Reuben Vs Monte Cristo: Which One Tastes Better?
What To Know
- The French toast bread provides a crispy and eggy exterior, while the ham and turkey add a salty and smoky flavor.
- The Swiss cheese melts into a gooey layer, and the sandwich has a slightly sweet and tangy taste from the egg batter.
- If you’re looking for a sweet and savory sandwich with a more complex and indulgent taste, the Monte Cristo is the way to go.
The world of sandwiches is vast and diverse, with endless possibilities for flavor combinations and ingredients. Among the most iconic sandwiches, two stand out as titans: the Reuben and the Monte Cristo. Both sandwiches have legions of fans, but which one reigns supreme? Let’s delve into a culinary showdown to determine the ultimate champion.
History and Origins
Reuben Sandwich
The Reuben sandwich has its roots in Omaha, Nebraska, in the early 20th century. It is attributed to Arnold Reuben, a Lithuanian immigrant who owned a delicatessen. The sandwich was initially created as a midnight snack for a group of poker players and quickly gained popularity.
Monte Cristo Sandwich
The Monte Cristo sandwich has a more uncertain origin. Some believe it was invented in France in the 19th century, while others attribute it to a New Orleans chef named Pierre Fontaine in the early 20th century. The sandwich’s name likely refers to the famous novel by Alexandre Dumas.
Ingredients and Preparation
Reuben Sandwich
The Reuben sandwich is a classic combination of rye bread, corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing. The corned beef is typically sliced thin and cooked, while the sauerkraut is fermented cabbage. The sandwich is grilled or toasted until the cheese is melted and gooey.
Monte Cristo Sandwich
The Monte Cristo sandwich is a more elaborate creation. It starts with two slices of French toast bread, which are then dipped in an egg batter. The sandwich is then filled with ham, Swiss cheese, and turkey. It is cooked in a skillet until golden brown on both sides.
Taste and Texture
Reuben Sandwich
The Reuben sandwich has a savory and tangy flavor profile. The corned beef provides a salty and smoky flavor, while the Swiss cheese adds a creamy richness. The sauerkraut brings a sour and crunchy element, and the Thousand Island dressing ties everything together. The texture is soft and chewy, with a slight crunch from the sauerkraut.
Monte Cristo Sandwich
The Monte Cristo sandwich is a sweet and savory delight. The French toast bread provides a crispy and eggy exterior, while the ham and turkey add a salty and smoky flavor. The Swiss cheese melts into a gooey layer, and the sandwich has a slightly sweet and tangy taste from the egg batter. The texture is soft and fluffy, with a crispy exterior.
Popularity and Availability
Reuben Sandwich
The Reuben sandwich is widely popular in the United States and is often served at delis, diners, and sandwich shops. It is also a common menu item at Irish pubs and restaurants.
Monte Cristo Sandwich
The Monte Cristo sandwich is less common than the Reuben but still has a loyal following. It is typically found at brunch spots, cafes, and upscale restaurants.
Variations and Spin-offs
Reuben Sandwich Variations
- Rachel Sandwich: Substitutes turkey for corned beef.
- Reuben Roll: A Reuben sandwich served in a hoagie roll.
- Reuben Pizza: A pizza topped with Reuben sandwich ingredients.
Monte Cristo Sandwich Variations
- French Toast Sandwich: A Monte Cristo sandwich made with regular bread instead of French toast bread.
- Croque Monsieur: A French variation with ham, cheese, and béchamel sauce.
- Monte Cristo Waffle Sandwich: A Monte Cristo sandwich made with waffles instead of French toast bread.
Which Sandwich Reigns Supreme?
The answer to the ultimate question of Reuben vs Monte Cristo is subjective and depends on personal preferences. Both sandwiches offer unique and delicious experiences.
If you prefer a savory and tangy sandwich with a classic deli flavor, the Reuben is the clear choice. If you’re looking for a sweet and savory sandwich with a more complex and indulgent taste, the Monte Cristo is the way to go.
Final Verdict: A Culinary Tie
Ultimately, both the Reuben and Monte Cristo sandwiches are culinary masterpieces that deserve their place among the sandwich elite. They each offer a distinct and unforgettable taste experience, and the choice between them comes down to individual preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between a Reuben and a Monte Cristo sandwich?
A: The Reuben sandwich is made with rye bread, corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing, while the Monte Cristo sandwich is made with French toast bread, ham, Swiss cheese, turkey, and egg batter.
Q: Which sandwich is more popular?
A: The Reuben sandwich is more widely available and popular in the United States.
Q: Can I make a vegetarian version of the Reuben or Monte Cristo sandwich?
A: Yes, you can substitute tofu or tempeh for the meat in both sandwiches. For the Monte Cristo, you can also use a vegan egg replacer in the batter.
Q: How do I store leftover Reuben or Monte Cristo sandwiches?
A: Wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze Reuben or Monte Cristo sandwiches?
A: Yes, you can freeze the sandwiches for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.
