Kale Reuben

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Are you tired of the same old sandwiches for lunch? Looking to add a healthy twist to your meal without compromising on taste?

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Kale Reuben
Servings
0

Method

  1. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat.

  2. Add the garlic and cook, turning occasionally, until lightly browned, approximately 2 minutes.

  3. Gradually add the kale to the saucepan, stirring often and allowing each addition to wilt before adding more.

  4. Pour in ½ cup of water and increase the heat to medium-high, bringing it to a simmer.

  5. Cook the kale, tossing occasionally, until it is tender and the pan is dry (add more water if needed), about 5 minutes.

  6. Transfer the cooked kale to a medium bowl and remove the garlic if desired.

  7. Mix in the sauerkraut, yogurt, and hot sauce, and season with salt.

  8. Clean the skillet.

  9. Take 2 slices of bread and divide the kale mixture between them.

  10. Place both types of cheese on top of the kale mixture.

  11. Cover the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices and spread 1 Tbsp. of butter on the top slices.

  12. Heat the skillet over medium-low heat.

  13. Put the sandwiches in the skillet with the buttered side down and gently press them with a pan lid.

  14. Spread butter on the top sides of the sandwiches and cook, turning them once, until they are golden brown, crisp, and the cheese is melted (about 4 minutes per side).

  15. Transfer the sandwiches to a cutting board and cut them in half before serving

About this recipe

Kale Reuben: A Twist on a Classic Sandwich

Introduction

Are you tired of the same old sandwiches for lunch? Looking to add a healthy twist to your meal without compromising on taste? Look no further than the Kale Reuben! This unique take on the classic Reuben sandwich combines the bold flavors of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing with the nutritional goodness of kale. In this article, we will explore the history of the Reuben sandwich, the health benefits of kale, and how to make a delicious Kale Reuben at home.

The Reuben Sandwich: A Brief History

The Reuben sandwich has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. Legend has it that the sandwich was first created in Omaha, Nebraska by a local grocer named Reuben Kulakofsky. It quickly gained popularity and became a staple in delis and diners across the United States.

The traditional Reuben sandwich is made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing, all sandwiched between slices of rye bread. It is typically grilled or toasted to perfection, giving it a satisfying crunch and melding the flavors together.

The Nutritional Powerhouse: Kale

Kale, often hailed as a superfood, is a leafy green vegetable that is packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It is a member of the cruciferous vegetable family, which also includes broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts.

One of the main benefits of kale is its high concentration of antioxidants, which help protect the body against cellular damage and inflammation. It is also an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and beta-carotene. Additionally, kale is rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes a healthy gut.

The Kale Reuben: A Healthier Twist

By replacing the traditional bread with kale, you can enjoy all the flavors of a Reuben sandwich while adding an extra nutritional boost to your meal. Kale provides a satisfying crunch and acts as a nutrient-dense base for the sandwich.

When preparing a Kale Reuben, start by blanching the kale leaves to soften them slightly. This will make them more pliable and easier to work with. Next, layer on thinly sliced corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese. Finally, drizzle on some Thousand Island dressing to tie all the flavors together.

Conclusion

The Kale Reuben is a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic sandwich. By swapping out the bread for kale, you can enjoy all the flavors of a Reuben while adding an extra dose of vitamins and minerals to your meal. Give it a try and discover a new favorite lunch option!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use other types of kale for the Kale Reuben?

Absolutely! While curly kale is the most commonly used variety, you can experiment with other types such as Lacinato (also known as dinosaur kale) or Red Russian kale.

Is the Thousand Island dressing necessary?

The Thousand Island dressing adds a tangy and creamy element to the sandwich, but you can substitute it with a lighter dressing, such as a lemon vinaigrette, if desired.

Can I make a vegetarian version of the Kale Reuben?

Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the corned beef and using a plant-based alternative, such as tempeh or grilled portobello mushrooms.

Can I make a gluten-free version of the Kale Reuben?

Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free bread or opt for a breadless version by using large kale leaves as a wrap.

How long does it take to blanch the kale?

Blanching kale takes just a few minutes. Simply bring a pot of water to a boil, submerge the kale leaves for about 2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.

Can I add other toppings to the Kale Reuben?

Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Some popular additions include sliced avocado, tomato, or pickles.

Can I prepare the Kale Reuben in advance?

While it's best to assemble the Kale Reuben just before serving to maintain the crispness of the kale, you can prepare the individual components in advance and store them separately.

Are there any other variations of the Kale Reuben?

Yes, you can customize the Kale Reuben to suit your taste preferences. For example, you can add spicy mustard or swap out the Swiss cheese for a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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