Soup with a creamy texture inspired by Reuben sandwiches.

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Vegetables:

• In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and carrot (if using) and sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

2. Build the Soup Base:

• Stir in the chopped sauerkraut, mixing well with the sautéed onions, garlic, and carrots. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Add the chopped corned beef to the pot and stir everything together. Let the corned beef warm up in the pot for about 2 minutes.

3. Add Broth and Simmer:

• Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
• Add the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and optional caraway seeds. Stir to incorporate, then taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

4. Add Cream and Cheese:

• Stir in the heavy cream, then reduce the heat to low. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring that the cream blends into the broth and the soup becomes creamy.
• Gradually stir in the shredded Swiss cheese until it melts completely, creating a smooth and velvety texture. If the soup is too thick, you can add more beef broth or a splash of water to reach your desired consistency.

5. Serve:

• Ladle the soup into bowls, and if you like, top with some chopped rye bread croutons for added crunch and authenticity. Garnish with parsley or green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Why You’ll Love This Reuben Sandwich-Inspired Soup:

1. Classic Reuben Flavors: This soup is a delightful twist on the classic Reuben sandwich, with all the familiar ingredients—corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and creamy dressing—blended into a warm, comforting soup. The combination of savory, tangy, and creamy flavors is just as satisfying as the sandwich itself.
2. Rich, Creamy Texture: The addition of heavy cream and melted Swiss cheese creates a luxurious, velvety texture that makes each spoonful feel indulgent. It’s like enjoying the best part of a Reuben sandwich—its creamy, cheesy filling—in soup form.
3. Perfect for Chilly Days: This soup is the perfect dish for colder weather. It’s hearty, warming, and comforting, ideal for a cozy lunch or dinner. The richness of the broth and the creaminess of the soup make it incredibly satisfying, while the tang of the sauerkraut adds an unexpected pop of flavor.
4. Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, this soup comes together quickly, making it a perfect weeknight meal. The preparation time is minimal, and you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day.
5. A Fun Twist: If you’re a fan of the Reuben sandwich, this soup version is a fun way to enjoy all your favorite components in a new form. It’s perfect for anyone looking to shake up their routine or try something different with familiar ingredients.

Tips for Success:

• Use Quality Corned Beef: The flavor of the corned beef is central to the soup, so using good-quality corned beef—whether homemade or from the deli—will really make a difference. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use turkey corned beef.
• Adjust the Creaminess: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the amount of cream in the soup. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or even milk instead of heavy cream. If you want it extra creamy, feel free to add a little more cream or cheese.
• Add More Toppings: For added texture and flavor, try topping your soup with rye bread croutons or a sprinkle of extra cheese. You can also serve it with a side of crusty rye bread for dipping, truly capturing the essence of the Reuben sandwich.
• Make It Vegetarian: To make a vegetarian version of this soup, skip the corned beef and instead use plant-based meat or more vegetables. The sauerkraut and Swiss cheese will still provide that tangy, creamy balance of flavors.

Final Thoughts:

This Reuben Sandwich-Inspired Soup brings all the beloved flavors of a classic deli sandwich into a creamy, comforting soup form. Whether you’re craving the savory richness of corned beef, the tang of sauerkraut, or the melt-in-your-mouth creaminess of Swiss cheese, this soup delivers all that and more. It’s the perfect dish to enjoy when you’re looking for something both hearty and flavorful, and it makes for an excellent meal on a cold day.

So, next time you find yourself craving a Reuben sandwich, why not turn it into a creamy, indulgent soup instead? With this simple recipe, you can enjoy all the magic of a Reuben sandwich in a warm, comforting bowl!