Growing up, Crispy Reuben Balls were always a family favorite in our household. I can still vividly remember the delicious aroma wafting through the kitchen as my mom would prepare them for our Sunday game day gatherings. The crispy, golden-brown exterior and the tantalizing blend of corned beef, sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese – it was a flavor explosion in every bite. Even as a kid, I’d eagerly await the moment when I could pop those Crispy Reuben Balls into my mouth, savoring the perfect balance of textures and flavors. To this day, whenever I make a batch, it instantly transports me back to those cozy, laughter-filled afternoons with my family. Crispy Reuben Balls have become a true comfort food staple, and I’m excited to share my tried-and-true recipe with you.
Why This Crispy Reuben Balls Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Crispy Reuben Balls
What sets this Crispy Reuben Balls recipe apart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key is in the careful layering of the ingredients and the unique frying technique that ensures a delightfully crispy exterior while keeping the interior perfectly moist and flavorful. With just the right amount of spices and a special sauce that ties it all together, these Crispy Reuben Balls are sure to become a new favorite in your household.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- Corned beef: The star of the show, this savory and tender corned beef is the foundation of the Crispy Reuben Balls.
- Sauerkraut: Providing a tangy and slightly sour contrast, the sauerkraut adds an essential element to the overall flavor profile.
- Swiss cheese: Melted Swiss cheese oozes into every bite, creating a luxurious, creamy texture.
- Breadcrumbs: A crucial component that gives the Crispy Reuben Balls their signature crunchy coating.
- Eggs: Binding the ingredients together and helping the breadcrumbs adhere to the balls.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle kick of flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- Worcestershire sauce: Elevates the overall taste with its savory and umami notes.
Step-by-Step Crispy Reuben Balls Instructions
Preparing Your Crispy Reuben Balls
Get ready to create a batch of irresistible Crispy Reuben Balls! This recipe takes just 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. You’ll need a few simple tools, including a food processor, a baking sheet, and a deep-frying setup.
1- In a food processor, combine the corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese until the mixture is well blended but still has some texture.
2- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce to create the binding sauce.
3- Gently fold the egg mixture into the corned beef mixture until everything is evenly incorporated.
4- Scoop the mixture by the tablespoonful and roll it into bite-sized balls, placing them on a baking sheet as you go.
5- In a shallow bowl, pour in the breadcrumbs. One by one, roll the balls in the breadcrumbs, making sure they are evenly coated.
6- Carefully lower the breaded balls into the hot oil (350°F) and fry for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Success
The secret to perfectly crispy Reuben balls is in the frying technique. Make sure to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F to ensure an even, golden-brown crust. Additionally, be gentle when rolling the balls in the breadcrumbs to avoid the coating falling off during frying.
Serving and Storing Your Crispy Reuben Balls
Perfect Pairings for Crispy Reuben Balls
Crispy Reuben Balls are the ultimate game day or party appetizer. Serve them alongside a tangy Thousand Island dressing for dipping, or pair them with a refreshing lager or crisp white wine. For a heartier meal, enjoy the Crispy Reuben Balls as part of a Reuben sandwich or alongside a fresh salad.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Crispy Reuben Balls are best enjoyed fresh and hot, but they can be made in advance. Once cooled, store the cooked balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy. For longer-term storage, the uncooked balls can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frying.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Crispy Reuben Balls
Creative Crispy Reuben Balls Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different variations of the Crispy Reuben Balls. For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the mixture. You can also switch up the cheese, using cheddar or Gruyère instead of Swiss. And for a festive touch, roll the balls in panko breadcrumbs or add a sprinkle of caraway seeds to the coating.
Making Crispy Reuben Balls Diet-Friendly
To make these Crispy Reuben Balls more diet-friendly, you can opt for leaner corned beef and swap the traditional breadcrumbs for gluten-free or low-carb alternatives. For a vegan version, use plant-based “corned beef” and vegan cheese. The sauerkraut and Dijon mustard will still provide plenty of flavor, and you can bake the balls instead of frying for a healthier option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use pre-cooked corned beef instead of making it from scratch?
A: Absolutely! Using pre-cooked corned beef is a great time-saving option. Just make sure to chop or shred it into small pieces before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Q: How can I ensure the Crispy Reuben Balls don’t fall apart during frying?
A: The key is to thoroughly mix the egg mixture into the corned beef and sauerkraut blend. This helps bind the ingredients together and prevents the balls from falling apart. Additionally, be gentle when rolling the balls in the breadcrumbs to avoid damaging the coating.
Q: Can I make the Crispy Reuben Balls ahead of time and reheat them later?
A: Yes, you can absolutely make the Crispy Reuben Balls in advance. Once cooked, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until hot and crispy.
Q: How many Crispy Reuben Balls does this recipe make?
A: This recipe yields approximately 20-24 bite-sized Crispy Reuben Balls, depending on how large you shape them. The serving size can vary depending on whether they’re being served as an appetizer or a main dish.
Q: What should I do if the Crispy Reuben Balls don’t get crispy enough?
A: If the balls aren’t as crispy as you’d like, try increasing the frying temperature to 375°F and frying them for a bit longer, about 3-4 minutes. Make sure the oil is at the right temperature before adding the balls, and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming rather than crisping.
Crispy Reuben Balls
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: 24 balls
Description
Crispy Reuben Balls are a delightful appetizer that combines the savory flavors of a Reuben sandwich in a bite-sized, fried form. These crispy, golden-brown bites are filled with corned beef, sauerkraut, and melted Swiss cheese, making them the perfect snack for game days, parties, or any time you’re craving a taste of comfort.
Ingredients
– 1 pound corned beef, chopped
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
Instructions
1. – In a large bowl, combine the chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, breadcrumbs, beaten eggs, caraway seeds, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. – Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, form the mixture into 1-inch balls.
3. – In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2-3 inches of oil to 350°F.
4. – Working in batches, carefully drop the Reuben balls into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. – Remove the fried balls from the oil using a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
6. – Serve the Crispy Reuben Balls warm, with Thousand Island dressing for dipping.
Notes
– For a spicier variation, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
– If the balls are falling apart, try adding an extra egg or a tablespoon of breadcrumbs to the mixture.
– Leftover Crispy Reuben Balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American, Irish
Conclusion
Crispy Reuben Balls are a true delight, combining the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich in a fun, bite-sized package. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can bring the taste of a deli-style Reuben right to your own kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, a holiday party, or simply craving a comforting snack, these Crispy Reuben Balls are sure to be a hit. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and get ready to create a batch of these irresistible treats that will have your family and friends begging for more. Bon appétit!
