Cuban Sandwich Vs Reuben: A Detailed Review

The culinary world is a vast and ever-evolving landscape, with countless dishes competing for our taste buds’ attention. Among these culinary heavyweights, two titans stand tall: the Cuban sandwich and the Reuben. Both sandwiches boast a loyal following and a rich history, making their rivalry a fascinating culinary debate. In this blog post, we will delve into the heart of this epicurean duel, examining the key differences, similarities, and unique charms of the Cuban sandwich and the Reuben.

Origins and History: A Tale of Two Cultures

The Cuban sandwich, also known as the “Cubano,” has its roots in the vibrant streets of Havana, Cuba. It is believed to have originated in the early 1900s, when Cuban immigrants working in Tampa, Florida, sought to recreate a taste of home. The Reuben, on the other hand, has a more enigmatic origin story. Some claim it was invented in Omaha, Nebraska, in the 1920s by a grocer named Reuben Kulakofsky, while others attribute its creation to a New York City delicatessen owner named Arnold Reuben.

The Bread and Butter: A Foundation of Flavor

The bread used in a Cuban sandwich is typically Cuban bread, a slightly sweet and airy loaf with a crisp crust. This bread provides a sturdy base for the sandwich’s substantial fillings. The Reuben, in contrast, utilizes rye bread, which is dense, slightly sour, and has a distinctive caraway seed flavor. This bread’s hearty texture complements the sandwich’s rich ingredients.

The Meats: A Symphony of Savory

The Cuban sandwich is characterized by its combination of roasted pork, ham, and Swiss cheese. The roasted pork is typically seasoned with a blend of spices, including cumin, oregano, and garlic. The ham adds a salty and smoky flavor, while the Swiss cheese provides a creamy and nutty richness. The Reuben, on the other hand, features corned beef and Swiss cheese as its meaty components. Corned beef is a salt-cured beef brisket that is typically boiled or steamed before being sliced for the sandwich. Its salty and slightly tangy flavor pairs well with the Swiss cheese’s mildness.

The Condiments: A Splash of Zest

The Cuban sandwich typically includes a simple yet flavorful spread of yellow mustard and pickle slices. The mustard adds a tangy kick, while the pickles provide a crunchy and refreshing contrast to the other ingredients. The Reuben, on the other hand, relies on a more complex condiment combination known as Thousand Island dressing. This dressing is a mayonnaise-based sauce that typically includes ketchup, relish, and various spices. Its creamy and slightly sweet flavor complements the sandwich’s other ingredients.

The Assembly: A Culinary Masterpiece

The Cuban sandwich is assembled by layering the fillings between two slices of Cuban bread. The sandwich is then pressed in a panini press or griddle, which melts the cheese and creates a crispy exterior. The Reuben is also assembled in layers, with the rye bread slices serving as the foundation. However, instead of being pressed, the Reuben is typically grilled on a griddle, allowing the bread to become toasted and the cheese to melt.

Taste and Texture: A Symphony of Sensations

The Cuban sandwich offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The roasted pork and ham provide a savory base, while the Swiss cheese adds a creamy richness. The mustard and pickles contribute tangy and refreshing notes, while the crispy bread provides a satisfying crunch. The Reuben, on the other hand, delivers a more robust and complex flavor profile. The corned beef’s saltiness and tanginess are balanced by the Swiss cheese’s mildness and the Thousand Island dressing‘s creamy sweetness. The toasted rye bread adds a slightly sour and nutty flavor, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite.

In a nutshell: A Culinary Conundrum

The Cuban sandwich and the Reuben are both iconic sandwiches that have earned their place in the culinary pantheon. While they share some similarities, such as the use of Swiss cheese and a toasted bread exterior, their distinct ingredients and flavors make them unique and unforgettable experiences. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference. Those who crave a savory and refreshing sandwich will likely gravitate towards the Cuban sandwich, while those who prefer a more complex and robust flavor profile will find solace in the Reuben.

What You Need to Know

Q: Which sandwich has more calories?
A: The Reuben typically has more calories due to its higher fat content from the corned beef and Thousand Island dressing.

Q: Which sandwich is more popular?
A: Both sandwiches are popular, but the Cuban sandwich is more commonly found in Florida and other areas with a large Cuban population. The Reuben is more widespread throughout the United States.

Q: Can I make a Cuban sandwich or Reuben at home?
A: Yes, both sandwiches can be made at home with the right ingredients and a panini press or griddle.