Reuben Vs New Yorker: Which One Is Better For You?
What To Know
- Eig wanted to create a sandwich that would surpass the popularity of the Reuben, and he succeeded with the New Yorker.
- The Reuben sandwich is typically grilled or pan-fried, which gives the bread a crispy exterior while melting the cheese and heating the other ingredients.
- The New Yorker sandwich is synonymous with New York City, where it is a popular choice at delis and sandwich shops.
The Reuben and the New Yorker are two iconic sandwiches that have captivated taste buds for decades. Both sandwiches share a common heritage, but they have evolved into distinct culinary entities, each with its unique flavor profile and loyal following. In this blog post, we will delve into the depths of the Reuben vs. New Yorker debate, exploring their origins, ingredients, preparation methods, and the passionate opinions surrounding these culinary masterpieces.
Origins
Reuben: The origins of the Reuben sandwich are shrouded in mystery, with several competing claims. One popular theory attributes its creation to Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian immigrant who owned a delicatessen in Omaha, Nebraska. According to legend, Kulakofsky invented the sandwich in 1925 for a customer who requested a hot corned beef sandwich with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing.
New Yorker: The New Yorker sandwich has a more straightforward origin story. It was created in the 1930s by Sam Eig, the owner of the Stage Delicatessen in New York City. Eig wanted to create a sandwich that would surpass the popularity of the Reuben, and he succeeded with the New Yorker.
Ingredients
Reuben: The classic Reuben sandwich consists of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, Thousand Island dressing, and rye bread.
New Yorker: The New Yorker sandwich is similar to the Reuben, but it uses pastrami instead of corned beef and coleslaw instead of sauerkraut. It is also served on rye bread.
Preparation Methods
Reuben: The Reuben sandwich is typically grilled or pan-fried, which gives the bread a crispy exterior while melting the cheese and heating the other ingredients.
New Yorker: The New Yorker sandwich is usually served cold, with the pastrami, coleslaw, and Russian dressing layered between the slices of rye bread.
Flavor Profiles
Reuben: The Reuben sandwich is a symphony of flavors, with the salty corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Swiss cheese, and sweet Thousand Island dressing creating a harmonious balance. The grilled bread adds a satisfying crunch to the overall experience.
New Yorker: The New Yorker sandwich has a bolder flavor profile, with the savory pastrami, tangy coleslaw, and spicy Russian dressing dominating the palate. The cold temperature keeps the ingredients fresh and allows the flavors to shine through.
Regional Variations
Reuben: The Reuben sandwich is a staple of Midwestern cuisine, particularly in Nebraska and Iowa. However, it has gained popularity throughout the United States and can be found on menus in many restaurants and delis.
New Yorker: The New Yorker sandwich is synonymous with New York City, where it is a popular choice at delis and sandwich shops. It has also spread to other parts of the country, but it remains closely associated with its birthplace.
The Great Debate
The debate over which sandwich is superior, the Reuben or the New Yorker, has raged for decades. Reuben enthusiasts praise its classic combination of flavors and grilled perfection, while New Yorker loyalists argue that the pastrami and coleslaw create a more dynamic and satisfying experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two culinary icons comes down to personal preference.
Which Sandwich Should You Choose?
If you prefer a salty, tangy, and well-balanced sandwich with a crispy exterior, the Reuben is the way to go. If you crave a bolder, colder, and spicier sandwich with a refreshing crunch, the New Yorker is your best bet.
The Ultimate Sandwich Showdown: A Culinary Journey
The Reuben vs. New Yorker debate is a testament to the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the United States. Both sandwiches have their own unique strengths and appeal, and they continue to delight sandwich lovers across the country. Whether you prefer the classic Reuben or the bold New Yorker, there is no doubt that these sandwiches are culinary masterpieces that deserve their place in the pantheon of American food.
Frequently Discussed Topics
1. What is the difference between corned beef and pastrami?
Corned beef is made from brisket that has been cured in a brine solution, while pastrami is made from brisket that has been cured in a dry rub of spices and then smoked.
2. What is Thousand Island dressing made of?
Thousand Island dressing is a mayonnaise-based dressing that typically contains ketchup, relish, onions, pickles, and spices.
3. What is Russian dressing made of?
Russian dressing is a mayonnaise-based dressing that typically contains ketchup, horseradish, onions, and spices.
4. Which sandwich is more popular, the Reuben or the New Yorker?
The Reuben is generally considered to be more popular than the New Yorker, but both sandwiches have their loyal fans.
5. Can I make a Reuben or New Yorker sandwich at home?
Yes, both sandwiches are relatively easy to make at home. You can find recipes for both sandwiches online or in cookbooks.
