Creamy Reuben Soup: A Hearty Delight for Any Occasion

If you’re a fan of the classic Reuben sandwich, then get ready to take your love for this iconic dish to the next level with our Creamy Reuben Soup recipe! This hearty and flavorful soup combines all the delicious elements of a Reuben sandwich into a creamy and comforting bowl of goodness. From tender corned beef to tangy sauerkraut, every spoonful of this soup is packed with mouthwatering flavor. Whether you’re serving it up for lunch or dinner, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings and warm you up from the inside out. So let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this irresistible dish!

Ingredients:

1 (32 oz.) carton low-sodium chicken or beef stock
1 pound cooked corned beef or pastrami, diced, fat removed
1 (8 oz.) package sauerkraut, rinsed and drained
1 yellow onion, chopped
4 carrots, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon oregano
1 bay leaf
1/3 cup cold water
1/4 cup cornstarch
1 cup heavy cream
1 (12 oz.) package Swiss cheese, sliced
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

For the Croutons:

6 slices marbled rye bread
2-3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil or butter, melted
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Croutons:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the marbled rye bread into cubes and place them on a baking sheet.
Drizzle the bread cubes with melted butter or olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the croutons are golden brown and crispy. Set aside.

2. Make the Soup:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrots, and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic, oregano, and bay leaf to the pot, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Pour in the low-sodium chicken or beef stock and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Stir in the diced corned beef or pastrami and the rinsed and drained sauerkraut. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

3. Thicken the Soup:

In a small bowl, whisk together the cold water and cornstarch until smooth.
Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the simmering soup, stirring constantly, until the soup has thickened slightly.

4. Add the Cream and Cheese:

Pour in the heavy cream and stir until well combined.
Gradually add the sliced Swiss cheese to the soup, stirring until the cheese has melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Ladle the creamy Reuben soup into bowls and garnish with the homemade croutons.
Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious soup!

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

Use Leftover Corned Beef: This recipe is a great way to use up any leftover corned beef from St. Patrick’s Day celebrations or deli meat from the grocery store.
Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can increase the amount of cornstarch used in the recipe. Alternatively, if you prefer a thinner consistency, you can decrease the amount of cornstarch or omit it altogether.
Add Extra Flavor: Feel free to add additional herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the soup. Fresh thyme, parsley, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce can all enhance the taste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use store-bought corned beef for this recipe? A: Yes, store-bought corned beef works perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to remove any excess fat before dicing it for the soup.

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time? A: Absolutely! This soup reheats well, so you can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Q: Can I freeze this soup? A: While this soup can be frozen, the texture of the dairy-based soup may change slightly upon thawing. If you do choose to freeze it, be sure to cool the soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag.

Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this soup? A: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this soup by omitting the corned beef and using vegetable stock instead of chicken or beef stock. You can also add extra vegetables such as diced potatoes or celery for added flavor and texture.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make the following adjustments to adapt this recipe:

Replace the Cornstarch: Substitute arrowroot powder or xanthan gum for the cornstarch to thicken the soup without adding extra carbs.
Skip the Croutons: Omit the croutons or use low-carb bread to reduce the carb content of the recipe.

In conclusion, our Creamy Reuben Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a warm and satisfying meal on a chilly day or looking to impress your family and friends with a flavorful homemade soup, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. With its creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and classic Reuben flavors, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the deliciousness of Creamy Reuben Soup!