The first time I bit into a Reuben sandwich 20 years ago, I instantly fell in love with it. The perfect combination of sweet, sour and salty flavors is unmatchable. Unfortunately, this love affair didn’t last long—it ended as soon as I learned about the harmful effects of beef on our health and environment. Truth be told, the conventional Reuben sandwich is not the healthiest meal option. Luckily, we don’t need to settle for less than good-for-you and delicious. Today, there are three fantastic versions of this sandwich that are served right here in Boca, and in this blog I will tell you all about them.
Turkey Reuben
If you’re not ready to give up meat yet but want to start eating healthier, then try the turkey Reuben by 4th Generation Market (75 SE 3rd St., 561/338-9920.) You will enjoy a more traditional version of this classic favorite, while eliminating the harmful side effects of beef.
Why it’s better:
- Turkey is lower in fat than beef.
- This turkey is organic, humanely raised and has no growth hormones, antibiotics or steroids.
- Organic Swiss cheese doesn’t have any growth hormones or antibiotics.
- Homemade sauerkraut has gut-friendly probiotics.
- Sprouted bread is easier to digest.
Tempeh Reuben
If you crave the meaty texture but want to go plant-based, try the tempeh Reuben at 4th Generation Market (75 SE 3rd St., 561/338-9920.) It is made with marinated organic tempeh, homemade 1001 Island dressing, homemade sauerkraut and is served on sprouted bread.
Why it is better:
- Tempeh is made from fermented soybeans, which means most soy-based estrogens are destroyed.
- Tempeh has almost as much iron and protein as beef.
- Homemade sauerkraut has gut-friendly probiotics.
- Sprouted bread is easier to digest.
Wild Mushroom Reuben
Finally, if you are looking for the lightest version of the Reuben, then check out the wild mushroom Reuben at Farmer’s Table (1901 N. Military Trail, 561/417-5836.) This sandwich is created with a mix of sautéed mushrooms, melted Gruyere, vegan Thousand Island dressing and homemade sauerkraut and is served on multigrain toast. For your side dish, good-for-you choices include watermelon radish slaw, braised collard greens or a baby green salad.
Why it is better:
- Mushrooms are rich in Vitamin D, which many people are lacking.
- Organic Swiss cheese doesn’t have any growth hormones.
- Homemade sauerkraut has gut-friendly probiotics.
- Delicious side dishes perfectly complete this filling meal.
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About Alina Z.
Alina Z., aka “The Green Goddess,” is a certified holistic health coach, detox specialist and raw-food chef (she conducts occasional classes at Whole Foods in Boca). Prior to moving to Florida, Alina hosted her own TV show in Maryland—“Entertaining A to Z”—for people who didn’t have time to cook but wanted to eat healthy. Catch one of her web episodes at eHow.com, visit Alina’s website at alinaz.com, or follow her on Facebook (facebook.com/CoutureFood) or Twitter (@CoutureFood). The Green Goddess blog runs every other Wednesday at bocamag.com.
