Air-Fryer Reuben: A Tasty, Toasty Treat

Yes, you can make a Reuben sandwich in an air fryer! This cooking method will give you a crispy exterior and a soft, warm interior with melted cheese. It's also a quick and easy way to make this classic sandwich.

How to layer the ingredients

To layer the ingredients for a Reuben sandwich in an air fryer, start by spreading butter or olive oil on one side of each slice of bread. You can also use melted butter or mayonnaise. Then, follow these steps:

• Spread Russian dressing or Thousand Island dressing on the slices of bread. If you're using store-bought dressing, Ken's Steakhouse and Kraft are good options.
• Add corned beef to the slices of bread with dressing.
• Layer on the sauerkraut.
• Add another slice of bread, with the dressing side down.
• Spread more Russian or Thousand Island dressing on top of the second slice of bread.
• Add a slice or two of Swiss cheese. You can also use other meltable cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or Havarti.
• Place the final slice of bread on top, with the buttered side up.
• Secure the sandwich with toothpicks or skewers to keep it together during cooking.

You can also add a slice of cheese between the first slice of bread and the dressing to create an extra gooey sandwich.

The best type of bread to use

The type of bread you use for your Reuben sandwich can make or break the entire experience. While the classic choice is rye bread, there are several alternatives that can work just as well, if not better. Here are some options to consider:

Rye Bread

Rye bread is the traditional choice for a Reuben sandwich, and for good reason. It has a slightly sour taste that complements the other flavours in the sandwich. Look for a thick, heavy rye bread, such as marbled rye, which will hold up to the weight of the other ingredients. The toasted rye adds a nice crunch, and the caraway seeds give it a slightly earthy flavour.

Sourdough

If you want to switch things up, sourdough bread is a great alternative. It has a more subtle taste than rye, but it's still a substantial bread that can hold up to the weight of the sandwich.

Pumpernickel

Pumpernickel bread is another good option for a Reuben. It has a similar flavour profile to rye, with a slightly sour taste, and it will also add a bit of extra colour to your sandwich.

Whole Wheat

For a healthier option, you could try using whole wheat bread. It will give your sandwich a nuttier flavour and is a good source of fibre. Just make sure to choose a thick slice that can support the weight of the other ingredients.

Gluten-Free

If you're gluten intolerant or just looking to reduce your gluten intake, there are gluten-free bread options that can work for a Reuben. Look for a sturdy loaf that can hold up to the other ingredients.

Ciabatta

While it may not be the traditional choice, a ciabatta roll can also work for a Reuben sandwich. Just make sure it's thick enough to hold all the ingredients without getting soggy.

When choosing the bread for your Reuben, it's important to consider the thickness and sturdiness of the slices. You want something that can support the weight of the corned beef, sauerkraut, and other toppings without falling apart or getting soggy.

How to make Russian dressing

Russian dressing is a key ingredient in a Reuben sandwich, adding a creamy texture and a hint of spiciness. It is a versatile condiment that can be used on salads, as a dip, or with crab cakes or chicken wings. Here is a recipe for Russian dressing, with some variations depending on your preference.

Ingredients:

• Mayonnaise (a base ingredient)
• Sour cream
• Lemon juice (a small amount, about half a lemon)
• Chili garlic sauce, or sriracha, spicy ketchup, or chilli sauce
• Horseradish (prepared)
• Worcestershire sauce
• Spices: paprika, salt, and pepper
• Onion (white, Spanish, or sweet), minced
• Shallot (finely minced)
• Dill pickle, minced
• Parsley (curly leaves), chopped

Method:

• Combine all the ingredients in a small bowl.
• Whip or whisk together until the mixture is smooth.
• Place in the fridge until ready to use.

This dressing can be made a day or two in advance and will keep in the fridge for up to two weeks. It is not suitable for freezing as this will affect the texture.

How to reheat a Reuben sandwich

To reheat a Reuben sandwich in an air fryer, set the temperature to around 350°F and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in an oven or on a stovetop.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
• Wrap the sandwich loosely in aluminum foil.
• Place the sandwich in the air fryer basket and heat for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the sandwich is warmed to your liking.
• If you're reheating multiple sandwiches, you may need to cook them in batches to ensure even heating.
• Enjoy your warm and crispy Reuben sandwich!

How to prevent a soggy sandwich

Making a Reuben sandwich in an air fryer is a great way to get the bread extra crispy while keeping the insides warm and gooey. But if you're not careful, you could end up with a soggy sandwich. Here are some tips to prevent that from happening:

Choose the Right Bread:

• Opt for a robust bread such as rye, sourdough, crusty baguette, ciabatta, or bagels. These types of bread will hold up better against moist fillings and won't get soggy as quickly.
• If using store-bought bread, try lightly toasting one side of the bread. This will give the bread more structural soundness while keeping the outside soft and pleasant to bite into.
• If buying a loaf of bread from a bakery, get it unsliced and slice it yourself at home. This way, you can cut thicker, sturdier slices that will make for a heartier sandwich.

Prepare the Ingredients:

• Ensure that all your ingredients are dry. Wash and dry any lettuces or greens in a salad spinner and then with a clean tea towel.
• Ingredients like pickles, olives, artichokes, peppers, and tomatoes tend to have excess moisture. Be sure to pat them down with paper towels before adding them to your sandwich.
• Let your bread fully cool after toasting before assembling your sandwich. Prop the slices up at an angle to prevent steam from softening the bread.

Assemble the Sandwich:

• If possible, assemble your sandwich as close to serving time as possible. The less time the sandwich has to sit, the less chance it has to get soggy.
• If making your sandwich ahead of time, wrap it well and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Alternatively, you can assemble your sandwich with dry fillings first and add wet fillings, like tomatoes or tuna, at the last minute.
• Another option is to pack your fillings and bread separately and assemble your sandwich right before eating.

Cooking and Storage:

• When cooking your Reuben sandwich in the air fryer, follow the recipe instructions carefully. Keep an eye on your sandwich to ensure it doesn't burn or get too crispy, which can lead to sogginess.
• If storing leftover sandwiches, wrap them in parchment paper instead of aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Parchment paper is slightly porous and will absorb some moisture.
• Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at a lower temperature to avoid overcooking.

Frequently asked questions