Reuben Fritters

Reuben Fritters are a delightful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, transforming traditional ingredients into crispy, bite-sized appetizers. These fritters combine corned beef, sauerkraut, and cheese, offering a flavorful experience perfect for gatherings or as a savory snack.

Ingredients

• 3/4 pound corned beef, finely chopped
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Vegetable or canola oil, for frying
• Salt, to taste
• Thousand Island dressing, for dipping

Directions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the chopped corned beef, softened cream cheese, drained sauerkraut, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until well combined.
2. Form the Fritters: Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Set Up Breading Station: In three separate bowls, place the flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs.
4. Bread the Fritters: Roll each fritter ball first in the flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs. Ensure each ball is thoroughly coated at each step.
5. Heat the Oil: In a deep pot or skillet, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the correct temperature.
6. Fry the Fritters: Carefully place a few fritters into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain and Season: Remove the fritters using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. While still hot, season with a pinch of salt.
8. Serve: Serve the fritters warm with Thousand Island dressing on the side for dipping.

Nutrients

• Calories: Approximately 400 kcal
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 20g

The Unique Twist of Reuben Fritters

Reuben Fritters take the classic flavors of a traditional Reuben sandwich and transform them into crispy, bite-sized delights. The Reuben sandwich itself is a well-loved dish, known for its combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing, all stacked between slices of rye bread. This fritter version takes these ingredients, rolls them into small, flavorful bites, and coats them in crispy breadcrumbs before frying. The result is a crunchy, cheesy, and savory appetizer that is perfect for parties, gatherings, or even as a unique snack.

Why Reuben Fritters Are a Must-Try

One of the biggest appeals of Reuben Fritters is their versatility. They can be served as an appetizer at a dinner party, as a game-day snack, or even as a fun twist on a classic comfort food. Since they are deep-fried, they have an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, cheesy, and tangy filling. The balance of flavors in these fritters makes them a standout dish for any occasion. The crispy texture is what sets Reuben Fritters apart from the traditional sandwich. While the original Reuben has a toasty, buttery crunch from the rye bread, these fritters take it a step further with a golden, deep-fried exterior that locks in the delicious flavors. The sauerkraut brings a slight acidity and tang that cuts through the richness of the cheese and corned beef, creating a perfectly balanced bite every time.

The History Behind the Reuben

The origins of the Reuben sandwich are somewhat debated, but one widely accepted story is that it was created in the early 20th century at a hotel in Omaha, Nebraska. Another theory credits a New York deli with the invention. Regardless of its true origin, the Reuben has become a staple in American delis and diners, known for its hearty, comforting taste. Reuben Fritters build on this classic sandwich by turning it into an entirely new dish. While the sandwich is typically enjoyed as a lunch or dinner option, the fritters make it possible to enjoy those same flavors in a bite-sized form that works as an appetizer or party snack.

Perfect Pairings for Reuben Fritters

Reuben Fritters pair well with a variety of sides and dipping sauces. The most common and recommended dip is Thousand Island dressing, which complements the fritters with its creamy and slightly sweet flavor.  To round out a meal, you can serve Reuben Fritters with a light salad or a bowl of soup. A classic tomato soup or a simple coleslaw would add freshness and balance to the fried dish.

Cooking Tips for the Best Reuben Fritters

Achieving the perfect Reuben Fritter requires a few key techniques:

• Draining the Sauerkraut Properly – Since sauerkraut is high in moisture, it’s crucial to drain and even pat it dry with a paper towel before mixing it into the filling. Excess moisture can make the fritters fall apart during frying.
• Chilling the Fritter Mixture – Letting the formed fritters chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before frying helps them hold their shape and prevents them from breaking apart in the hot oil.
• Maintaining the Right Oil Temperature – The ideal frying temperature is around 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is heated through. If it’s too cold, the fritters may absorb too much oil and become greasy.
• Using Panko Breadcrumbs – While traditional breadcrumbs can work, panko breadcrumbs provide a crispier and lighter texture, which makes for a better contrast to the creamy filling.

Can Reuben Fritters Be Made Ahead of Time?

Yes! Reuben Fritters can be prepared ahead of time, making them perfect for entertaining. Here are some ways to prep them in advance:

• Refrigerate Before Frying – Once the fritters are formed and coated, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before frying.
• Freeze for Later – If you want to prepare them even further in advance, you can freeze the uncooked fritters. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, fry them straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Reheating Leftovers – While fresh-fried fritters are best, leftovers can be reheated in an air fryer or oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes to crisp them up again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If you prefer a lighter version of this recipe, you can opt for alternative cooking methods instead of deep frying. In Air Fryer Method, Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the fritters in a single layer in the basket. Lightly spray them with cooking oil and air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. Also, in Baked Version, Arrange the fritters on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-18 minutes, flipping once for even crispiness. Spraying them with oil before baking can help achieve a crunchier texture.

Conclusion

Reuben Fritters offer a delicious and creative way to enjoy the beloved flavors of the classic Reuben sandwich. Their crispy, golden exterior and rich, cheesy interior make them a crowd-pleasing appetizer for any occasion. Whether served with traditional Thousand Island dressing or paired with a spicy mustard dip, these fritters are sure to impress. With various cooking methods, make-ahead options, and customization possibilities, this recipe is incredibly versatile and easy to adapt. Whether deep-fried, air-fried, or baked, Reuben Fritters bring a unique twist to a timeless classic. So, the next time you’re looking for a standout appetizer, give these crispy, cheesy delights a try!