The Reuben sandwich, a classic combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, grilled to perfection between slices of rye bread, is a beloved dish worldwide. However, the true essence of enjoying a Reuben sandwich lies not just in the sandwich itself, but in the accompaniments that elevate its flavors and textures. In this article, we will delve into the world of sides that complement the Reuben sandwich, enhancing the dining experience and making each bite a memorable one.
Understanding the Reuben Sandwich
Before we explore the various sides that go well with Reuben sandwiches, it’s essential to understand the core components of this iconic dish. The Reuben sandwich typically consists of:
– Corned beef: Thinly sliced, this is the protein that gives the sandwich its heartiness.
– Sauerkraut: Finely shredded fermented cabbage that adds a tangy, slightly sour taste.
– Swiss cheese: Melted to perfection, it binds the flavors together.
– Thousand Island dressing: Adding a creamy, slightly sweet element to balance the savory and tangy notes.
– Rye bread: Grilled or toasted, it provides the base and holds all the ingredients together.
The Importance of Balance
When choosing sides for a Reuben sandwich, balance is key. The sandwich itself is rich and filling, with a mix of savory, sweet, sour, and umami flavors. Therefore, sides should complement these flavors without overpowering them. Ideally, a side dish should offer a contrasting texture or flavor profile to create a well-rounded meal.
Contrasting Textures
Sides that offer crunchy, soft, or fresh textures can provide a pleasing contrast to the crispy bread and soft fillings of the Reuben sandwich. For example, a simple green salad with fresh vegetables and a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the sandwich.
Complementary Flavors
Flavor-wise, sides that are lightly seasoned or have a mild flavor profile can complement the Reuben without competing with its bold flavors. For instance, a bowl of classic chicken soup can offer a soothing contrast, with its gentle, warming flavors that won’t overpower the sandwich.
Popular Side Options
Several side dishes have become staples when serving Reuben sandwiches, thanks to their ability to complement the sandwich’s complex flavor profile. Here are a few notable options:
- Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad with diced potatoes, mayonnaise, and herbs can offer a satisfying side that complements the heaviness of the sandwich.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and a hint of vinegar can provide a cool contrast to the warm, savory sandwich.
- French Fries: For those who prefer a more indulgent option, French fries can offer a satisfying crunch. They can be seasoned to enhance their flavor without overpowering the sandwich.
- Pickles: Thinly sliced dill pickles can add a tangy, salty flavor that cuts through the richness of the Reuben, with a satisfying crunch.
Exploring Global Inspirations
While traditional sides are delicious, exploring global cuisines can also yield some exciting and unexpected combinations. For example, Korean kimchi can add a spicy, sour kick that surprisingly complements the Reuben’s flavors, while German braised red cabbage can offer a sweet and slightly sour contrast that resonates with the sandwich’s European roots.
Innovative Combinations
For the adventurous, creating innovative combinations can be a fun and rewarding experience. Consider pairing the Reuben with grilled asparagus for a refreshing spring twist, or with roasted beet salad for a sweet and earthy contrast. These combinations not only offer something new but also cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences.
Conclusion
The Reuben sandwich, with its complex blend of flavors and textures, offers a versatile canvas for exploring various side dishes. Whether you prefer traditional options like coleslaw and potato salad, or you’re in the mood for something more adventurous like kimchi or roasted beet salad, the key to finding the perfect side is balance and complementarity. By understanding the core components of the Reuben and the principles of contrasting textures and complementary flavors, you can elevate your dining experience and discover new favorite combinations. So, the next time you’re enjoying a Reuben sandwich, don’t be afraid to experiment and find the sides that make your meal truly unforgettable.
What are the classic side dishes that complement Reuben sandwiches?
The classic side dishes that complement Reuben sandwiches are often those that provide a nice contrast in texture and flavor. For example, a crisp and refreshing side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette dressing can provide a nice contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the Reuben sandwich. Additionally, a side of tangy and crunchy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and vinegar can also help to balance out the flavors of the sandwich. Other classic side dishes that go well with Reuben sandwiches include baked beans, potato salad, and pickles.
These classic side dishes are popular for a reason – they have been tried and tested over time and are known to pair well with the bold flavors of the Reuben sandwich. The key is to find a side dish that complements the flavors of the sandwich without overpowering it. By choosing a side dish that provides a nice contrast in texture and flavor, you can create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that will leave you feeling full and content. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting, there’s a classic side dish out there that’s sure to pair perfectly with your Reuben sandwich.
Can I serve Reuben sandwiches with soups, and if so, which ones are recommended?
Serving Reuben sandwiches with soups can be a great way to add some variety and depth to your meal. There are several types of soups that pair well with Reuben sandwiches, including creamy soups like tomato soup or broccoli cheddar soup. These soups can help to balance out the bold flavors of the sandwich, while also providing a comforting and satisfying element to the meal. Other soups that pair well with Reuben sandwiches include French onion soup, creamy mushroom soup, and butternut squash soup. The key is to choose a soup that complements the flavors of the sandwich without overpowering it.
When serving Reuben sandwiches with soups, it’s a good idea to consider the flavor profile of the sandwich and choose a soup that complements it. For example, if you’re using a particularly strong or pungent type of cheese in your Reuben sandwich, you may want to choose a soup that’s a bit more subtle in flavor. On the other hand, if you’re using a milder cheese, you may be able to get away with a bolder or more flavorful soup. Ultimately, the choice of soup will depend on your personal preferences and the specific ingredients you’re using in your Reuben sandwich. By experimenting with different soups and flavor combinations, you can find the perfect pairing to suit your taste.
How do I choose the perfect side of fries to go with my Reuben sandwich?
