Reuben soup
Reuben soup is a delightful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich. This hearty and flavorful soup combines the rich flavors of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and a creamy base, all topped with a hint of rye bread for that authentic Reuben taste. Perfect for a cozy meal, this soup is easy to prepare and sure to satisfy.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Intensity Level
- Difficulty: Easy
- Skill Level: Beginner
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz) sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
- 1 pound cooked corned beef, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1 cup rye bread, cubed (for croutons)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
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Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
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Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Ingredients
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Combine Ingredients: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Add Sauerkraut and Corned Beef: Stir in the drained sauerkraut and chopped corned beef. Mix well to combine.
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Season the Soup: Add the Worcestershire sauce, caraway seeds (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Make it Creamy
- Stir in the Cream: Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Allow the soup to heat through but do not let it boil.
Step 4: Prepare the Rye Croutons
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Toast the Rye Bread: While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a baking sheet, spread the cubed rye bread in a single layer. You can drizzle a little olive oil over the bread for added flavor.
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Bake the Croutons: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Step 5: Serve
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Ladle the Soup: Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls.
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Add Toppings: Top each bowl with a generous amount of shredded Swiss cheese and a handful of rye croutons. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
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Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy the comforting, hearty flavors of Reuben soup!
Tips for Perfect Reuben Soup
- Corned Beef: You can use leftover corned beef from a previous meal or purchase pre-cooked corned beef from the deli for convenience.
- Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with milk or a non-dairy alternative, though the soup may be less rich.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or celery for added nutrition and flavor.
- Store Leftovers: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 900mg
Nutritional Breakdown
- Calories: Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, making it a hearty meal option.
- Protein: With 20 grams of protein, this soup is filling and satisfying, thanks to the corned beef and cheese.
- Carbohydrates: The carbohydrates come primarily from the sauerkraut and rye bread, providing energy.
- Fats: The heavy cream and cheese contribute to the fat content, providing richness and flavor.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The soup provides essential vitamins and minerals, particularly from the onions and sauerkraut.
Conclusion
Reuben soup is a comforting and delicious dish that captures the essence of a classic Reuben sandwich in a warm, hearty bowl. It’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you’re craving something cozy and satisfying. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Gather your ingredients and enjoy this delightful twist on a classic
