Rubens Mini Sausage

Rubens Mini Sausage Recipe with Rye Bread and Swiss Cheese from Belgium and Switzerland

Region / culture: Belgium, Switzerland | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 10

Introduction

Rubens Mini Sausage is a delicious and savory appetizer that combines the flavors of smoked sausage, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and thousand island dressing on party rye bread. This recipe is perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply as a tasty snack.

History

The Rubens Mini Sausage recipe is a twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, which is believed to have originated in the United States in the early 20th century. The sandwich typically consists of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing on rye bread. This mini sausage version adds a unique and flavorful twist to the traditional recipe.

Ingredients

0.5 lb (227 g) of Smoked sausage
1 Loaf of Party rye bread
4 tbsp of butter
1 cup of thousand island dressing
16 oz (454 g) of Saurkraut
10 Slices of swiss cheese

How to prepare

Slice the sausage into pieces that are 0.25 inches thick.
Drain the sauerkraut.
Cut the cheese slices into strips that are 0.5 inches by 2-0.5 inches.
Melt the butter in a small skillet.
Brush both sides of the rye bread with butter.
Place the bread on a baking sheet.
Toast the bread at a temperature of 400°F (204°C) for 5 minutes.
Turn the bread over.
Remove the bread from the oven and assemble the rubens, ending with criss-crossed cheese slices on top.
Bake the rubens for 5–10 minutes.

Variations

Substitute the smoked sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
Use marble rye bread or pumpernickel bread for a different flavor profile.
Add a sprinkle of caraway seeds or mustard seeds for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the sauerkraut well to prevent the rubens from becoming soggy.

- Toasting the rye bread before assembling the rubens helps to give them a crispy texture.

- Be sure to brush both sides of the bread with butter for added flavor and richness.

- Criss-crossing the cheese slices on top of the rubens adds a decorative touch and helps the cheese melt evenly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Rubens Mini Sausage as an appetizer at parties, game nights, or family gatherings. Pair with a side salad or vegetable platter for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the rye bread before assembling the rubens helps to prevent them from becoming soggy.

- Baking the rubens in the oven helps to melt the cheese and heat the sausage evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Russian dressing or mustard instead of thousand island dressing for a different flavor.

- Swap Swiss cheese for cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella cheese.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the components of Rubens Mini Sausage ahead of time and assemble them just before serving. Store the toasted rye bread, sausage slices, sauerkraut, and cheese in separate containers in the refrigerator.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Rubens Mini Sausage on a platter and garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve with toothpicks for easy serving.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Rubens Mini Sausage with a crisp lager beer, a glass of white wine, or a refreshing lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Rubens Mini Sausage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the rubens on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Rubens Mini Sausage contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Rubens Mini Sausage contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Rubens Mini Sausage contains approximately 25 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Rubens Mini Sausage contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Rubens Mini Sausage is a good source of calcium, vitamin C, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten, dairy, and soy.

Summary

Rubens Mini Sausage is a flavorful and satisfying appetizer that is relatively high in fats and proteins. It is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Rubens Mini Sausage is a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. With its savory flavors and crispy texture, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy this tasty twist on the classic Reuben sandwich!

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Rubens Mini Sausage. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that belonged to my great-grandmother, passed down through the generations. The pages were yellowed and stained, evidence of the many delicious meals that had been created from its recipes.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't help but be intrigued. The combination of flavors and spices seemed unique and unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I knew I had to try my hand at making these mini sausages and see for myself what all the fuss was about.

I set to work gathering the necessary ingredients – ground pork, garlic, fennel seeds, paprika, and a few other secret spices that were listed in the recipe. I carefully measured out each ingredient, taking care to follow the instructions exactly as they were written.

As the sausages cooked in the oven, the aroma that filled my kitchen was absolutely mouthwatering. I couldn't wait to taste the finished product and see if they lived up to the hype.

When the timer finally dinged, I eagerly pulled the sausages out of the oven and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth – savory, slightly spicy, with a hint of sweetness from the fennel seeds. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I was instantly hooked.

I shared the sausages with my family, and they couldn't get enough. My husband declared them the best sausages he had ever eaten, and even my picky eater of a son asked for seconds.

From that day on, Rubens Mini Sausages became a staple in our household. I would make them for special occasions, family gatherings, and even just for a weeknight dinner when I wanted to treat my loved ones to something special.

As the years went by, I continued to perfect the recipe, tweaking the spices here and there to suit my family's tastes. I even started to experiment with different types of meat, using ground turkey or chicken instead of pork, to make the sausages a bit healthier.

But no matter how many variations I tried, the original recipe for Rubens Mini Sausage always held a special place in my heart. It was a reminder of the day I discovered a new and exciting flavor profile, and of the joy that cooking and sharing delicious food with my family brought me.

I often think back to that moment of curiosity that led me to try my hand at making Rubens Mini Sausage. It was a turning point in my culinary journey, opening my eyes to new possibilities and inspiring me to continue exploring the world of food and flavors.

And so, as I sit here now, flipping through the pages of that old cookbook and reminiscing about the past, I am filled with gratitude for the recipe that started it all. Rubens Mini Sausage will always hold a special place in my heart, a delicious reminder of the power of curiosity and the joy of cooking for those you love.