The Reuben sandwich, a masterpiece of culinary delight, has been a favorite among food enthusiasts for decades. ThisCorned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese-filled dish, grilled to perfection between slices of rye bread, is a meal in itself. However, to elevate the dining experience and complement the bold flavors of the Reuben, choosing the right sides is essential. In this article, we will delve into the world of sides that not only complement but enhance the overall gastronomic pleasure of the Reuben sandwich.
Understanding the Reuben’s Flavor Profile
Before we dive into the sides, it’s crucial to understand the complex flavor profile of the Reuben sandwich. The sweetness of the corned beef, the tanginess of the sauerkraut, the creaminess of the Swiss cheese, and the earthiness of the rye bread all combine to create a rich and savory experience. Any side dish chosen should complement these flavors without overpowering them.
The Role of Sides in Enhancing the Meal
Sides play a critical role in balancing the meal. They can add texture, contrast, and additional flavors that complement the Reuben without duplicating its flavors. A well-chosen side can turn a satisfying sandwich into a memorable meal. The key is finding sides that are harmonious yet distinct, offering a refreshing contrast to the richness of the Reuben.
Classic Sides
Classic sides that traditionally pair well with the Reuben include French fries, coleslaw, and potato salad. These sides are easy to make and offer a comforting familiarity that complements the Reuben without overwhelming it. For instance, the crunch of French fries provides a satisfying textural contrast, while coleslaw and potato salad add a cool, refreshing element that cuts through the richness of the sandwich.
Exploring Beyond the Classics
While classic sides are comforting and familiar, exploring beyond these can reveal a world of flavorful possibilities that can elevate the Reuben experience. For those looking to venture out and discover new favorite combinations, here are some intriguing options:
- Soups: A bowl of cream of tomato soup or French onion soup can provide a soothing contrast to the bold flavors of the Reuben. The acidity and slight sweetness in these soups can help cut through the richness of the cheese and meat.
- Salads: Beyond the traditional coleslaw, green salads with light vinaigrettes or fruit salads can offer a refreshing and healthy contrast. These salads can cleanse the palate between bites of the Reuben, allowing for a more nuanced enjoyment of its flavors.
Incorporating Global Inspirations
Global cuisine offers a plethora of sides that can intriguingly complement the Reuben. For example, Asian-style pickles can add a delightful crunch and a burst of umami flavor, while Latin American grilled corn can introduce a smoky sweetness. These global inspirations can broaden the palate and create a unique dining experience.
Creative Twists on Traditional Sides
Sometimes, the best way to enhance the Reuben experience is by putting a creative twist on traditional sides. For instance, sweet potato fries can offer a sweeter and nuttier alternative to regular fries, while a German-style potato salad with bacon and onions can add a smoky depth. These creative twists can keep the meal interesting and engaging.
Pairing Beverages with the Reuben and Its Sides
No meal is complete without the perfect beverage to wash it down. When it comes to the Reuben, coffee, tea, and craft beer are popular choices. Coffee and tea can provide a soothing contrast to the savory flavors of the meal, while craft beer, particularly lagers and pale ales, can complement the bold flavors of the Reuben with their crisp, refreshing taste.
The Art of Pairing
The art of pairing beverages with food is about balance and harmony. A good pairing should enhance the flavors of the meal without overpowering them. For the Reuben, a beverage that can cut through the richness and offer a refreshing contrast is ideal. Experimenting with different pairings can lead to discovering new favorites and elevating the dining experience.
Conclusion on Pairing
In conclusion, pairing the right sides and beverages with the Reuben sandwich is an art that requires consideration of flavors, textures, and contrasts. By understanding the Reuben’s flavor profile and exploring a variety of sides and beverages, one can create a dining experience that is memorable and satisfying. Whether sticking to classics or venturing into new territory, the key is finding harmony and balance that complements the iconic Reuben sandwich.
Final Thoughts on the Reuben Experience
The Reuben sandwich is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that can be enhanced and personalized through the choice of sides and beverages. By embracing the versatility of the Reuben and exploring the wide range of complementary sides and drinks, food enthusiasts can rediscover this classic in new and exciting ways. Whether enjoyed in a cozy diner or prepared at home, the Reuben remains a testament to the power of good food to bring people together and create lasting memories.
What is a traditional Reuben sandwich and what sides are typically served with it?
A traditional Reuben sandwich is a corned beef sandwich that originated in the United States. It typically consists of thinly sliced corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, all grilled between slices of rye bread. The combination of flavors and textures in a Reuben sandwich makes it a popular choice for many people. When it comes to pairing sides with a Reuben sandwich, there are several traditional options that are commonly served.
Some of the most traditional sides to serve with a Reuben sandwich include French fries, coleslaw, and pickles. These sides offer a nice contrast in texture and flavor to the rich, savory flavors of the sandwich. For example, the crunch of French fries or the coolness of coleslaw can help cut the richness of the corned beef and cheese. Additionally, pickles can add a nice tangy flavor that complements the Thousand Island dressing. These traditional sides have been paired with Reuben sandwiches for decades and continue to be popular choices in delis and restaurants today.
What are some non-traditional side dish options that pair well with a Reuben sandwich?
