Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Ultimate Reuben Roll-Up?
It is a savory pastry dish that reimagines the classic Reuben sandwich using puff pastry filled with pastrami, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing.
What type of pastry is required for this recipe?
This recipe uses a half package (about 17 1/4 ounces) of frozen puff pastry that has been thawed.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C) before baking.
How long does the Reuben Roll-Up need to bake?
Bake the roll-up for 40 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed.
Can I use corned beef instead of pastrami?
Yes, you can substitute pastrami with an equal amount of sliced corned beef for a more traditional Reuben flavor.
Should the sauerkraut be prepared in any specific way?
Yes, it is important to drain the sauerkraut thoroughly to prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy.
What is the purpose of the egg in this recipe?
The beaten egg is used as a wash to seal the pastry seams and to give the exterior a beautiful golden finish.
How should I roll the pastry?
Roll the pastry jellyroll style, keeping the layers tight enough to hold together without squeezing the filling out the sides.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Swiss cheese is traditional for Reubens, you can substitute it with Gruyere or Provolone if preferred.
What dressing is best for this recipe?
Thousand Island dressing is recommended for its tangy and zesty flavor profile.
How do I prevent the filling from escaping during baking?
Brush the edges with egg wash, press the long seam firmly to seal, and tuck in the short ends before placing it seam-side down.
How much pastrami do I need?
The recipe calls for 1/2 lb of sliced pastrami.
Is it necessary to roll out the puff pastry?
Yes, use a rolling pin to gently roll out the thawed pastry to seal any creases and ensure a smooth surface for filling.
Should I grease the baking sheet?
Yes, the baking sheet should be lightly sprayed with cooking spray to prevent the pastry from sticking.
How do I know when the roll-up is finished cooking?
The pastry will be visibly puffed up and have a consistent golden brown color.
Can I serve this as an appetizer?
Absolutely! While great for lunch, it can be sliced into smaller portions to serve as a finger food or snack.
How long should I let it cool before slicing?
Let the roll-up cool for a few minutes after removing it from the oven to allow the filling to set slightly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can substitute the pastrami with a plant-based deli slice alternative to create a vegetarian version.
What goes well with a Reuben Roll-Up?
It pairs perfectly with a side of pickles, a light green salad, or extra Thousand Island dressing for dipping.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
This recipe requires 6 main ingredients: puff pastry, dressing, pastrami, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and an egg.
Can I substitute Russian dressing for Thousand Island?
Yes, Russian dressing is a common substitute that provides a similar tangy flavor with a bit more spice.
How much sauerkraut is used?
The recipe suggests using between 1 and 2 cups of drained sauerkraut depending on your preference.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F until warmed through to maintain the crispness of the puff pastry.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can assemble the roll-up a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated until you are ready to bake.
Does the puff pastry need to be completely thawed?
Yes, it should be thawed so it is pliable enough to unfold and roll without cracking.
What size should the pastrami slices be?
Standard deli-sliced pastrami works best as it layers easily inside the pastry.
Can I add spices to the top of the roll?
Yes, sprinkling caraway seeds on top of the egg wash before baking can add an authentic rye-bread flavor.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, with its warm, savory filling and flaky crust, it is a classic comfort food dish.
What is the texture of the finished dish?
The exterior is light, flaky, and crisp, while the interior is melted, creamy, and savory.