What Soup Goes with Reuben Sandwiches: A Flavorful Match Made in Heaven
Introduction: A Delicious Harmony of Flavors
If you’ve ever enjoyed the rich flavors of a Reuben sandwich layers of corned beef, Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Russian dressing between two slices of crispy rye you already know it’s more than just a meal. It’s a comforting, savory experience. But what if you could elevate that experience even further? By pairing your Reuben with the perfect soup, you can balance the flavors and textures in a way that makes every bite even more satisfying.
In this article, we’ll explore the best soups to serve with a Reuben sandwich. We’ll introduce you to Reuben chowder soup, a delightful choice that captures the essence of the sandwich itself, and dive into other soups that complement the bold flavors of this classic meal.
What Makes a Soup the Perfect Pairing for Reuben Sandwiches?
Before diving into specific soup suggestions, let’s first consider the important factors that make a soup a great match for your Reuben sandwich. The right soup should enhance, not overwhelm, the flavors of the sandwich. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Flavor Profile: The Reuben is a hearty sandwich with salty, tangy, and umami-rich flavors. The soup you choose should either complement these flavors or provide a refreshing contrast without overpowering them.
- Texture: The Reuben features a crispy, toasted rye bread with gooey melted cheese. Ideally, the soup should have a texture that either contrasts with this or enhances it. Creamy soups work well, but brothy options can offer a refreshing balance.
- Temperature Contrast: Serving a warm soup alongside a hot Reuben creates a pleasant contrast between the temperatures of the two dishes. Both should be served at the right temperature to maximize the meal’s appeal.
Keeping these factors in mind, we’ll explore the best soup pairings for Reuben sandwiches, ranging from rich, creamy options to lighter broths.
Reuben Chowder Soup: The Ultimate Soup for Reuben Sandwiches
If you’re craving a soup that perfectly complements the bold flavors of a Reuben, look no further than Reuben chowder soup. This creamy, savory soup combines the classic ingredients of a Reuben sandwich corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and rye bread into a comforting chowder that mirrors the sandwich’s flavor profile.
What is Reuben Chowder Soup?
Reuben chowder soup is a creamy, comforting dish that captures all the flavors of a traditional Reuben sandwich. It features corned beef, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut, all simmered into a velvety soup base made with chicken broth and heavy cream. The rye bread is often toasted into croutons and added for texture, providing the perfect balance of crunch and creaminess.
Why Reuben Chowder Soup Works Well with a Reuben Sandwich
- Richness and Balance: The creamy texture of the soup complements the richness of the Reuben’s corned beef and Swiss cheese, creating a seamless blend of flavors.
- Texture Harmony: The smoothness of the soup contrasts with the crispy rye bread of the sandwich, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Flavor Profile: The tangy sauerkraut and savory corned beef in the chowder echo the same flavors in the sandwich, making it the ideal pairing.
Reuben chowder soup is a perfect companion to a Reuben sandwich, offering a hearty, satisfying meal that brings out the best in both dishes.
Other Delicious Soups to Pair with a Reuben Sandwich
While Reuben chowder soup is a standout option, it’s not the only soup that can pair beautifully with a Reuben sandwich. Depending on your preferences, there are several other soups that offer complementary flavors and textures. Here are some other great options:
Tomato Soup: A Classic Pairing
Tomato soup is a classic pairing with grilled cheese sandwiches, but it works just as well with a Reuben. The acidity of the tomato balances the richness of the sandwich, while its smooth texture contrasts nicely with the crispy rye bread.
Minestrone Soup: Light and Flavorful
For a lighter option, minestrone soup is a great choice. Packed with vegetables and herbs, it provides a fresh contrast to the richness of the Reuben without overwhelming the flavors. The broth-based soup also offers a welcome relief from the heaviness of the sandwich.
Potato Leek Soup: Creamy and Hearty
If you’re craving a rich and creamy soup, potato leek soup is another fantastic pairing. Its mild, smooth texture and subtle flavor balance out the bold taste of the Reuben, creating a satisfying meal.
Creamy Soups to Complement the Reuben
If you’re looking for something creamy to pair with your Reuben, there are several great options to choose from. These soups mirror the meltiness of the Swiss cheese in the sandwich and provide a comforting texture that enhances the overall meal.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Earthy and Savory
Cream of mushroom soup has an earthy, savory flavor that pairs wonderfully with the salty corned beef and tangy sauerkraut in a Reuben sandwich. The creaminess of the soup mirrors the melted cheese, creating a rich, harmonious dish.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Cheesy and Comforting
Another creamy option is broccoli cheddar soup. The cheesy base complements the Swiss cheese in the Reuben, while the mild flavor of the broccoli provides a subtle contrast to the tangy sauerkraut. This combination creates a balanced and comforting meal.
