Warm up with this Creamy Reuben Soup Delight, a hearty blend of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and rich creaminess in every spoonful! Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, this soup is a delightful twist on the traditional Reuben sandwich. Its creamy texture and flavorful ingredients make it a standout dish for all occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: This soup combines savory corned beef and tangy sauerkraut for an unforgettable taste.
- Quick Prep Time: With only 10 minutes of prep, you can have this soup ready in no time.
- Comforting Warmth: Ideal for chilly days, each bowl offers warmth and satisfaction.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it alone or pair it with toasted rye bread for extra crunch.
- Easy to Customize: Adjust ingredients based on your preferences for a personal touch.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing space for all ingredients.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient amounts for perfect flavor balance.
Ingredients
For the Base
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced into ½” pieces
- 2 large cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
For the Soup
- 5 cups (40 ounces) chicken broth
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 3 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced into ½” pieces (about 4 cups)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon pickling spices
- ¼ teaspoon caraway seeds
- 2 bay leaves
For the Creamy Finish
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Kosher salt to taste (only if needed)
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups cooked corned beef, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup Swiss cheese, shredded
- Toasted rye bread (optional, for serving)
How to Make Creamy Reuben Soup Delight
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for an additional minute.
Step 2: Create the Base
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir to coat evenly. Cook the mixture for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently to remove the raw flour taste.
Step 3: Add Liquid and Flavorings
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. Add the potatoes, sauerkraut, Worcestershire sauce, pickling spices, caraway seeds, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to simmer. Cook for 12–15 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Remove bay leaves and any large pieces of pickling spices.
Step 5: Finish the Soup
Stir in the heavy cream then add chopped corned beef. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle soup into bowls and sprinkle each serving with shredded Swiss cheese. Optionally serve with toasted rye bread on the side for dipping. Enjoy your warm and creamy Reuben soup!
How to Serve Creamy Reuben Soup Delight
Serving your Creamy Reuben Soup Delight can elevate the dining experience and make it feel special. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy this hearty soup.
With a Side of Bread
- Toasted Rye Bread: Perfect for dipping, the nutty flavor complements the creamy soup.
- Crusty Baguette: Freshly baked baguette slices provide a delightful crunch with every bite.
Garnish Ideas
- Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Extra Swiss Cheese: Add more shredded cheese right before serving for extra creaminess.
Pairing with Salads
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and complements the flavors in the soup.
How to Perfect Creamy Reuben Soup Delight
Achieving the perfect Creamy Reuben Soup Delight requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking process.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality broth for better flavor.
- Control the Heat: Simmer gently to avoid overcooking the potatoes; they should be tender but not mushy.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld flavors together.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Reuben Soup Delight
Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Reuben Soup Delight can create a complete meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Mixed Green Salad: A light mix of greens dressed in vinaigrette contrasts nicely with the richness of the soup.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs add a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy soup.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread offers a buttery crunch that pairs wonderfully with each spoonful.
- Pickles: A side of dill pickles brings acidity, balancing out the creaminess of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide color, flavor, and nutrition to your meal.
- Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can be a hearty addition that complements the dish perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Creamy Reuben Soup Delight from good to great.
- Skipping the Sauté Step: Failing to sauté the onions and garlic properly can result in a flat flavor. Always take the time to cook them until softened.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold broth or cream can shock the soup, affecting texture. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before adding.
- Not Tasting During Cooking: Forgetting to taste as you go can lead to seasoning issues. Always sample your soup before serving to adjust flavors.
- Overcooking Potatoes: Cooking potatoes too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on them and remove from heat once tender for the best texture.
- Ignoring Leftover Storage: Storing soup improperly leads to spoilage. Use airtight containers and label them with dates for easy tracking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it to avoid condensation.
Freezing Creamy Reuben Soup Delight
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.
Reheating Creamy Reuben Soup Delight
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, for about 2-3 minutes or until steaming. Stir halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat and stir frequently until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Reuben Soup Delight .
Can I make Creamy Reuben Soup Delight vegetarian?
You can substitute corned beef with roasted vegetables or mushrooms for a vegetarian version!
What can I serve with Creamy Reuben Soup Delight ?
This soup pairs well with toasted rye bread or crusty rolls for dipping.
How do I enhance the flavor of my Creamy Reuben Soup Delight ?
Adding more spices like dill or garlic powder can elevate its taste. Experiment based on your preferences!
Can I use a slow cooker for Creamy Reuben Soup Delight ?
Yes! You can cook it on low for about 6 hours or high for 3 hours after sautéing the aromatics.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Reuben Soup Delight is perfect for chilly days and offers a warm, hearty meal that everyone will enjoy. Feel free to customize it by adding more vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Give this comforting recipe a try today!