Choosing the perfect side of fries to go with your Reuben sandwich can be a bit overwhelming, given the many different types of fries that are available. However, there are a few things you can consider to help narrow down your options. First, think about the type of potatoes you prefer – do you like them thick and chunky, or thin and crispy? You should also consider the seasoning or toppings you like on your fries – do you prefer them plain, or loaded with cheese, bacon, or chives? Finally, think about the flavor profile of your Reuben sandwich and choose a type of fry that complements it. For example, if you’re using a strong or pungent cheese, you may want to choose a more subtle type of fry.
Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start to explore the different types of fries that are available. Some popular options include thin and crispy fries, thick and chunky fries, curly fries, and sweet potato fries. You can also consider adding toppings or seasonings to your fries to give them an extra boost of flavor. Some popular toppings include cheese, bacon, chives, and chili. By choosing a type of fry that complements the flavors of your Reuben sandwich, you can create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and traditional or new and adventurous, there’s a type of fry out there that’s sure to pair perfectly with your Reuben sandwich.
Are there any vegetarian or vegan side dish options that pair well with Reuben sandwiches?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan side dish options that pair well with Reuben sandwiches. Some popular options include roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or asparagus, which can provide a nice contrast in texture and flavor to the rich and savory flavors of the sandwich. Other options include grilled or sautéed portobello mushrooms, which can add a meaty and satisfying element to the meal. You can also consider serving a side of vegetarian or vegan coleslaw, made with shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and vinegar, or a side of pickles, which can add a tangy and crunchy element to the meal.
In addition to these options, there are many other vegetarian and vegan side dishes that can pair well with Reuben sandwiches. Some other ideas include serving a side of quinoa or brown rice, which can provide a nutritious and filling element to the meal. You can also consider serving a side of steamed or roasted sweet potatoes, which can add a sweet and comforting element to the meal. Whatever option you choose, be sure to consider the flavor profile of your Reuben sandwich and choose a side dish that complements it. By experimenting with different vegetarian and vegan side dishes, you can find a combination that works well for you and provides a satisfying and enjoyable meal.
Can I serve Reuben sandwiches with fruit or dessert, and if so, which options are recommended?
While Reuben sandwiches are often associated with savory and umami flavors, they can also be paired with sweet and fruity flavors to create a interesting and unexpected combination. Some popular options for serving Reuben sandwiches with fruit or dessert include pairing them with a side of fresh fruit, such as apples or grapes, which can provide a nice contrast in texture and flavor to the rich and savory flavors of the sandwich. You can also consider serving a side of cheese cake or other sweet desserts, which can add a rich and indulgent element to the meal. Other options include serving a side of chocolate-dipped strawberries or other sweet treats, which can provide a sweet and satisfying finish to the meal.
When serving Reuben sandwiches with fruit or dessert, it’s a good idea to consider the flavor profile of the sandwich and choose a sweet or fruity option that complements it. For example, if you’re using a strong or pungent cheese in your Reuben sandwich, you may want to choose a sweeter or more indulgent dessert to balance out the flavors. On the other hand, if you’re using a milder cheese, you may be able to get away with a lighter or more refreshing dessert. Ultimately, the choice of fruit or dessert will depend on your personal preferences and the specific ingredients you’re using in your Reuben sandwich. By experimenting with different sweet and fruity options, you can find a combination that works well for you and provides a satisfying and enjoyable meal.
How do I choose the perfect side of potato salad to go with my Reuben sandwich?
Choosing the perfect side of potato salad to go with your Reuben sandwich can be a bit overwhelming, given the many different types of potato salad that are available. However, there are a few things you can consider to help narrow down your options. First, think about the type of potatoes you prefer – do you like them diced, sliced, or chunky? You should also consider the flavor profile of your Reuben sandwich and choose a type of potato salad that complements it. For example, if you’re using a strong or pungent cheese, you may want to choose a more subtle type of potato salad. On the other hand, if you’re using a milder cheese, you may be able to get away with a bolder or more flavorful potato salad.
Once you’ve considered these factors, you can start to explore the different types of potato salad that are available. Some popular options include classic potato salad made with diced potatoes, mayonnaise, and mustard, as well as more adventurous options like roasted potato salad or grilled potato salad. You can also consider adding toppings or mix-ins to your potato salad to give it an extra boost of flavor. Some popular options include diced onions, chopped hard-boiled eggs, and pickle relish. By choosing a type of potato salad that complements the flavors of your Reuben sandwich, you can create a well-rounded and satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and traditional or new and adventurous, there’s a type of potato salad out there that’s sure to pair perfectly with your Reuben sandwich.
Are there any side dishes that can help to balance out the richness of Reuben sandwiches?
Yes, there are several side dishes that can help to balance out the richness of Reuben sandwiches. Some popular options include serving a side of mixed greens or other leafy vegetables, which can provide a light and refreshing contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the sandwich. Other options include serving a side of pickled or fermented vegetables, such as sauerkraut or kimchi, which can add a tangy and sour element to the meal. You can also consider serving a side of citrus or vinegar-based dishes, such as a citrus salad or a vinegar-based coleslaw, which can help to cut through the richness of the sandwich.
In addition to these options, there are many other side dishes that can help to balance out the richness of Reuben sandwiches. Some other ideas include serving a side of grilled or roasted vegetables, which can add a smoky and savory element to the meal. You can also consider serving a side of whole grains, such as brown rice or quinoa, which can provide a nutritious and filling element to the meal. Whatever option you choose, be sure to consider the flavor profile of your Reuben sandwich and choose a side dish that complements it. By experimenting with different side dishes and flavor combinations, you can find a combination that works well for you and provides a satisfying and enjoyable meal.