Easy Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe: Comfort in a Bowl
Reuben soup is a delightful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, combining the same beloved flavors into a creamy and comforting bowl of goodness. Its origins can be traced back to the United States, where the Reuben sandwich gained fame for its hearty combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing, all nestled between two slices of rye bread. This soup adaptation allows you to savor these iconic ingredients in a warm and soothing form, perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a taste of home.
There’s something inherently comforting about a creamy soup. The rich texture envelops you with warmth, making each spoonful a hug in a bowl. Additionally, creamy soups are often quicker and easier to prepare than their broth-based counterparts, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal with minimal effort. In this easy creamy Reuben soup recipe, we harness the familiar flavors of the classic sandwich while simplifying the cooking process, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
In the following sections, readers can expect a straightforward ingredient list, clear cooking directions, and helpful tips to ensure the best outcome. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Reuben sandwiches or trying this flavor profile for the first time, this recipe promises a satisfying experience that’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
What is Reuben Soup?
Reuben soup is a savory and creamy reinterpretation of the iconic Reuben sandwich. While the sandwich is layered between two slices of rye bread, this soup captures all the beloved components in a warm and comforting bowl. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese without the need for bread, allowing you to savor each ingredient in a new and creative way.
The essential elements of Reuben soup mirror those found in the traditional sandwich. At its core, you’ll find tender corned beef, which adds a hearty, meaty flavor; tangy sauerkraut that brings a refreshing crunch; and gooey Swiss cheese that melts into the creamy broth, enhancing the overall richness of the dish. If you’re seeking a filling meal that embodies the comforting essence of the original Reuben sandwich, Reuben soup is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients for Easy Creamy Reuben Soup
Creating this easy creamy Reuben soup requires a selection of key ingredients that mirror those found in the classic sandwich. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
- Main Ingredients:
- Corned beef
- Sauerkraut
- Swiss cheese
- Rye bread (for croutons or garnish)
- Heavy cream
- Spices and Seasonings:
- Caraway seeds
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Black pepper
- Salt
- Liquids:
- Beef broth
- Worcestershire sauce
- Garnish Options:
- Fresh parsley
- Extra cheese
- Sour cream
- Suggestions for Variations:
- Vegetarian options
- Gluten-free substitutes
Directions for Making Easy Creamy Reuben Soup
Making Easy Creamy Reuben Soup is a straightforward process that brings together familiar flavors with minimal fuss. Follow these steps to create a delicious bowl of comfort.
Prep Work
Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the corned beef into bite-sized pieces and dice any additional vegetables you might want to use, such as onions or garlic.
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. If you’re using garlic, add it in the last minute of sautéing to avoid burning it.
Cooking the Soup
Once the base has been prepared, add the chopped corned beef and sauerkraut to the pot, and stir well. Cook for another 3-5 minutes to warm everything through. Next, pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine.
As the soup heats up, add the spices: caraway seeds, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 15 minutes, which will deepen the flavors.
Blending and Creaming
For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth, or transfer it in batches to a countertop blender. If you prefer a chunky soup, you can blend just half of it, leaving some bits of corned beef and sauerkraut intact. Once blended, return the soup to the pot over low heat.
Stir in the heavy cream and Swiss cheese gradually, allowing the cheese to melt completely into the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to taste.
Final Touches
Once the soup is heated through and creamy, it’s time to serve. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, extra cheese, and a dollop of sour cream if desired. For an added crunch, serve with crispy rye bread croutons on top.
Tips for the Perfect Reuben Soup
To ensure that your Easy Creamy Reuben Soup is exceptional, consider the following tips.
Ingredient Quality
The key to a delightful soup lies in the quality of your ingredients. Opt for high-quality corned beef and Swiss cheese, as they significantly enhance the flavor profile of your dish.
Adjusting for Thickness
If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adding a slurry of cornstarch and water to the pot as it simmers. Conversely, you can thin the soup by gradually adding more beef broth or cream until reaching your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Reuben soup pairs exceptionally well with various sides. Consider serving it alongside crispy rye bread or a light green salad for contrast. Chips or sliced pickles can also complement the meal nicely.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if the soup has thickened too much.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Easy Creamy Reuben Soup is rich in flavor and nutrients. Generally, it contains a balanced profile of macronutrients, including protein from the corned beef, carbohydrates from the sauerkraut, and fats from the heavy cream and Swiss cheese. This hearty soup offers comforting flavors similar to a traditional Reuben sandwich while potentially providing health benefits from the main ingredients. However, it’s important to note that the caloric content may vary based on serving sizes and ingredient types used, especially if you opt for full-fat dairy products versus lighter alternatives.
FAQs
Can I make Reuben soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, follow these steps: Sauté the onions and garlic in a skillet, then add them along with the remaining ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the cream and cheese during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Is there a vegetarian version of Reuben soup?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, substitute the corned beef with a plant-based alternative, such as seitan or mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and add more vegetables to create a robust flavor.
How can I make this soup ahead of time?
This soup can be prepared ahead of time and stored in airtight containers. It freezes well, allowing you to make a large batch and portion it out for future meals. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stovetop.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or whole milk. For a non-dairy option, coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk can work, although the flavor will differ slightly.
Can I use different cheeses?
Yes! While Swiss cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with other options like provolone, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a kick. Each cheese will impart its own unique flavor to the soup.
Conclusion
Easy Creamy Reuben Soup is a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of a Reuben sandwich in a hearty bowl of comfort. With its rich texture and savory ingredients, it is sure to become a beloved recipe in your home. Gather your friends and family, and share this delicious dish, inviting everyone to savor the delightful combination of flavors. We encourage you to leave comments and share your experience with this recipe.
Call to Action
Try the Easy Creamy Reuben Soup recipe today and share your results on social media using the hashtag #ReubenSoup. Don’t forget to follow our blog for more delicious recipes and tips! Your culinary adventures await!
Easy Creamy Reuben Soup Recipe
Equipment
- 1 large pot or Dutch oven
- 1 wooden spoon
- 1 set measuring cups and spoons
- 1 can opener
- 1 ladle
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked corned beef, chopped
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional) Optional
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- for garnish fresh parsley, chopped For garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped corned beef and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the drained sauerkraut, heavy cream, caraway seeds (if using), and Dijon mustard. Stir well to combine.
- Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded Swiss cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
