Buenos Aires Rubén

The Buenos Aires Rubén is a delightful fusion of the classic American Reuben sandwich and the vibrant culinary traditions of Argentina. This dish pays homage to both cultural gastronomies, combining the hearty components of a classic Reuben with the robust flavors of Buenos Aires.

History of the Buenos Aires Rubén

The Reuben sandwich has a storied history in American cuisine, traditionally made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing on rye bread. Its origins date back to the early 20th century, with debates over its exact beginnings. The Buenos Aires Rubén takes this iconic sandwich to new heights by incorporating elements common in Argentine gastronomy, such as chimichurri, a green sauce used for grilled meat, and adding regional twists to the preparation.

Ingredients

• Rye bread
• Corned beef
• Swiss cheese
• Sauerkraut
• Chimichurri sauce
• Butter
• Argentinian chorizo
• Thousand Island dressing
• Black pepper
• Salt

Preparation

Start by preparing the chimichurri sauce, if you're making it from scratch, by blending fresh parsley, garlic, olive oil, oregano, and vinegar. Meanwhile, thinly slice the Argentinian chorizo and lightly fry it in a skillet for added piquancy.

Assembly

1. Spread chimichurri sauce generously on one side of each slice of rye bread.
2. Add a layer of corned beef on one slice followed by a slice of Swiss cheese.
3. Evenly distribute the sautéed chorizo slices on top of the cheese for an additional layer of flavor.
4. Top it all with a spoonful of sauerkraut, ensuring it is well-drained.
5. Season with black pepper and salt to taste.

Cooking

Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt a knob of butter. Place the assembled sandwich in the skillet and press it slightly for a good sear. Grill each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and the Swiss cheese has melted. For precision, use a cooking timer to keep track of the grilling time.

How to Enjoy

To enjoy your Buenos Aires Rubén at its best, slice it down the middle and serve it warm. Consider pairing it with a side of crispy fries or a light salad. The rich, layered flavors of the sandwich pair remarkably well with a cold, crisp beer or a glass of Argentine Malbec, offering a nod to its vibrant roots. Whether you're hosting a get-together or enjoying solo comfort food, this sandwich is sure to delight.