I recently had the pleasure of trying a dish at a local German restaurant that inspired me to create my own version of a unique fusion sandwich: the German Potato Pancake Reuben Stack.
This creative sandwich idea combines the traditional German potato pancake with the classic Reuben sandwich, featuring crispy potato pancakes as the base, topped with savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese.
Key Takeaways
- A creative twist on traditional Reuben sandwiches
- Features crispy potato pancakes as the base
- Includes savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese
- A perfect dish for those looking for a unique fusion sandwich
- Easy to make and customize to your taste
Ingredients for the Perfect Reuben Stack
To make the perfect German Potato Pancake Reuben Stack, it’s crucial to select the right ingredients. The quality of these ingredients directly impacts the flavor and authenticity of the dish, embodying the essence of German cuisine.
Fresh Potatoes and Onion
The foundation of any great potato pancake is, of course, the potatoes themselves. I recommend using 2 large potatoes, which should be peeled and grated. Alongside the potatoes, 1 small onion, finely chopped, adds a depth of flavor that’s quintessential to traditional German potato pancakes.
Essential Condiments
In addition to the potatoes and onion, several condiments play a crucial role in the Reuben Stack. Thousand Island dressing is a key component, bringing a tangy, creamy element to the dish. Furthermore, sauerkraut, with its sour taste, balances out the richness of other ingredients. I use 1/2 cup of sauerkraut, drained well to avoid excess moisture.
The Heart of the Stack: Corned Beef and Cheese
No Reuben Stack is complete without the star ingredients: corned beef and Swiss cheese. I use 1.5 lbs of deli-sliced corned beef and 8 slices of Swiss cheese. These ingredients not only provide the main flavors but also the texture and heartiness that make the Reuben Stack so satisfying.
To bind the potato pancakes together, 1 egg and 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour are essential. The egg helps to keep the pancakes moist, while the flour adds structure. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.
Here’s a summary of the key ingredients needed:
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1.5 lbs deli-sliced corned beef
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- Thousand Island dressing
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Preparation
The key to a perfect Reuben sandwich twist lies in its preparation, which I will walk you through. This traditional German dish requires some effort, but the result is well worth it.
Making the Potato Pancakes
To start, you’ll need to make the potato pancakes, a crucial component of this savory potato dish. Grate the potatoes and onion, then squeeze out excess moisture. Mix in flour and egg to bind the ingredients together.
Form the mixture into patties and fry them in a pan until they’re crispy and golden brown. This step is essential for creating a sturdy base for your Reuben stack.
Assembling the Reuben Stack
Once your potato pancakes are ready, it’s time to assemble the Reuben stack. Start by spreading Thousand Island dressing on top of the pancakes.
Next, layer corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese on top of the dressing. This combination of flavors and textures is what makes the Reuben stack so delicious.
Achieving the Perfect Golden Brown
To achieve the perfect golden-brown finish, preheat your broiler. Place the assembled Reuben stack under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Keep an eye on the stack to ensure it doesn’t overcook. The result should be a crispy, golden-brown top that adds to the overall appeal of this savory potato dish.
Tips and Variations
As I reflect on the German Potato Pancake Reuben Stack recipe, I’m excited to share some tips and variations to make this delicious brunch recipe even more special. The original inspiration from a restaurant banner has been adapted for home cooking, and now it’s your turn to put your own twist on it.
Garnishing Your Stack
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream can elevate the dish. Consider adding some pickled red onions or a sprinkle of paprika to give it a personal touch, making it a true homemade comfort food.
Creative Twists
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Swiss or Gruyère, to change the flavor profile. You can also add some diced ham or bacon to make it even heartier. The possibilities are endless, and I encourage you to get creative.
Serving Suggestions
This Reuben Stack is perfect for a weekend brunch or a casual dinner party. Serve it with a side of mixed greens or a fruit salad for a well-rounded meal. Whatever the occasion, I’m sure this dish will become a new favorite.
FAQ
What is a German Potato Pancake Reuben Stack?
The German Potato Pancake Reuben Stack is a unique fusion dish that combines traditional German potato pancakes with the classic Reuben sandwich, featuring corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese.
Can I use leftover potatoes to make the potato pancakes?
While you can use leftover mashed or boiled potatoes, it’s best to use fresh potatoes for the best flavor and texture. Grate or shred the potatoes just before making the pancakes for optimal results.
What type of corned beef is best for the Reuben Stack?
Thinly sliced, high-quality corned beef is ideal for the Reuben Stack. You can use deli-style corned beef or cook your own brisket and slice it thinly.
Can I substitute the Thousand Island dressing with another condiment?
Yes, you can experiment with different condiments, such as Russian dressing or a homemade Thousand Island dressing alternative. However, keep in mind that Thousand Island dressing provides a distinct flavor profile that complements the other ingredients.
How do I achieve the perfect golden-brown finish on the potato pancakes?
To achieve a golden-brown finish, make sure to fry the potato pancakes in hot oil (around 375°F) and don’t overcrowd the pan. Drain excess oil on paper towels to prevent sogginess.
Can I make the German Potato Pancake Reuben Stack ahead of time?
While you can prepare the individual components ahead of time, it’s best to assemble the stack just before serving to ensure the potato pancakes remain crispy.
What are some creative twists on the classic German Potato Pancake Reuben Stack?
Consider adding caramelized onions, using different types of cheese, or substituting the corned beef with pastrami or roast beef for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Is the German Potato Pancake Reuben Stack suitable for a brunch or dinner party?
Absolutely! The German Potato Pancake Reuben Stack is a versatile dish that can be served at both brunch and dinner parties. Its unique flavor profile and satisfying portion size make it an excellent choice for a variety of gatherings.
The Ultimate German Potato Pancake Reuben Stack
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A creative fusion of German potato pancakes and classic Reuben sandwich, featuring crispy potato pancakes layered with savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese. Crafted for discerning home chefs seeking restaurant-quality brunch perfection with unique German-American fusion appeal.
Ingredients
2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 egg, beaten
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained well
1.5 lbs deli-sliced corned beef
8 slices Swiss cheese
Thousand Island dressing
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
1. Grate the potatoes and onion, then squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
2. In a large bowl, mix the grated potatoes and onion with beaten egg, flour, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into 4 large patties about 1/2 inch thick.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (around 375°F).
5. Fry the potato pancakes for 4-5 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
6. Place the cooked potato pancakes on a baking sheet.
7. Spread Thousand Island dressing generously on top of each pancake.
8. Layer corned beef slices evenly over the dressing.
9. Add drained sauerkraut on top of the corned beef.
10. Top with 2 slices of Swiss cheese per stack.
11. Preheat broiler to high.
12. Place the assembled stacks under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
13. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
For extra crispy potato pancakes, squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated potatoes.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying – work in batches for best results.
Watch carefully under the broiler to prevent burning – cheese should be melted and just starting to bubble.
Serve immediately while potato pancakes are still crispy.
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- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Pan-Frying, Broiling
- Cuisine: German-American Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1450mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 145mg