When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the warm, rich flavors of a Reuben sandwich. But what if you could enjoy all the deliciousness of this classic sandwich in the form of a creamy, hearty soup? Enter the Creamy Reuben Soup, a mouthwatering dish that combines the tangy flavors of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and a creamy broth. It’s the perfect choice for chilly evenings or a hearty lunch. Below, we’ll dive into a step-by-step guide on how to make this irresistible soup that will have your family and friends asking for more.
What is Creamy Reuben Soup?
Creamy Reuben Soup is an innovative spin on the classic Reuben sandwich. While the traditional Reuben is made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing, this soup brings all those ingredients together in a smooth, velvety base. The result is a comforting, flavorful dish that perfectly captures the essence of the sandwich. The soup can be served with crispy croutons, a slice of rye bread, or even a generous sprinkle of shredded Swiss cheese on top for extra creaminess.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: This soup uses a few key ingredients that come together quickly and easily, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a weekend treat.
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy broth creates a rich, savory flavor that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
- Comforting and Hearty: With a creamy texture and hearty ingredients, this soup is the ultimate comfort food, providing warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.
Key Ingredients for Creamy Reuben Soup
Before you start cooking, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need for the Creamy Reuben Soup:
- Corned Beef: The star of the dish. You can use deli-sliced corned beef or leftovers from a roast, shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauerkraut: This fermented cabbage adds a tangy, zesty flavor that balances out the richness of the soup.
- Swiss Cheese: The creamy, mild flavor of Swiss cheese is essential for this soup. It melts beautifully into the broth and enhances the overall creaminess.
- Onions: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the base of the soup.
- Garlic: Minced garlic will provide aromatic richness to the soup.
- Butter: To sauté the vegetables and create a rich base.
- Flour: To thicken the soup and create a creamy texture.
- Chicken Broth: You’ll need low-sodium chicken broth as the base for your soup. It adds flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients.
- Heavy Cream: The secret to achieving that luxurious creamy texture.
- Caraway Seeds (Optional): For a traditional Reuben twist, sprinkle in some caraway seeds for a hint of earthiness.
- Croutons or Rye Bread: For topping, croutons or rye bread are ideal for that authentic Reuben sandwich experience.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by chopping the onions and garlic. Then, slice the corned beef into bite-sized pieces or strips. Drain and rinse the sauerkraut to remove any excess brine. If you’re using rye bread for croutons, cut it into cubes and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and fragrant. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until it becomes aromatic.
Step 3: Make the Roux
Add the flour to the pot and stir constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup and give it a creamy texture. Make sure the flour is well incorporated with the onions and garlic.
Step 4: Add the Broth
Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 5: Stir in the Cream
Once the broth has thickened, reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream. Stir until the soup is smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Add the Corned Beef, Sauerkraut, and Swiss Cheese
Stir in the corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese. Allow the cheese to melt completely into the soup, making it extra creamy and flavorful.
Step 7: Season and Simmer
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and caraway seeds if desired. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 8: Prepare the Croutons
If you’re making croutons, heat a small pan over medium heat and toast the rye bread cubes with a little butter until golden and crispy. Alternatively, you can use store-bought croutons.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a handful of croutons or a sprinkle of shredded Swiss cheese. Serve it with a slice of rye bread on the side for that authentic Reuben experience.
Tips for Perfecting Creamy Reuben Soup
- Adjust the Thickness: If your soup is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, let it simmer a little longer to thicken up.
- Customize the Toppings: While croutons are a classic choice, you can also top the soup with extra Swiss cheese, a drizzle of Thousand Island dressing, or even a few pickle slices for an added touch of flavor.
- Leftover Corned Beef: This soup is a fantastic way to use up leftover corned beef from St. Patrick’s Day or any other time you make a roast. You can freeze any extra soup for later.
- Vegan Version: To make this soup vegetarian, you can swap the corned beef for tempeh or a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy cream and cheese.
Pairing Suggestions
This Creamy Reuben Soup pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of crispy potato wedges. The tanginess of the sauerkraut and the richness of the soup also make it a great match with a cold glass of beer or iced tea.
If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful, and indulgent dish that’s a twist on a beloved classic, Creamy Reuben Soup is the perfect choice. With its rich texture and balanced flavors of corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Whether served on a chilly evening or as a comforting lunch, it’s a bowl of warmth and satisfaction that you won’t soon forget. So, grab your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a hearty serving of this delicious soup today!
