Introduction
Are you ready to take your taste buds on a delightful adventure? These Reuben Balls are a scrumptious twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, transforming all the beloved flavors into bite-sized delights! Each crispy, golden ball is packed with savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melty Swiss cheese, making them the perfect appetizer for parties or a cozy night in. Paired with a Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce, they’re not just a snack; they’re a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients
- 1 pound corned beef, chopped
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
For the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon horseradish
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped corned beef, sauerkraut, shredded Swiss cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Make sure they are well-packed for frying!
- In a deep fryer or a heavy skillet, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be hot enough so that the balls sizzle when they hit the surface.
- Carefully place the Reuben balls in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them until they are a beautiful golden brown, about 4-5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- While the Reuben balls are draining, prepare your dipping sauce. In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, horseradish, hot sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Serve the fried Reuben balls warm with the Spicy Thousand Island Dipping Sauce on the side, and enjoy!
Notes or Tips
- For extra crunch, consider double breading the balls by dipping them in an egg wash and then in breadcrumbs again before frying.
- Feel free to tweak the spices in the dipping sauce to suit your taste—add more hot sauce if you like it spicier!
- These Reuben Balls can be prepared ahead of time and frozen before frying. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.
Cooking Techniques
Frying is a fantastic way to achieve that crispy exterior while keeping the insides warm and flavorful. If you don’t have a deep fryer, a heavy skillet works wonderfully. Just make sure to maintain the oil temperature for even cooking. You can also experiment with baking these balls for a lighter version—simply place them on a baking sheet, spray with cooking spray, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
FAQ
Can I use leftovers to make Reuben Balls?
Absolutely! This recipe is a fantastic way to use leftover corned beef and sauerkraut from St. Patrick’s Day or any celebratory meal.
What can I serve with the Reuben Balls?
These delightful bites pair wonderfully with light salads, pickles, or even a side of coleslaw for extra crunch.
Conclusion
These Reuben Balls with their crispy exterior and bursting flavor are sure to impress your family and friends. Easy to make and even easier to devour, they’re a wonderful addition to any gathering or a fun snack for the family! So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and indulge in the deliciousness of these fantastic little treats. Happy cooking!