Why Reuben Egg Rolls Work So Well

Reuben sandwiches are already a fan favorite, but turning them into egg rolls elevates them to a whole new level. Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:

• Crispy Exterior: The egg roll wrapper fries up to a golden, crunchy perfection, making each bite satisfying.
• Creamy, Melty Filling: The combination of Swiss cheese, cream cheese, and Russian dressing creates a rich and creamy filling that contrasts beautifully with the crispy shell.
• Savory and Tangy Balance: Corned beef brings a salty, meaty flavor, while sauerkraut adds the perfect amount of acidity to balance out the richness.
• Easy to Make: Despite their gourmet appearance, these egg rolls are surprisingly simple to assemble and fry.

The History of the Reuben Sandwich

The Reuben sandwich, a staple in American delis, has a debated origin. Some claim it was invented in the 1920s by Reuben Kulakofsky, a grocer in Omaha, Nebraska, while others attribute it to Arnold Reuben, a New York deli owner. Regardless of its beginnings, the sandwich has remained a beloved classic, known for its bold flavors and indulgent texture.

Traditional Reuben sandwiches feature rye bread, corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, all grilled to perfection. By transforming these ingredients into a deep-fried appetizer, Reuben egg rolls take the iconic flavors and make them even more addictive.

The Key Ingredients That Make These Egg Rolls Perfect

Each component in these egg rolls plays a crucial role in delivering the signature Reuben flavor.

• Corned Beef: The heart of the dish, corned beef provides a salty, savory, and slightly spiced flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients. Chopping it finely ensures even distribution in every bite.
• Swiss Cheese: Melts beautifully, creating a gooey, creamy texture that holds the filling together. Its nutty, mild flavor complements the saltiness of the corned beef.
• Sauerkraut: Adds tanginess and a bit of crunch, cutting through the richness of the cheese and meat. Draining it well prevents excess moisture from making the egg rolls soggy.
• Russian Dressing: A key element of the traditional Reuben sandwich, this creamy, slightly sweet, and tangy sauce ties the filling together and serves as a perfect dipping sauce.
• Egg Roll Wrappers: Provide a crispy, golden shell that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, cheesy interior.

Why Russian Dressing is Essential

Russian dressing is a creamy, tangy condiment made with mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, and Worcestershire sauce. It has a slightly spicy kick that enhances the richness of the filling. If you don’t have Russian dressing on hand, Thousand Island dressing can be used as a substitute, though it tends to be a bit sweeter.

The dressing serves two purposes in this recipe:

1. In the Filling: It adds creaminess and ensures every bite has the classic Reuben taste.
2. As a Dipping Sauce: It provides an extra layer of flavor, making each egg roll even more indulgent.

How to Achieve the Perfect Crispiness

To get the crispiest, golden-brown egg rolls, follow these key tips:

• Use Fresh Oil: Old or reused oil can make egg rolls greasy and heavy. Always start with clean oil.
• Heat the Oil to the Right Temperature: The oil should be around 350°F (175°C). If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is fully melted; if it’s too cool, the egg rolls will absorb excess oil and become soggy.
• Drain the Sauerkraut Well: Excess liquid in the filling can make the egg rolls burst open while frying.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many egg rolls at once lowers the oil temperature, leading to uneven cooking. Work in small batches for the best results.
• Drain on Paper Towels: After frying, let the egg rolls rest on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil and maintain their crunch.

Alternative Cooking Methods – Baking or Air Frying

If you want a lighter version of these egg rolls, you can bake or air-fry them instead of deep-frying.

• Baking Method:

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Brush each egg roll lightly with oil or melted butter.
  • Arrange them on a baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

• Air Frying Method:

  • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  • Lightly spray the egg rolls with cooking oil.
  • Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown.

While deep-frying gives the crispiest texture, baking and air frying are great alternatives for a healthier option.

Serving Suggestions

Reuben egg rolls are best served hot and fresh, paired with extra Russian dressing for dipping. Here are a few creative ways to serve them:

• On a Platter for Parties: Arrange them on a serving tray with a bowl of Russian dressing in the center.
• With a Side of Pickles: Dill pickles add a refreshing crunch and acidity that complements the rich filling.
• Paired with a Cold Beer: A crisp lager or an amber ale pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of the egg rolls.
• With a Side of Coleslaw: A light, tangy coleslaw balances out the richness of the dish.

Customization Ideas – Making It Your Own

Reuben egg rolls are highly adaptable, and you can tweak the ingredients to suit your preferences.

• Make It Spicier: Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a kick.
• Use Pastrami Instead of Corned Beef: Pastrami has a more intense smoky flavor, making for an interesting variation.
• Try Different Cheeses: Swiss is traditional, but Gruyère or provolone can also work well.
• Add Caraway Seeds: Sprinkling a few caraway seeds into the filling mimics the rye bread flavor from the classic sandwich.
• Use Wonton Wrappers for Mini Versions: Perfect for bite-sized appetizers!

Conclusion

Reuben egg rolls are a fun and creative way to enjoy the flavors of a classic deli sandwich in a crispy, handheld form. With their crunchy exterior and gooey, cheesy interior, they make for an unforgettable appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion.