Pastrami Vs Ruben: The Final Choice

In the realm of deli sandwiches, two titans stand tall: pastrami and reuben. Both boasting their own unique flavors and devoted fan base, these culinary masterpieces have sparked a friendly rivalry that has captivated taste buds for generations. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the depths of pastrami vs. reuben, exploring their origins, ingredients, preparation methods, and ultimate taste showdown to determine which sandwich reigns supreme.

Origins and History

Pastrami: Pastrami traces its roots to Romania, where it was originally made with lamb or mutton. Jewish immigrants brought the recipe to the United States in the late 19th century, where it was adapted using beef brisket. The meat is brined, seasoned with a blend of spices, and then smoked, resulting in a tender, flavorful cut with a slightly peppery kick.

Reuben: The reuben sandwich was born in the 1920s at Reuben’s Delicatessen in New York City. It is said that a customer named Reuben Kulakofsky requested a sandwich made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on rye bread. The combination proved to be a hit, and the reuben quickly became a deli staple.

Ingredients

Pastrami:

• Smoked beef brisket
• Brine (water, salt, sugar, spices)
• Seasoning blend (coriander, garlic, pepper, paprika)

Reuben:

• Corned beef
• Swiss cheese
• Sauerkraut
• Russian dressing
• Rye bread

Preparation

Pastrami:

• The beef brisket is brined for several days to extract moisture and enhance flavor.
• After brining, the brisket is seasoned with a dry rub and smoked for several hours.
• The smoked brisket is then sliced thin and served on rye bread.

Reuben:

• Corned beef is cooked in a brine solution until tender.
• Rye bread is toasted and spread with Russian dressing.
• Swiss cheese is placed on one slice of bread, followed by the corned beef and sauerkraut.
• The sandwich is topped with the other slice of bread and grilled until golden brown.

Taste Showdown

Pastrami:

• Tender and flavorful with a slightly smoky taste
• Peppery and savory with a hint of spice
• Pairs well with mustard or horseradish

Reuben:

• Tangy and savory with a combination of flavors
• Salty corned beef complemented by creamy Swiss cheese and tangy sauerkraut
• Russian dressing adds a touch of richness

Which Sandwich Reigns Supreme?

Ultimately, the question of pastrami vs. reuben is a matter of personal preference. Both sandwiches offer their own unique culinary delights. Pastrami lovers appreciate its bold, peppery flavor and tender texture, while reuben enthusiasts relish the harmonious blend of tangy, salty, and creamy flavors.

The Perfect Pairing

Pastrami:

• Pairs well with potato salad, coleslaw, or pickles
• Can be enjoyed with a glass of rye whiskey or lager

Reuben:

• Pairs well with potato chips, onion rings, or coleslaw
• Can be enjoyed with a glass of dark beer or a glass of red wine

Conclusion

Whether you’re a staunch pastrami purist or a reuben devotee, there’s no denying the allure of these iconic deli sandwiches. Their distinct flavors, textures, and historical significance have made them beloved by food lovers around the world. So, the next time you’re craving a savory and satisfying meal, consider indulging in the culinary showdown of pastrami vs. reuben and let your taste buds decide which sandwich reigns supreme.

FAQ

1. What is the difference between pastrami and corned beef?

Pastrami is made with beef brisket that is brined, seasoned, and smoked, while corned beef is made with beef brisket that is cured in a salt brine.

2. What is Russian dressing made of?

Russian dressing is a mayonnaise-based dressing that typically includes ketchup, relish, horseradish, onion, and paprika.

3. What is the best type of bread for a pastrami or reuben sandwich?

Rye bread is the traditional choice for both pastrami and reuben sandwiches.