Reuben Soup

A creamy and comforting Reuben Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion, from cozy weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. This soup showcases the classic flavors of a traditional Reuben sandwich, bringing together hearty ingredients like corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and rich Swiss cheese into a warm, delicious bowl. It’s not just about flavor; the smooth texture makes it immensely satisfying, while the ease of preparation ensures you can whip it up in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This soup takes only 40 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese creates a depth of flavor that will impress your family and friends.
• Comforting Texture: The creamy base provides a soothing mouthfeel that is perfect for colder days or when you need a little comfort food.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with crusty bread for dipping at lunch or dinner.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to adjust ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools for making a fantastic Reuben Soup. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This is crucial for simmering your soup evenly without spilling. It allows enough space for all ingredients to blend beautifully.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while mixing flavors thoroughly.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accuracy in ingredient amounts, which is key for achieving the perfect taste in your soup.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Soup

• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup sauerkraut, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup cooked corned beef, diced
• 1 cup diced potatoes
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

For Creaminess

• 1 cup heavy cream

For Flavoring

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Reuben Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic:
1. Cook until the onion is soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Next, add the beef broth:
1. Bring to a gentle simmer.
2. Stir in diced potatoes, sauerkraut, corned beef, caraway seeds, and thyme.
3. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Add Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat:
1. Stir in heavy cream and Swiss cheese.
2. Mix until cheese is fully melted and soup is rich and creamy.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Taste your soup:
1. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
2. Serve in bowls garnished with freshly chopped parsley.

Enjoy immediately as a deliciously comforting meal!

How to Serve Reuben Soup

Serving Reuben Soup is all about enhancing its comforting flavors and textures. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly night or serving it at a gathering, these suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a touch of color and freshness.
• Croutons: Add crispy croutons for extra crunch and texture contrast.

Pair with Bread

• Rye Bread: Serve alongside slices of hearty rye bread to complement the soup’s flavors.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread makes a delicious side that adds flavor and warmth.

Serve with a Salad

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens can balance the richness of the soup.
• Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tang of coleslaw provide a refreshing complement.

How to Perfect Reuben Soup

To make your Reuben Soup truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips. They will help you achieve the best flavors and textures.

• Use Quality Broth: Opt for homemade or high-quality beef broth for deeper flavor.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow the soup to simmer properly; this helps meld the flavors beautifully.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste frequently as you season, adding salt and pepper to enhance but not overpower.
• Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh thyme or dill right at the end can brighten up the soup’s taste.

Best Side Dishes for Reuben Soup

Enjoying Reuben Soup is even better when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Cheesy Garlic Bread: This buttery, garlic-infused bread pairs perfectly with creamy soup.
2. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs add a satisfying crunch.
3. Roasted Veggies: A medley of roasted vegetables brings color and nutrition to your meal.
4. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with grains, beans, or veggies for a hearty addition.
5. Pickles: Tangy pickles cut through the richness of the soup while adding crunch.
6. Apple Slaw: A sweet-tart apple slaw provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Reuben Soup, it’s easy to run into common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the onion and garlic can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always take time to soften them before adding other ingredients.
• Using unseasoned broth: If you use low-quality or unseasoned beef broth, your soup may lack depth. Choose a rich, flavorful broth for the best results.
• Overcooking the potatoes: Cooking potatoes too long can make them mushy. Add them early but keep an eye on them; they should be tender but still hold their shape.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Many forget to taste and adjust seasonings at the end. Always check your soup’s flavor profile before serving, adding salt and pepper as needed.
• Ignoring cheese melting tips: Adding cold cheese can cause clumping. Make sure to stir in the Swiss cheese gradually while keeping the soup warm but not boiling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Reuben Soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Reuben Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Reuben Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe container. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until fully warmed, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Reuben Soup?

Reuben Soup is a creamy and hearty dish inspired by the classic Reuben sandwich. It features flavors of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese.

Can I make Reuben Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute corned beef with cooked lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian version of Reuben Soup.

How can I customize my Reuben Soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or celery for added nutrition and flavor. You can also adjust spices according to your preference.

How long does it take to prepare Reuben Soup?

This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, making it an excellent option for quick weeknight dinners.

Is there a way to make this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure that all ingredients used, including broth and any thickening agents (if needed), are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Reuben Soup is a creamy delight that brings together comforting flavors in one bowl. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients or spices according to your taste. Try this recipe today; it’s perfect for any dinner table!