Reuben Steak Skewers with Sauerkraut

Introduction

When I first made Reuben Steak Skewers with Sauerkraut, I wasn’t sure how my family would react. The combination of juicy minute steaks with tangy sauerkraut and a flavorful Russian dressing was a bit of a departure from our usual meals. To my delight, everyone loved it! The skewers were a hit, with the steak being perfectly seasoned and the sauerkraut adding that distinct zesty crunch. It quickly became a favorite in our household, perfect for summer barbecues or a cozy indoor dinner. Here’s how you can recreate this delicious dish at home!

Ingredients

For the Steak:

• 700g minute steaks
• 2 teaspoons sea salt flakes
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon dark brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard seeds
• ½ teaspoon onion powder

For the Sauerkraut:

• 4-6 heaped tablespoons sauerkraut
• 4 gherkins

For the Russian Dressing:

• 100g mayonnaise
• 30g tomato ketchup
• 1 teaspoon horseradish sauce (dairy-free if needed)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 small banana shallot, finely chopped
• 30g gherkins, finely chopped
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Everything Bagel Seasoning:

• 2 teaspoons white sesame seeds
• 1 teaspoon onion seeds
• 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
• ½ teaspoon onion granules

Instructions

1. Prepare Steak: Begin by bashing the minute steaks out as thinly as possible. Cut the flattened steak into 3cm wide strips against the grain. In a pestle and mortar, combine the sea salt, black peppercorns, dark brown sugar, coriander seeds, yellow mustard seeds, and onion powder. Crush the mixture roughly and rub it onto the beef strips. Let the steak cure for at least 1 hour or, for best results, overnight in the fridge.
2. Make Russian Dressing: In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, tomato ketchup, horseradish sauce, Worcestershire sauce, finely chopped banana shallot, and gherkins. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside.
3. Make Everything Bagel Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the white sesame seeds, onion seeds, poppy seeds, and onion granules. Mix well and set aside.
4. Cook Steak: Thread the seasoned beef onto skewers, arranging them in a concertina fashion. Preheat your barbecue and cook the skewers on the hottest part for about 1 minute on each side. The steak should be nicely seared but still juicy. Once cooked, let them rest for a couple of minutes.
5. Serve: Arrange the skewers on a platter with sauerkraut and gherkins. Sprinkle the everything bagel seasoning over the skewers and serve with the Russian dressing on the side.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 500 calories

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating time)
• Active Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Place skewers on a serving platter with a bed of sauerkraut.
• Offer the Russian dressing in a small bowl on the side.
• Garnish with extra gherkins for a crunchy side.
• Serve with crusty bread or rolls to complement the flavors.
• Pair with a light salad for a refreshing contrast.

Additional Tips

1. Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor, consider marinating the steaks overnight.
2. Choose Quality Meat: Use high-quality minute steaks for better taste and tenderness.
3. Grill to Perfection: Keep an eye on the skewers while grilling to avoid overcooking.
4. Customize the Dressing: Adjust the ingredients in the Russian dressing to suit your taste preferences.
5. Add Vegetables: Feel free to add bell peppers or onions to the skewers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the steak with firm tofu or portobello mushrooms for a meatless version.
• Spicy Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the Russian dressing for a spicy twist.
• Different Sauerkraut: Use flavored sauerkraut, like garlic or dill, to enhance the taste.
• Herb Seasoning: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or dill into the everything bagel seasoning.
• Skewered Veggies: Add cherry tomatoes or zucchini slices to the skewers for a colorful presentation.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with potato wedges or sweet potato fries for a hearty meal.
• Pair with a crisp coleslaw for a refreshing side dish.
• Enjoy with a light beer or a crisp white wine to complement the flavors.
• Offer a selection of mustards alongside the Russian dressing for variety.
• For a complete meal, include a warm bread basket with a variety of breads.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: The steak can be marinated and frozen before cooking. Just thaw and cook when ready.
• Storage: Leftover cooked skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other cuts of steak?

• Yes, other tender cuts like flank steak or sirloin can be used.

1. How do I know when the steak is done?

• Cook until the steak reaches an internal temperature of 55-60°C (130-140°F) for medium-rare.

1. What can I substitute for horseradish sauce?

• You can use prepared mustard or omit it if you prefer.

1. Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

• Yes, just ensure the Worcestershire sauce and mayonnaise are gluten-free.

1. Can I grill these skewers indoors?

• Yes, you can use a grill pan or broiler if you don’t have outdoor grilling options.

1. What if I don’t have a mortar and pestle?

• You can use a spice grinder or finely chop the spices with a knife.

1. How long can I marinate the steak?

• Marinate for at least 1 hour, but up to 24 hours for best flavor.

1. Can I prepare the dressing in advance?

• Yes, the Russian dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

1. How can I make this dish spicier?

• Add sliced jalapeños to the skewers or more horseradish sauce in the dressing.

1. What can I serve as a side dish?
   • Consider serving with coleslaw, potato salad, or grilled vegetables.

Conclusion

Reuben Steak Skewers with Sauerkraut is a delightful fusion of flavors that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. The combination of perfectly seasoned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Russian dressing creates a memorable meal that’s sure to impress family and friends. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, this recipe brings a unique twist to traditional barbecue fare. Enjoy these skewers at your next gathering and watch them disappear off the platter!

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