Turkey Reuben: A Modern Twist on a Classic Sandwich
Who doesn’t love a good sandwich? They’re versatile, satisfying, and packed with flavor. One classic sandwich that has stood the test of time is the Reuben. Traditionally made with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing, the Reuben has become a staple in delis and diners across the country. But what if we told you there’s a delicious alternative to the traditional Reuben? Enter the Turkey Reuben – a modern twist on a classic favorite.
The Perfect Combination of Flavors
The Turkey Reuben takes all the classic elements of the original sandwich and puts a unique spin on them. Instead of using corned beef, this version features tender, juicy turkey as the star ingredient. The sauerkraut and Swiss cheese are still there, providing that tangy and creamy contrast that we all love. And instead of Russian dressing, a zesty Thousand Island dressing adds a burst of flavor that ties everything together.
But what makes the Turkey Reuben truly special is the way these flavors work together. The smoky, savory turkey pairs perfectly with the tangy sauerkraut, while the melted Swiss cheese adds a rich and creamy element. And when you take a bite of this delicious creation, the Thousand Island dressing brings it all together with a burst of tangy sweetness. It’s a flavor combination that will leave your taste buds dancing.
A Healthier Option
Another great thing about the Turkey Reuben is that it’s a healthier alternative to the original. Turkey is a leaner meat compared to corned beef, making it a better choice for those watching their calorie intake or looking for a lighter option. And when you pair it with whole grain bread, you’re adding an extra dose of fiber and nutrients to your meal.
But don’t let the word “healthy” fool you. The Turkey Reuben is still packed with flavor and satisfaction. It’s a sandwich that proves you don’t have to sacrifice taste for a healthier option.
How to Make the Perfect Turkey Reuben
Making a Turkey Reuben is simple and straightforward. Start by spreading Thousand Island dressing on two slices of whole grain bread. Layer on slices of deli turkey, followed by sauerkraut and Swiss cheese. Top it off with the remaining slice of bread.
Now, it’s time to cook your sandwich. You can either use a panini press or a skillet. If you’re using a panini press, preheat it and then place your sandwich inside, cooking until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. If you’re using a skillet, melt some butter over medium heat and cook the sandwich on both sides until it’s crispy and the cheese is gooey.
Once your sandwich is cooked, slice it in half and serve it hot. The combination of flavors and textures will make every bite a delight.
FAQs
1. Can I make a Turkey Reuben with leftover Thanksgiving turkey?
Absolutely! The Turkey Reuben is a great way to use up leftover turkey from your Thanksgiving feast. Just slice the turkey and follow the same steps for making the sandwich.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Swiss cheese is the traditional choice for a Reuben sandwich, you can certainly experiment with other cheeses. Some popular alternatives include cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for some extra heat.
3. Can I make a vegetarian version of the Turkey Reuben?
Definitely! To make a vegetarian version, simply swap out the turkey for a meatless alternative like sliced tofu or tempeh. You’ll still get all the delicious flavors of a Reuben sandwich without the meat.
4. Can I make a gluten-free Turkey Reuben?
Yes, you can! Just use gluten-free bread instead of whole grain bread and ensure that all the other ingredients you’re using are gluten-free as well.
5. Can I add extra toppings to my Turkey Reuben?
Of course! While the classic Turkey Reuben is delicious on its own, you can always add your favorite toppings to customize it to your taste. Some popular additions include sliced tomatoes, avocado, or even a fried egg.
6. Can I make a Turkey Reuben ahead of time?
If you want to make a Turkey Reuben ahead of time, we recommend assembling the sandwich but not cooking it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply cook it as directed.
7. Can I freeze a Turkey Reuben?
We don’t recommend freezing a fully assembled Turkey Reuben as the ingredients may not hold up well after thawing. However, you can freeze the individual components like sliced turkey, sauerkraut, and cheese, and then assemble the sandwich when you’re ready to eat.
8. Can I make a Turkey Reuben without sauerkraut?
If you’re not a fan of sauerkraut, you can certainly leave it out or substitute it with another type of coleslaw or pickled vegetables. The key is to find a tangy and crunchy element that complements the other flavors in the sandwich.
In Conclusion
The Turkey Reuben is a delightful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich. With its combination of smoky turkey, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Swiss cheese, and zesty Thousand Island dressing, it’s a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Plus, it’s a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on taste. So why not give the Turkey Reuben a try and experience this modern twist on a beloved classic?
Turkey Reuben
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp sliced pickled jalapeños
- 2 tbsp Quick Pickles (see recipe below)
- 1 tbsp Quick Pickle brine
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp granulated garlic
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 to 2 tbsp unsalted butter , at room temperature
- 4 slices marble rye
- 8 oz thinly sliced turkey pastrami or thin deli-sliced cracked pepper turkey
- 1 cup sauerkraut , drained
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- Cooked sweet potato fries , or your favorite fries, for serving
- For Quick Pickles:
- 2 cups white wine or champagne vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard seeds
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 2 cloves garlic , lightly smashed
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 English cucumber , sliced into 1/8-inch-thick rounds
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill
Instructions
- To make the 18,000 Island dressing:
- Roughly chop the pickled jalapeños and Quick Pickles.
- Add the chopped jalapeños and Quick Pickles to a large bowl with the mayonnaise.
- Add ketchup, mustard, granulated garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Stir everything together until well combined.
- Set the dressing aside.
- To make the reubens:
- Preheat a griddle over low heat.
- Butter one side of each piece of bread and place them butter-side down on the griddle.
- Toast the bread until it is browned.
- Meanwhile, place piles of turkey on the griddle to warm.
- Add the sauerkraut in two separate bundles to the same griddle.
- Spoon a generous amount of dressing on top of the sauerkraut.
- Cover each sauerkraut pile with two slices of Swiss cheese.
- Cover the griddle with a lid or large inverted bowl to allow the cheese to melt for about 30 seconds.
- Add the Quick Pickle brine to the griddle and cover it to let the cheese steam and fully melt.
- Place the sauerkraut on top of the turkey.
- Remove the sauerkraut and turkey from the griddle and place
