Turkey Reuben Sandwich: A Leaner Twist on a Classic Favorite

• The origins of the classic Reuben are contested—some say it was invented by Reuben Kulakofsky in Omaha, Nebraska, while others attribute its creation to New York's Reuben's Delicatessen. Regardless of where it was born, it quickly became a favorite for its punchy blend of flavors and textures.
• The Rachel sandwich is often seen as the Reuben's cousin. Instead of corned beef, it typically features sliced turkey or pastrami, and instead of sauerkraut, it may include coleslaw. The dressing and rye bread remain the same, providing continuity with the original while allowing for a refreshing twist.

Why Choose Turkey?

Turkey is a lean protein, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to reduce saturated fat intake without compromising flavor. It pairs beautifully with creamy Swiss cheese, tangy dressing, and toasted rye bread. Here's why turkey works so well in this context:

1. Mild flavor: It allows the other ingredients—especially the dressing and sauerkraut—to shine.
2. Health benefits: Lower in fat and calories compared to corned beef.
3. Availability: Pre-sliced deli turkey is readily available and easy to prepare.
4. Versatility: Turkey works with both sauerkraut and coleslaw variations.

Ingredients: What You'll Need

To make the perfect turkey Reuben, quality ingredients are key. Here's a breakdown of what you'll need:

Classic Turkey Reuben Ingredients:

1. Rye bread: Go for marble rye or seeded rye for a robust base.
2. Deli turkey breast: Smoked or oven-roasted slices.
3. Swiss cheese Melts beautifully and adds a nutty, creamy flavor.
4. Sauerkraut: Fermented cabbage adds tang and crunch.
5. Russian or Thousand Island dressing: Creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet.
6. Butter or mayo (for grilling): To get that golden, crispy crust.

Optional Add-ins:

• Coleslaw (if using instead of sauerkraut)
• Grainy mustard (for added zing)
• Caraway seeds (for extra rye flavor)

Here’s how to assemble and cook a turkey Reuben that’ll rival any deli offering:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Drain the sauerkraut and pat it dry with paper towels to prevent it from becoming soggy.
• Lay out two slices of rye bread per sandwich.
• Butter one side of each slice, which will face outward when grilling.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich

On the unbuttered side of the bread:

• Spread Russian or Thousand Island dressing.
• Layer with a slice of Swiss cheese.
• Add a generous amount of sliced turkey breast.
• Top with sauerkraut (or coleslaw).
• Add another slice of Swiss cheese (optional for extra meltiness).
• Finish with the second slice of bread, buttered side out.

Step 3: Grill the Sandwich

• Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
• Place the sandwich on the skillet and grill for 3-5 minutes per side, pressing down lightly with a spatula.
• Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

• Remove from heat and let rest for 1 minute.
• Slice diagonally and serve hot with a pickle spear and chips or a side salad.

Variations to Try

The beauty of the turkey Reuben is its flexibility. Here are a few creative spins:

1. Rachel Sandwich

• Use coleslaw instead of sauerkraut.
• Adds creaminess and sweetness.
• Great with toasted challah or sourdough.

2. Spicy Turkey Reuben

• Add jalapeños or spicy mustard.
• Use pepper jack cheese instead of Swiss.

3. Avocado Turkey Reuben

• Add thin slices of avocado before grilling.
• It brings richness and a fresh twist.

4. Open-Faced Reuben

• Toast a single slice of rye.
• Pile on turkey, sauerkraut, cheese, and dressing.
• Broil until bubbly and golden.

5. Keto-Friendly Turkey Reuben

• Use low-carb bread or serve as a Reuben bowl with all the fillings over lettuce or cabbage.

• Making a deli-worthy turkey Reuben at home is easier when you keep these tips in mind:
• Use high-quality rye bread—the flavor and texture matter.
• Dry your sauerkraut. No one wants a soggy sandwich.
• Grill low and slow. This ensures the cheese melts without burning the bread.
• Press the sandwich. A panini press or weighted skillet helps melt everything evenly.
• Customize the dressing. Mix mayo, ketchup, relish, and a bit of horseradish to create your version.

Turkey Reuben for Meal Prep

This sandwich is also meal-prep friendly:

1. Make-ahead tip: Assemble the sandwich, but don’t grill it. Wrap in foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Grill fresh when ready to eat.
2. Freezer-friendly: Wrap pre-made (grilled) sandwiches in foil and freeze. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
3. Lunchbox idea: Pack the fillings separately and assemble them on the go to prevent sogginess.

Serving Suggestions

A turkey Reuben is satisfying on its own, but here are a few tasty sides and drinks to round out the meal:

Sides:

• Dill pickle spears
• Kettle-cooked chips
• Sweet potato fries
• Creamy coleslaw
• Cucumber salad

Drinks:

• Iced tea with lemon
• Sparkling water
• Classic root beer
• Ginger ale

Reuben-Inspired Recipes to Explore

Do you love the flavor combo? Try these inspired dishes:

1. Turkey Reuben Sliders: Mini versions on Hawaiian rolls for parties.
2. Turkey Reuben Wraps: Rolled in a tortilla for a lighter lunch.
3. Reuben Quesadillas: All the fillings in a grilled tortilla.
4. Turkey Reuben Pizza: Use a flatbread base topped with turkey, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and a dressing drizzle.

About One Stop Halal

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