Reuben Soup: A Hearty Take on a Classic Sandwich
Reuben Soup is a charming culinary invention that encapsulates the spirit of the cherished Reuben sandwich in a cozy, comforting bowl. This robust soup melds the deep flavors of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, echoing the classic deli favorite, and presents them in the style of French onion soup, crowned with dark rye bread and gooey Swiss cheese.
Preparation and Cooking Time:
– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 30 minutes
– Total Time: 40 minutes
– Servings: 4
Description:
Reuben Soup is a filling dish that unites all the flavors of a Reuben sandwich, served in a soothing soup format. It’s ideal for those who relish the mix of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese, providing a distinctive twist on a time-honored classic.
Ingredients:
– 3 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 3 tablespoons flour (or rice flour for gluten-free)
– 4 cups chicken broth (or beef broth)
– 1 cup cooked corned beef, shredded or cut into small pieces
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained, coarsely chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
– 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream or thousand islands dressing or Russian dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices dark rye, lightly toasted (optional)
– 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
Directions:
1. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, add the onion and sauté until soft, about 5-8 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes, sprinkle the flour in, mix and cook for a minute.
3. Pour in the broth, add the corned beef, sauerkraut, Worcestershire sauce, and caraway seeds, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Stir in the cream, adjusting with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Divide among 4 oven-safe bowls, top with rye and Swiss, and broil until the cheese is melted, about 1 minute.
Slow Cooker Option:
– Begin with step 1, optionally proceed with steps 2 & 3, place all ingredients except the cream, bread, and cheese in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-10 hours or high for 2-4 hours before adding the cream and optionally carrying out step 5.
Additional Options:
– The butter and flour are included to thicken the broth; feel free to skip the flour and reduce the butter to 1 tablespoon for a lighter broth.
– Incorporate 1 tablespoon horseradish for an additional zing.
– Mix in 1 teaspoon of corned beef pickling spices, along with the caraway seeds, for deeper flavor.
Nutrition Facts:
– Calories: 640
– Fat: 41g (Saturated 23g, Trans 0.8g)
– Cholesterol: 127mg
– Sodium: 890mg
– Carbs: 39g (Fiber 4g, Sugars 7g)
– Protein: 27g
Reuben Soup is a delightful way to savor the tastes of a classic Reuben sandwich in a warm and fulfilling soup. Ideal for a cozy meal, this dish is sure to satisfy both soup and sandwich enthusiasts alike.