Rachel Sandwich Recipe

Looking for a delicious, comforting sandwich? Try this Rachel Sandwich recipe, a mouthwatering variation of the classic Reuben. Made with rye bread, Swiss cheese, and a delicious creamy coleslaw with sliced turkey, all topped with a homemade Thousand Island dressing, this sandwich delivers a perfect blend of crispy, creamy, and savory flavors. Whether you’re craving a satisfying lunch or a tasty dinner, this easy-to-make sandwich is a must-try!

Ingredients:

Thousand Island Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons grated onion
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
• A pinch of paprika
• A pinch of salt

Rachel Sandwich:

• 8 slices rye bread
• 8 slices Swiss cheese
• 1 cup creamy coleslaw
• 1 lb sliced turkey (or more, based on preference)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

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Instructions:

1. Make the Thousand Island Dressing: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, grated onion, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, paprika, and salt. Stir until fully mixed.
2. Assemble the Sandwich:
   • Place a slice of Swiss cheese on each piece of rye bread.
   • Spread coleslaw evenly on half of the slices of bread, and layer turkey on the other half.
   • Drizzle the Thousand Island dressing over the turkey and cover with the coleslaw slices to form sandwiches.
3. Cook the Sandwiches:
   • Spread butter on the top of each sandwich.
   • Heat a pan over medium-low heat and place the sandwiches, butter side down.
   • Butter the other side of the sandwich while cooking. Cover loosely with aluminum foil.
   • Cook until the bottom is golden brown, then flip and cook the other side until golden and the cheese is melted.
4. Serve: Once the sandwich is heated through and the cheese has melted, remove from the pan and serve warm.

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Tips

• Keep the heat low: Cooking over medium-low heat ensures the bread gets golden and crispy without burning while giving the cheese time to melt.
• Customize your dressing: Feel free to adjust the amount of relish or ketchup based on your taste preferences.
• Use fresh coleslaw: For the best texture and flavor, make sure your coleslaw is fresh and not too watery.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Meat Substitute: You can use pastrami or ham instead of turkey for a different take on the classic Rachel sandwich.
• Cheese: Swap Swiss cheese for cheddar or provolone for a different flavor.
• Bread: If you’re not a fan of rye, you can use sourdough or any hearty bread you prefer.
• Coleslaw: For a lighter version, try a vinegar-based coleslaw or use a lettuce mix.

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FAQs

Can I use store-bought coleslaw? Yes, store-bought coleslaw can work perfectly, but homemade coleslaw offers the freshest taste.

Can I make the Thousand Island dressing ahead of time? Absolutely! You can make the dressing a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy? Make sure the coleslaw is well-drained before using it in the sandwich, and cook the sandwich right after assembling it to keep the bread crispy.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crispy pickles on the side for an extra tangy crunch.
• Pair with a light soup, like tomato basil or chicken noodle, for a satisfying meal.
• Add a side of crispy fries or sweet potato fries for a complete comfort food experience.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Rachel Sandwich combines the perfect balance of crispy rye bread, melted Swiss cheese, savory turkey, and tangy Thousand Island dressing. It’s a delightful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich and offers a satisfying mix of creamy coleslaw and tender turkey. Whether for lunch or dinner, this sandwich is a comforting and flavorful choice that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy your cravings.