Brothy Soups for a Light Contrast
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a brothy soup can be the perfect contrast to the hearty Reuben sandwich. These soups provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the sandwich without overwhelming it.
French Onion Soup: Rich and Savory
French onion soup is a brothy, savory option that pairs well with a Reuben sandwich. The caramelized onions and beef broth bring out deep, rich flavors, while the melted cheese on top adds a creamy contrast to the sandwich.
Chicken Noodle Soup: Classic and Comforting
Chicken noodle soup is a familiar and comforting option that pairs well with almost any sandwich. Its light broth and tender noodles won’t overpower the flavors of the Reuben, making it an easy and delicious choice.
Vegetable-Based Soups for a Refreshing Pairing
If you prefer a more vegetarian soup, there are several vegetable-based options that pair wonderfully with the bold flavors of a Reuben sandwich. These soups offer a refreshing and wholesome contrast to the richness of the sandwich.
Gazpacho: Chilled and Refreshing
Gazpacho, a chilled tomato based soup, is a refreshing summer option that works well with a Reuben sandwich. Its tangy flavors provide a cool contrast to the warm, hearty sandwich, making it a great pairing for hot days.
Split Pea Soup: Hearty and Earthy
Split pea soup is another excellent choice, with its earthy flavors and thick, hearty texture. The subtle flavor of the peas balances the richness of the Reuben without competing with its bold ingredients.
Making Your Own Reuben Soup Pairings: Tips and Tricks
If you’re feeling creative and want to make your own Reuben-inspired soup, there are a few tips to help you get it just right.
Key Tips for Customizing Your Reuben Soup
- Incorporate Rye Bread: Toast some rye bread and cut it into cubes to add a crunchy, textured element to your soup.
- Add Sauerkraut and Mustard: For an authentic Reuben flavor, don’t forget the sauerkraut and a little Dijon mustard to balance out the richness.
- Experiment with Cheese: While Swiss cheese is the classic choice, you can try adding a little Gruyère or cheddar for a different twist.
By following these tips, you can create your own unique Reuben soup that perfectly complements your sandwich.
How to Serve Reuben Sandwiches with Soup
The way you serve your soup and sandwich can make all the difference in your meal. Here are some tips to elevate your Reuben soup and sandwich pairing:
Serving Tips for the Perfect Reuben Pairing
- Separate Plates or Bowls: Serve your Reuben sandwich on a separate plate, with the soup in a bowl on the side. This allows you to enjoy both components at your own pace.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on your soup can enhance the flavor and presentation.
- Right Temperature: Ensure both your soup and sandwich are served at the right temperature hot soup and a crispy, melty Reuben will deliver the best experience.
Recipe: Reuben Chowder Soup
Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Reuben chowder soup that’s perfect for
pairing with your Reuben sandwich. Enjoy!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Corned Beef | 1 lb | Chopped into bite-sized pieces |
| Sauerkraut | 1 cup | Drained and chopped |
| Swiss Cheese | 1 cup | Shredded |
| Chicken Broth | 4 cups | Or vegetable broth for a lighter option |
| Heavy Cream | 1 cup | For richness |
| Onion | 1 medium | Chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Potatoes | 3 medium | Peeled and diced |
| Dijon Mustard | 1 tbsp | Adds tangy flavor |
| Salt | To taste | Adjust based on preference |
| Pepper | To taste | Adjust based on preference |
| Rye Bread (for croutons) | 2 slices | Cut into cubes and toasted |
Instructions:
- In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
- Add potatoes and chicken broth, then bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the corned beef, sauerkraut, Dijon mustard, and heavy cream. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add Swiss cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- For extra crunch, top with toasted rye bread croutons and serve!
FAQs
What type of soup goes best with a Reuben sandwich?
The best soups to pair with a Reuben sandwich are creamy options like Reuben chowder soup, creamy potato soup, or tomato soup. These provide a delicious contrast to the sandwich’s savory, tangy flavors.
Can I serve a lighter soup with a Reuben?
Absolutely! Brothy soups like French onion soup or chicken noodle soup offer a light contrast to the richness of the Reuben.
Why is Reuben chowder soup a good pairing?
Reuben chowder soup combines all the signature flavors of a Reuben sandwich corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut into a creamy, comforting soup that complements the sandwich perfectly.
Conclusion: The Perfect Soup for Your Reuben Sandwich Awaits
In conclusion, the perfect soup to pair with your Reuben sandwich is one that balances the rich, savory flavors of the sandwich while enhancing the overall meal. Whether you opt for a classic tomato soup, a hearty Reuben chowder, or a lighter broth based option, the key is to create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Experiment with different soups, and soon you’ll find your perfect Reuben pairing.
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Now that you have some tasty soup pairing ideas, why not try making your own Reuben chowder soup today? Get creative with the ingredients and elevate your sandwich game! Don’t forget to share your soup and sandwich pairing adventures with us in the comments below!