Creamy Reuben Soup

### Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Reuben Soup

#### Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the **butter** over medium heat. Add the **onion** and sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onions are soft and translucent. Add the **garlic** and cook for another minute until fragrant.

#### Step 2: Add the Corned Beef and Sauerkraut
Once the onions and garlic are cooked, stir in the **corned beef** and **sauerkraut**. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the corned beef to heat through.

#### Step 3: Add the Broth and Cream
Pour in the **beef broth** and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and add the **heavy cream**. Stir in the **Dijon mustard**, **thousand island dressing**, and **caraway seeds** (if using). Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to blend together. Stir occasionally to prevent the cream from scorching.

#### Step 4: Add the Swiss Cheese
Once the soup has simmered and the flavors have come together, add the **shredded Swiss cheese**. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the soup, creating a creamy and rich texture.

#### Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with **salt** and **pepper**. You can also add more mustard or dressing if you want a tangier flavor, or more sauerkraut if you like it extra zesty.

#### Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with **fresh parsley** for a pop of color. If you like, serve with a side of **grilled rye bread** or **rye croutons** for the perfect accompaniment.

### How to Serve Creamy Reuben Soup

This soup is hearty enough to be a main dish, but here are a few ways to serve it up:

– **With Grilled Rye Bread**: A classic Reuben sandwich is made with rye bread, so why not serve your soup with a warm, buttered **grilled rye bread** for dipping? It’s a perfect way to enhance the flavors and add some crunch.
– **Crusty Rye Croutons**: Make **rye croutons** by cutting rye bread into cubes, tossing them in olive oil, and toasting them in the oven. They’re great for sprinkling over the soup to add texture.
– **A Side Salad**: A crisp, refreshing side salad with a simple vinaigrette would balance out the richness of the soup. Try a light **cabbage slaw** for a nod to the Reuben’s sauerkraut.
– **Pickles**: Serve with **dill pickle spears** or a side of pickled vegetables to add a tangy contrast to the creamy soup.

### Why This Recipe Works

– **Reuben Flavors in a Soup**: The classic Reuben flavors — **corned beef**, **sauerkraut**, **Swiss cheese**, and **thousand island dressing** — come together beautifully in this soup. The tangy, creamy broth mirrors the sandwich’s components, making it an instant comfort food hit.

– **Creamy and Cozy**: The combination of heavy cream and Swiss cheese makes this soup wonderfully creamy, while the mustard and thousand island dressing provide that signature zesty kick that you love in a Reuben.

– **Perfect for Leftovers**: If you have leftover corned beef from St. Patrick’s Day or another celebration, this soup is a fantastic way to repurpose it. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of a Reuben without having to make sandwiches every time.

– **Easy and Quick**: This soup comes together quickly, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or weekend treat. Plus, it’s made in one pot, so cleanup is a breeze.

### Variations and Tips

– **Vegetarian Version**: For a vegetarian take, you can substitute the corned beef with **vegetarian corned “beef”** or **tempeh**. While it won’t have the same flavor, it’ll still provide a hearty base for the soup.

– **Spicy Twist**: If you love a little heat, add a pinch of **cayenne pepper** or some **chopped jalapeños** to the soup. The spice will pair beautifully with the creamy and tangy flavors.

– **Lighten It Up**: If you’re looking to make the soup a bit lighter, you can substitute the **heavy cream** with **half-and-half** or even **coconut milk** for a dairy-free version. Just be mindful that the texture may change slightly.

– **Add More Veggies**: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as **carrots**, **celery**, or **potatoes**, to make it heartier. These will add more texture and nutrients without compromising the core flavors.

### Conclusion

**Creamy Reuben Soup** is a warm and satisfying dish that takes the beloved flavors of a Reuben sandwich and transforms them into a rich, creamy soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it with leftover corned beef or just craving a comforting, flavorful bowl, this soup will hit the spot every time. Serve it with some rye bread or croutons, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to delight.

Give this recipe a try, and let the creamy, zesty, and savory flavors of the Reuben shine through in a whole new way! Enjoy this comforting dish any time you want to indulge in a cozy, feel-good meal.