are beneficial for your body. The sandwich is an excellent source of protein, which helps to build and repair muscle tissues. It is also rich in vitamin C, which helps to boost your immune system and protect your body from harmful free radicals. However, due to its high calorie and fat content, it is best to enjoy this sandwich in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Reuben Sandwich Variations
While the classic Reuben Sandwich is delicious on its own, there are several variations of this sandwich that you can try. Some popular variations include replacing the corned beef with pastrami, using Thousand Island dressing instead of Russian dressing, or swapping the rye bread for pumpernickel bread. These variations add a unique twist to the classic sandwich and are worth trying if you're a fan of Reuben Sandwich.
Ideal Occasions for the Reuben THE Great
The Reuben THE Great is a perfect meal for several occasions. It is an excellent option for lunch or dinner and is ideal for outdoor picnics, parties, or barbeques. The sandwich is also a great option for a quick and hearty meal when you're on the go. Overall, the Reuben THE Great is a versatile sandwich that can be enjoyed in any situation.
How to Make a Reuben Sandwich at Home
Making a Reuben Sandwich at home is easy and requires minimal ingredients. To make the sandwich, you'll need corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, Russian dressing, rye bread, and butter. Start by buttering the slices of bread and grilling them until they're crispy. Then, layer the corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing between the slices of bread. Grill the sandwich until the cheese is melted and the sandwich is heated through. Serve the sandwich hot and enjoy!
Reuben Sandwich Pairings and Side Dishes
The Reuben Sandwich pairs well with several side dishes, including potato chips, coleslaw, pickles, and fries. You can also try pairing the sandwich with a hearty soup or salad for a complete meal. When it comes to beverages, a cold beer or soda is an excellent choice to wash down the sandwich.
Where to Find the Best Reuben Sandwiches
Finding a great Reuben Sandwich can be a daunting task, especially if you're new to the sandwich scene. However, several delis and restaurants across the United States are famous for their delicious Reuben Sandwiches. Some excellent options include Katz's Delicatessen in New York City, Zingerman's Delicatessen in Ann Arbor, Michigan, or the St. Paul Grill in St. Paul, Minnesota. Alternatively, you can also try making the sandwich at home using our recipe above!
The Reuben Sandwich is a classic American sandwich that is made with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing stacked between two slices of rye bread.
5 FAQ About the Reuben THE Great Sandwich
1. What is the Reuben THE Great Sandwich?
The Reuben THE Great Sandwich is a classic deli sandwich made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing on rye bread. It's a hearty and flavorful sandwich that is popular all over the United States.
2. How many calories are in the Reuben THE Great Sandwich?
The Reuben THE Great Sandwich has 799 calories in one sandwich weighing 616 grams. This is a high amount of calories for a single meal, so it's important to enjoy this sandwich in moderation or as a special treat rather than as a regular part of your diet.
3. What are the nutritional benefits of the Reuben THE Great Sandwich?
The Reuben THE Great Sandwich is high in protein from the corned beef and Swiss cheese, which can help build and repair muscle tissue. However, it is also high in saturated fat and sodium from the meat and dressing, so it's important to balance this sandwich with plenty of vegetables and other nutritious foods.
4. How can I make a healthier version of the Reuben THE Great Sandwich?
To make a healthier version of the Reuben THE Great Sandwich, you can try using a leaner protein such as roasted turkey or chicken instead of corned beef. You can also swap out the Swiss cheese for a lower-fat cheese, and use a lighter dressing or skip it altogether. Additionally, choosing a whole-grain or sourdough bread can add more fiber and nutrients to the sandwich.
5. What are some good side dishes to serve with the Reuben THE Great Sandwich?
The Reuben THE Great Sandwich is often served with classic deli sides such as potato chips or fries. However, you can also pair it with a lighter side like a side salad or some vegetable sticks with hummus. A bowl of soup, such as tomato soup or chicken noodle soup, can also be a tasty and warming addition to the meal.