Description
Reuben Fritters are crispy, golden-brown bite-sized treats packed with the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich—corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and tangy mustard. These easy-to-make fritters are first formed, breaded, and then deep-fried to perfection, making them perfect appetizers or party snacks served with a side of Thousand Island dressing or spicy mustard for dipping.
Ingredients
Scale
Fritter Mixture
- 1 cup (150g) cooked corned beef, finely chopped
- 1 cup (115g) Swiss cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup (120g) sauerkraut, drained and squeezed dry
- 1/4 cup (60g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
Breading
- 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)
For Frying and Serving
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 inches deep)
- Thousand Island dressing or spicy mustard, for dipping
Instructions
- Prepare the fritter mixture: In a large bowl, combine finely chopped cooked corned beef, shredded Swiss cheese, drained and squeezed sauerkraut, softened cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Mix thoroughly until well combined and combined evenly.
- Form the fritters: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the mixture and roll them into small, even balls. Arrange the formed fritters on a baking sheet and place in the freezer for 20-30 minutes to firm up, making them easier to bread and fry without falling apart.
- Bread the fritters: Set up a breading station with three separate bowls—one filled with all-purpose flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with breadcrumbs (preferably Panko). Take each chilled fritter, coat it first lightly in the flour, then dip it thoroughly into the beaten eggs, and finally press and coat evenly with breadcrumbs to cover all sides.
- Fry the fritters: Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep pan or skillet and heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the breaded fritters in batches, avoiding overcrowding, for 2-3 minutes each batch or until they turn golden brown and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the Reuben fritters hot and crispy with Thousand Island dressing or spicy mustard on the side for dipping to complement the savory, tangy flavors.
Notes
- Freezing the fritters before breading helps them hold their shape during frying.
- Using Panko breadcrumbs enhances the crispiness of the exterior.
- Maintain oil temperature at 350°F for even frying and to prevent sogginess.
- Serve immediately for best texture, though fritters can be kept warm in a low oven.
- Leftover fritters can be reheated in an air fryer or oven to retain crispness.
