Satisfy your kraut cravings with this vegan reuben roundup. There’s a variety of proteins including seitan, jackfruit, and tofu. Plus, assorted cabbage options from the traditional sauerkraut, to coleslaw and kimchi. There’s even a gluten-free bowl!
If someone asked me to pick the best sandwich, a vegan reuben would be my answer, no question.
Similar to the non-vegan variety, plant-based reubens have a tempting mix of briny cabbage, creamy dressing, and a toothsome filling.
Where they differ, of course, is the “meat” of the sandwich. Vegan varieties contain seitan, tofu, jackfruit, or whatever plant your heart desires. The only limit is your imagination!
I’ve rounded up some of the best vegan reuben sandwiches for flavorful lunches and dinners that you will crave.
For more delectable sandwiches, check out my vegan sandwich roundup.
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Seitan reuben
For a classic option, you just can’t beat the Chicago Diner’s seitan reuben.
Don’t have a trip to the Windy City in your future? That’s no problem! This recipe comes straight from The New Chicago Diner Cookbook.
This renowned sandwich includes thin slices of seitan, which have been marinated in a mix of spices, pickle juice, and beet juice for mouth-puckering flavor.
It’s topped with sauerkraut, vegan Thousand Island dressing, grilled peppers, and onions. Then it’s finished with a generous helping of melty non-dairy cheese on marbled rye.
Reader feedback
“The reuben from Chicago Diner is one of my boyfriend’s favorite foods, so it was so fun trying to recreate it! It tasted so delicious.” – Tara
Jackfruit reuben
For a unique and crave-worthy option, try your hand at this jackfruit reuben. With two dozen 5-star reviews, you know it’s going to be good!
This popular sandwich is packed with corned jackfruit, which is light pink thanks to beets. It’s filled out with crunchy sauerkraut and tangy Thousand Island dressing on toasted marbled rye.
Reader feedback
“I could eat this every day for every meals. I wanted to cry it’s so good. Corned beef/reubens were one of my favorite foods before going vegan. Thank you for this recipe!!” – Kelsey
Jackfruit reuben bowl
For a gluten-free option, this jackfruit reuben bowl is perfect for reuben lovers. It’s a lighter take on a heavy classic.
This deconstructed reuben bowl brings together all of those tantalizing flavors with jackfruit corned beef and sauerkraut on a bed of roasted potatoes.
It’s rounded out with avocado, baby spinach, and cabbage. Finally, a delicious drizzle of vegan Thousand Island dressing ties it all together.
Reader feedback
“I made this last night, and omg, it was great. I want try in sandwich form at some point, but it was fantastic as a bowl.” – Katie
Rachel sandwich (vegan turkey reuben)
There’s mmm in every bite of this vegan Rachel sandwich.
While a traditional reuben includes corned beef and sauerkraut, a Rachel is typically made with turkey and coleslaw. It’s also known as a California or Georgia reuben.
This plant-based version is filled with seitan turkey or seitan chicken, coleslaw, non-dairy cheese, and Thousand Island.
Reader feedback
“Yum! My favorite part of this recipe is the easy, homemade Thousand Island dressing. It adds so much to the sandwich and is great with a lot of other meals, too!” – Shell
Bulgogi tofu and kimchi reuben
Think of this kimchi reuben as Korean reuben fusion.
It’s packed with sweet and savory tofu that’s been marinated in gochujang, tamari, agave syrup, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, and other seasonings. Then its grilled for extra smoky flavor.
The sandwich is finished with vegan kimchi, creamy avocado or vegan smoked gouda, and eggless mayo on toasted marbled rye.
It is a hearty sandwich that doesn’t shy away from flavor. (The ingredients are also terrific in a bulgogi tofu bowl.)
Reader feedback
“I made this last night – they were a hit! I actually used both the smoked Gouda and avocado. Thanks so much for sharing this recipe!” – Mae
Content updated January 28, 2026. Originally published April 7, 2015.
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