Indulge in Comfort with Creamy Reuben Soup
Are you craving a hearty and satisfying soup that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than this Creamy Reuben Soup! Inspired by the classic Reuben sandwich, this soup is a delicious twist on a beloved favorite. Imagine tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melty Swiss cheese, all combined in a creamy broth that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re a fan of Reuben sandwiches or simply love a good bowl of soup, this recipe is sure to become a new go-to comfort food. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this mouthwatering soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
Meat:
- 1 pound cooked corned beef, diced
Produce:
- 4 stalks celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon
Canned Goods:
- 4 cups beef stock
- 1 cup sauerkraut
Baking & Spices:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
Bread & Baked Goods:
- 1 (6-ounce) package rye croutons
Dairy:
- 1 cup butter
- 1 quart half-and-half
- 2 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
Instructions:
1. Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Seasonings:
- Stir in the dried tarragon, caraway seeds, seasoned salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and enhance their flavor.
3. Make Roux:
- Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine, creating a thick paste known as a roux. Cook the roux for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, to cook out the raw flour taste.
4. Incorporate Liquid:
- Gradually pour in the beef stock while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens slightly.
5. Add Remaining Ingredients:
- Stir in the diced corned beef and sauerkraut, allowing the flavors to meld together. Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the ingredients to marry and develop a rich flavor.
6. Finish with Dairy:
- Pour in the half-and-half and add the shredded Swiss cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
7. Serve:
- Ladle the creamy Reuben soup into bowls and garnish each serving with a handful of rye croutons for added crunch and flavor.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Make It Vegetarian: Swap the corned beef for diced potatoes or extra vegetables like mushrooms and carrots for a vegetarian version of this soup.
- Russian Dressing Drizzle: For an extra touch of authenticity, drizzle each bowl of soup with a spoonful of Russian dressing before serving.
- Slow Cooker Method: To make this soup in a slow cooker, simply sauté the vegetables and make the roux on the stovetop, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until heated through and creamy.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here are some adjustments to make this Creamy Reuben Soup fit your dietary preferences:
- Low-Carb Thickeners: Replace the all-purpose flour with a low-carb thickener such as almond flour or xanthan gum to achieve a creamy texture without the extra carbs.
- Dairy Substitutes: Use heavy cream or coconut cream in place of the half-and-half, and opt for a keto-friendly cheese like cheddar or Gruyere instead of Swiss cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use leftover corned beef for this recipe? A: Yes, leftover corned beef works perfectly in this soup! Simply dice it up and add it to the soup as directed.
Q: Can I freeze this soup for later? A: While this soup can be frozen, the texture of the dairy may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, store the soup in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Q: Can I use store-bought croutons instead of making my own? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite store-bought rye croutons to save time.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time? A: Yes, this soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
In conclusion, Creamy Reuben Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy nights in or special occasions. With its savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Swiss cheese, this soup is a delightful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a bowl of hearty soup, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Plus, with our keto and low-carb variations, you can enjoy all the deliciousness of Reuben soup while staying true to your dietary goals. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a bowl of pure comfort!
