Reuben Soup

A creamy and comforting Reuben Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion. This unique twist on a classic sandwich brings together the rich flavors of corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and gooey Swiss cheese into a delightful soup. Ideal for warming up chilly days or impressing guests at a dinner party, this Reuben Soup is both satisfying and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious soup that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of beef broth, cream, and Swiss cheese creates a creamy texture that is both comforting and indulgent.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a hearty lunch or dinner option, this soup can also be served at gatherings or as part of a cozy family meal.
• Hearty & Filling: Packed with protein from corned beef and nutrients from potatoes and sauerkraut, this soup is sure to satisfy your hunger.
• Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen after sitting in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here are the key tools you will need to prepare your Reuben Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Measuring Cups
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Pot: Essential for simmering all ingredients together evenly without splattering.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while ensuring even mixing.
• Measuring Cups: Guarantees accurate ingredient proportions for consistent results each time.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, enhancing your preparation speed.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth

For the Main Ingredients

• 1 cup sauerkraut, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup cooked corned beef, diced
• 1 cup diced potatoes

For Flavoring

• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

For Creaminess

• 1 cup heavy cream

To Finish

• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Reuben Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Simmer the Base

Add the beef broth to the pot and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the diced potatoes, sauerkraut, corned beef, caraway seeds, and thyme. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Cream It Up

Lower the heat to a gentle setting. Stir in the heavy cream and Swiss cheese, mixing until the cheese is fully melted. This step gives your Reuben Soup its rich and creamy quality.

Step 4: Adjust Seasonings

Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This ensures every bowl is perfectly flavored.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Serve the soup in bowls garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a bright finish. Enjoy immediately while it’s warm!

This Reuben Soup combines comforting textures with satisfying flavors that are sure to please everyone at your table!

How to Serve Reuben Soup

Reuben Soup is a delightful dish that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. Here are some creative ways to serve this creamy soup for a cozy meal experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Pair your Reuben Soup with fresh, crusty bread for dipping. Sourdough or rye bread works particularly well, enhancing the flavors of the soup.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Add a sprinkle of shredded Swiss cheese on top just before serving. This melts slightly and adds an extra layer of creaminess to each bowl.

Garnished with Pickles

• Serve with a side of pickle slices for a tangy contrast. Dill pickles complement the flavors of the soup beautifully.

Accompanied by a Side Salad

• A light green salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup. Consider mixing greens like arugula or spinach for freshness.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun presentation, serve Reuben Soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This not only looks appealing but also adds to the meal as you can eat the bowl afterward.

How to Perfect Reuben Soup

To make your Reuben Soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients enhance your soup’s flavor and texture, especially for the beef and cheese.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal seasoning.

• Blend for Creaminess: For an extra smooth texture, blend part of the soup before adding cream and cheese.

• Let it Simmer: Allowing your soup to simmer longer can deepen its flavors, so don’t rush this step.

• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add other herbs like dill or parsley for added freshness and aroma.

Best Side Dishes for Reuben Soup

Reuben Soup pairs well with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted garlic bread offers a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of the soup.
3. Potato Chips: The salty crunch of potato chips provides an enjoyable textural contrast.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and nutrition to your meal.
5. Cheese-Stuffed Pretzels: Soft pretzels stuffed with cheese make a fun and delicious side option.
6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with vinegar dressing brightens up your plate and adds a crisp bite.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins pair nicely, offering a sweet counterpoint to savory flavors.
8. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate after enjoying the hearty soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Reuben Soup, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the onion and garlic: These aromatics add depth to your soup. Always sauté them until fragrant for the best flavor.
• Not rinsing sauerkraut: Rinsing helps reduce excess saltiness. Be sure to rinse and drain your sauerkraut before adding it.
• Overcooking the potatoes: They should be tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on them while simmering to achieve the right texture.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is the soup’s base flavor. Use a rich beef broth for a more satisfying taste.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your soup before serving. Add salt and pepper as needed to enhance the overall flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Reuben Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Reuben Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Reuben Soup?

Reuben Soup is a creamy dish inspired by the classic Reuben sandwich, featuring beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese combined into a comforting soup.

How can I make Reuben Soup vegetarian?

You can substitute corned beef with diced mushrooms or tempeh for a plant-based option while maintaining flavor with vegetable broth.

Can I use other cheeses in Reuben Soup?

Yes! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can try Gruyère or provolone for different flavors and textures.

How do I thicken my Reuben Soup?

To thicken your soup, you can mix cornstarch with water or add more potatoes. Let it simmer longer until it reaches your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

Reuben Soup offers a delightful mix of flavors that’s both creamy and hearty. This versatile recipe allows for customization with ingredients like different cheeses or vegetables. Try it today—you won’t be disappointed!