There are many non-traditional side dish options that can pair well with a Reuben sandwich. For example, a side of roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts can provide a nice contrast in flavor and texture to the sandwich. Other options might include a side of roasted potatoes, a green salad, or even a bowl of tomato soup. These sides can offer a refreshing change of pace from the traditional sides that are commonly served with Reuben sandwiches.
When choosing a non-traditional side dish to serve with a Reuben sandwich, consider the flavors and textures that you want to incorporate. For example, if you want to add some freshness and vitality to the dish, a side of roasted vegetables or a green salad might be a good choice. On the other hand, if you want to add some warmth and comfort, a bowl of tomato soup or a side of roasted potatoes might be a better option. Ultimately, the key is to choose a side dish that complements the flavors and textures of the Reuben sandwich without overpowering it.
How can I make my Reuben sandwich sides more interesting and dynamic?
There are many ways to make your Reuben sandwich sides more interesting and dynamic. One approach is to add some creative twists to traditional side dishes. For example, you could try making a coleslaw with red cabbage and carrots instead of the usual green cabbage. Alternatively, you could add some diced onions or bell peppers to your French fries for extra flavor. You could also try making a side of sweet potato fries or curly fries for a change of pace.
Another approach is to draw inspiration from different cuisines and cultures. For example, you could try making a side of German-style braised red cabbage to serve with your Reuben sandwich. Alternatively, you could make a side of Russian-style pickled beets or a Israeli-style salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and tahini dressing. By incorporating different flavors and ingredients from around the world, you can add some excitement and variety to your Reuben sandwich sides.
Can I serve a Reuben sandwich with a side of soup, and if so, what types of soup are best?
Yes, you can definitely serve a Reuben sandwich with a side of soup. In fact, a warm, comforting bowl of soup can be the perfect accompaniment to a Reuben sandwich. Some popular types of soup that pair well with Reuben sandwiches include tomato soup, creamy broths, and hearty stews. These types of soups can help to balance out the richness of the sandwich and add some extra flavor and nutrition to the dish.
When choosing a soup to serve with a Reuben sandwich, consider the flavors and textures that you want to incorporate. For example, a creamy tomato soup can help to complement the savory flavors of the corned beef and cheese, while a hearty stew can add some extra texture and interest to the dish. Some other types of soup that might pair well with a Reuben sandwich include French onion soup, potato soup, or even a creamy spinach soup. Ultimately, the key is to choose a soup that complements the flavors and textures of the sandwich without overpowering it.
What are some good side dish options for a Reuben sandwich if I’m looking for something lighter and healthier?
If you’re looking for a lighter and healthier side dish option to serve with a Reuben sandwich, there are several choices that might be a good fit. One option is a side of mixed greens or a green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing. This can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich and add some extra nutrients to the dish. Another option might be a side of roasted or grilled vegetables, such as asparagus or bell peppers, which can be a tasty and healthy alternative to traditional sides like French fries.
Other lighter and healthier side dish options might include a side of sliced cucumber or carrots, a small serving of fresh fruit, or even a side of edamame or hummus. These types of sides can help to balance out the richness of the sandwich and add some extra flavor and nutrition to the dish. When choosing a lighter and healthier side dish, consider the flavors and textures that you want to incorporate and try to opt for whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible. By making a few simple substitutions and tweaks, you can create a lighter and healthier version of the classic Reuben sandwich and sides.
How can I incorporate some German-inspired flavors and ingredients into my Reuben sandwich sides?
To incorporate some German-inspired flavors and ingredients into your Reuben sandwich sides, consider drawing inspiration from traditional German cuisine. For example, you could try making a side of braised red cabbage with apples and onions, which is a classic German dish. Alternatively, you could make a side of German-style potato salad with diced potatoes, onions, and parsley. You could also try adding some German-inspired seasonings and spices to your sides, such as caraway seeds or mustard.
Another approach is to incorporate some traditional German ingredients into your sides, such as sauerkraut, sausage, or pretzels. For example, you could try making a side of sauerkraut with caraway seeds and apples, or a side of grilled sausage with peppers and onions. You could also try adding some pretzel croutons or pretzel breadcrumbs to your sides for extra texture and flavor. By incorporating some German-inspired flavors and ingredients into your Reuben sandwich sides, you can add some extra authenticity and depth to the dish and pay homage to the sandwich’s German roots.
What are some creative ways to repurpose leftover Reuben sandwich ingredients into new side dishes?
There are many creative ways to repurpose leftover Reuben sandwich ingredients into new side dishes. For example, you could try using leftover corned beef to make a side of corned beef hash with diced potatoes and onions. Alternatively, you could use leftover sauerkraut to make a side of sauerkraut and potato pancakes, or leftover cheese to make a side of cheesy potato gratin. You could also try using leftover Thousand Island dressing as a dip for vegetables or crackers.
Another approach is to think outside the box and come up with entirely new side dishes that incorporate leftover Reuben sandwich ingredients. For example, you could try making a side of Reuben sandwich strata with leftover corned beef, cheese, and sauerkraut, or a side of Reuben sandwich stuffed bell peppers with leftover filling ingredients. By getting creative with leftover ingredients, you can reduce food waste, save time and money, and come up with some truly innovative and delicious side dishes to serve with your Reuben sandwich.