Reuben Rolls: A Taste of Summerfest in Every Bite

The vibrant energy of Milwaukee’s Summerfest is a sensory overload in the best possible way. Amidst the thrum of live music and the cheerful din of thousands, I discovered a culinary gem that has stayed with me ever since: the Reuben Roll. It was one of those serendipitous food discoveries, a brilliant twist on a classic that captured all the beloved flavors of a Reuben sandwich in a delightfully portable and dippable package. That first bite, a perfect harmony of tangy sauerkraut, savory corned beef, and melted Swiss cheese encased in a crispy shell, was a revelation. Recreating that magic at home has become a cherished ritual, a way to bottle up those summer memories and savor them year-round, whether baked to a golden crunch or fried to an irresistible crisp.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes (bake) / Varies (fry)
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yields: 9 Rolls
• Dietary Type: Non-Vegetarian

Ingredients

The beauty of the Reuben Roll lies in its simplicity, relying on quality ingredients that sing in harmony. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this iconic flavor profile home:

• 1/2 lb deli corned beef, sliced
• 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup drained, rinsed sauerkraut (adjust to your preference for tanginess)
• 6-10 large egg roll wraps
• Cooking spray (if baking) or oil (for deep frying)

Equipment Needed

To bring these Reuben Rolls to life, you’ll want to have the following on hand:

• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife (for slicing corned beef)
• Cutting board
• Baking sheet (if baking)
• Parchment paper (optional, for easier cleanup if baking)
• Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot (if deep frying)
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer (for deep frying)
• Paper towels (for draining fried rolls)

Instructions

Crafting these Reuben Rolls is an approachable and rewarding process. Whether you opt for the lighter baked version or the classic deep-fried indulgence, the result is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

1. Prepare the Corned Beef: Begin by slicing your deli corned beef into ribbons. For the best texture and ease of rolling, I find it helpful to gently roll a few slices of corned beef together, almost like a cigar, and then slice them thinly. This ensures you get a good distribution of beef in every bite.

2. Create the Filling: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the shredded Swiss cheese, the prepared sliced corned beef, and the drained and rinsed sauerkraut. Gently toss everything together until it’s well combined. Don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of sauerkraut to suit your personal taste – a little more tang or a little less is entirely up to you.

3. Assemble the Rolls: Lay an egg roll wrap on a clean, dry surface with one corner pointing towards you, like a diamond. Place approximately 1/3 cup of the corned beef mixture onto the lower third of the wrapper. Carefully fold the bottom corner up over the filling, tucking it in snugly. Then, fold in the two side corners towards the center. Finally, roll the entire package upwards towards the top corner, ensuring it’s tight. To seal the last edge, dab a tiny bit of water along the edge and press firmly to secure. Repeat this process for the remaining filling and egg roll wrappers, aiming for about 9 rolls in total.

4. Cook the Reuben Rolls (Choose Your Method):

   • To Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Arrange the prepared rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Liberally spray or brush the tops of the rolls with more cooking spray or a light coating of oil. Bake for 10-12 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through the baking process, until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is delightfully melted and bubbly.

   • To Deep Fry: Heat about 2-3 inches of oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the assembled rolls to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot; fry them in batches if necessary. Fry for until they are deep golden brown and delightfully crisp. Using a slotted spoon or spider strainer, remove the fried rolls from the oil and drain them thoroughly on a plate lined with paper towels.

Expert Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Reuben Rolls from good to absolutely unforgettable, consider these professional insights:

• The Corned Beef Cut: When slicing the corned beef, if you’re using thicker deli slices, a mandoline can be a lifesaver for achieving consistently thin ribbons. Alternatively, chilling the corned beef for about 15-20 minutes before slicing can make it firmer and easier to cut cleanly.
• Sauerkraut Squeeze: Ensure your sauerkraut is thoroughly drained and even squeezed dry. Excess moisture can lead to a soggy filling and potentially split wrappers. A clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth works wonders for this.
• Wrapper Work: Work with your egg roll wraps one at a time, keeping the rest covered with a damp paper towel. This prevents them from drying out and becoming brittle, which can make them difficult to roll and seal.
• Don’t Overfill: Resist the temptation to stuff too much filling into each wrapper. Overfilling makes them challenging to roll tightly and can cause them to burst during cooking.
• The Perfect Golden Hue: For baking, the spray oil is crucial for achieving that desirable crisp and color. Don’t be shy with it! For frying, maintaining the oil temperature is key. Too low, and they’ll be greasy; too high, and they’ll burn before the inside is heated through.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Reuben Rolls are a versatile treat, perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal.

Serving: Serve them hot and fresh from the oven or fryer. They are absolutely divine on their own, but for the ultimate Reuben experience, a tangy horseradish sauce or a classic Thousand Island dressing is the perfect accompaniment for dipping. A dollop of creamy sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives can also add a delightful finishing touch.

Storage: Leftover Reuben Rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To reheat, I highly recommend placing them in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Microwaving is not ideal as it tends to make them soft and less appealing.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content for these delicious Reuben Rolls. Please note that these are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient choices and cooking methods.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	327 kcal	16%
Total Fat	17.7 g	23%
Saturated Fat	8.9 g	44%
Cholesterol	73 mg	24%
Sodium	758.8 mg	31%
Total Carbohydrate	21.1 g	7%
Dietary Fiber	0.9 g	3%
Sugars	0.7 g	2%
Protein	19.8 g	39%

Values are approximate and based on standard ingredient measurements and deep-frying method. Baking will generally reduce fat and calorie content.

Variations & Substitutions

While the classic Reuben Roll is hard to beat, there’s always room for a little culinary creativity!

• Gluten-Free Option: For those seeking a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free egg roll wrappers or explore alternative wrappers like rice paper wraps (though these will yield a different texture).
• Meat Variations: While corned beef is traditional, you could experiment with thinly sliced pastrami for a spicier kick or even shredded roast beef in a pinch.
• Cheese Choices: While Swiss is classic, a blend of Gruyère and mozzarella could offer a creamier melt.
• Vegetarian Twist: For a vegetarian interpretation, try a filling of sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, and sharp cheddar cheese, seasoned with a touch of Dijon mustard.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make the filling ahead of time?
A: Yes, the filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This can save you time on assembly day.

Q: What is the best way to prevent the egg roll wrappers from tearing?
A: Ensure your wrappers are not dried out by keeping them covered. Handle them gently and don’t overfill the rolls. If a small tear occurs, you can often patch it with a little water.

Q: Can I air fry these Reuben Rolls?
A: While not explicitly in the original instructions, air frying is a good alternative. Preheat your air fryer to around 375°F (190°C) and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp. Lightly spray the rolls with oil before cooking.

Q: How can I make a spicy dipping sauce for these rolls?
A: Mix your favorite horseradish sauce or Thousand Island dressing with a dash of sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper to add a bit of heat.

Q: Is it better to bake or deep fry these Reuben Rolls?
A: Both methods yield delicious results! Deep frying offers the ultimate crispiness, while baking provides a lighter, yet still satisfying, crunch. It often comes down to personal preference and dietary considerations.

Final Thoughts

The Reuben Roll is more than just a clever appetizer; it’s a portable celebration of flavor, a testament to how familiar ingredients can be reimagined into something truly exciting. Whether you’re reminiscing about your own festival memories or creating new ones at your kitchen table, these rolls are guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfied sighs. They pair wonderfully with a crisp lager, a dry cider, or even a tart dill pickle spear. So gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and get ready to experience the irresistible charm of the Reuben Roll – a taste of pure comfort and joy, any time of year.