TEMPEH REUBEN SANDWICH RECIPE
This vegetarian tempeh Reuben sandwich is a flavorful twist on the classic deli favorite. Marinated and seared tempeh delivers smoky, savory notes, perfectly complemented by tangy sauerkraut and creamy Reuben sauce. With melted cheese and toasted rye bread tying it all together, this satisfying sandwich is a must-try for vegetarians and Reuben lovers alike!
Tempeh Reuben Sandwich Recipe
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes
Total: 30 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Craving a classic Reuben but looking for a vegetarian option? This tempeh Reuben sandwich delivers all the smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors you love, with a plant-based twist. Easy to make and packed with bold ingredients, it's a satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner!
Kitchen Tools Needed
Measuring Spoons
Measuring Cups
Baking Sheet
Whisk or Fork
Small Bowl
Saucepan
Ingredients
- 8 ounces tempeh
- 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 slices sourdough rye bread
- 1–2 tablespoons Reuben sauce
- 2 slices Swiss cheese, smoked mozzarella cheese
- 1/2–3/4 cup sauerkraut
Reuben Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayo
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar
- Pinch salt and pepper
- Optional: finely minced garlic clove
- Splash Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Press the Tempeh: Slice the tempeh in half widthwise to create 4 thin pieces. Place them in a saucepan, cover with water, and add soy sauce, salt, and smoked paprika. Simmer, covered, for 10 minutes. Drain and pat dry.
Make the Reuben Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayo, ketchup, paprika, lemon juice (or vinegar), salt, pepper, and optional ingredients.
Sear the Tempeh and Melt the Cheese: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Sear the tempeh slices until golden and crispy on each side. Reduce the heat, place cheese slices on top of the tempeh, and cover until the cheese melts. Set aside.
Toast the Bread: Toast the slices of sourdough rye bread to your liking.
Assemble the Sandwich: Spread Reuben sauce on all bread slices. Layer the tempeh, sauerkraut, and the top slice of bread. Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Serving: 1 large sandwich, Calories: 513 kcal, Carbohydrates: 45g, Protein: 35g, Fat: 22g, Saturated fat: 8g, Cholesterol: 26mg, Sodium: 764mg, Fiber: 14g, Sugar: 3g.

Benefits of Tempeh Reuben Sandwich
Plant-Based Protein:
- Tempeh is an excellent source of protein, providing a satisfying and meat-free alternative to traditional corned beef.
Rich in Probiotics:
- Sauerkraut is fermented, adding probiotics to support gut health.
Lower in Saturated Fat:
- Compared to the classic version, this recipe uses tempeh and offers lower saturated fat content.
Packed with Flavor:
- The combination of smoky, tangy, and creamy ingredients makes this sandwich both delicious and satisfying.
This vegetarian tempeh Reuben sandwich is a flavorful and wholesome twist on a deli classic. Packed with plant-based protein, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Reuben sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a satisfying and easy-to-make meal that’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every bite!
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