Reuben In A Bowl is a tasty twist on the classic sandwich! It has all the yummy flavors like corned beef, sauerkraut, and creamy dressing, but it’s served as a warm, hearty bowl instead.
It’s super easy to make, and who doesn’t love a meal that can be eaten with a spoon? I love topping mine with some cheese and extra dressing—it’s comfort food at its best! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sauerkraut: This fermented cabbage brings in a tangy flavor. If you can’t find sauerkraut, you can use coleslaw mix or another type of pickled cabbage.
Corned Beef: I love using pre-cooked corned beef for ease. If you’re looking for a lighter option, shredded turkey or even grilled tempeh works well.
Carrots: Shredded carrots add sweetness and color. You can swap them out for bell peppers for a crunchier texture or skip them if you prefer.
Cabbage: Both red and green cabbage balance the dish. If you have just one type, that’s totally fine too. Napa cabbage or bok choy are also good substitutes.
Thousand Island Dressing: While this brings creaminess, any creamy dressing like ranch or a homemade yogurt dressing can work as a lighter alternative.
Caraway seeds: These add a unique flavor, but if you’re not a fan, you can leave them out. Dill or fennel seeds can be a nice substitute if you enjoy those flavors.
How Do You Make Sure the Vegetables Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the veggies just right can be tricky. The trick here is to heat them until they are tender but not mushy. Here’s a simple approach:
- Start with your skillet on medium heat to cook everything evenly.
- Use a mix of vegetables to get a variety of textures. Stir them frequently for even cooking.
- Keep an eye on the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes. They should be heated through and slightly tender, but still vibrant in color.
How to Make Reuben In A Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups sauerkraut, drained
- 1 lb cooked corned beef, chopped
- 1 cup cooked and shredded carrots
- 1 cup chopped red cabbage
- 1 cup chopped green cabbage
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Dressing and Garnish:
- 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
- 2 slices rye bread or pumpernickel, toasted and cut into strips (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 10 minutes of cooking time. You’ll be enjoying this delicious Reuben bowl in just under 30 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once the skillet is warm, add the drained sauerkraut, chopped corned beef, shredded carrots, red cabbage, and green cabbage. Stir everything together well to mix it up.
2. Season and Cook:
Next, if you like the flavor of caraway seeds, sprinkle those into the mixture. Now, season with a bit of salt and pepper to taste. Let this cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the mixture to be heated through and for the veggies to become slightly tender.
3. Add the Green Onions:
Once the mixture is heated, take it off the heat and stir in the sliced green onions evenly throughout the mix. This will add a nice fresh flavor to your bowl.
4. Serve It Up:
Transfer the warm mixture into a serving bowl. Drizzle a generous amount of Thousand Island dressing over the top for that classic Reuben flavor. You can also place the toasted rye or pumpernickel strips on the side for scooping or just enjoy your bowl as it is!
Can I Use Fresh Cabbage Instead of Pre-cut?
Absolutely! If you have fresh cabbage, just chop it into small pieces as needed. You can use any variety you like, but a mix of red and green cabbage gives a nice color and texture contrast!
What If I Don’t Have Thousand Island Dressing?
No problem! You can easily substitute with a mixture of mayonnaise and ketchup. A little bit of sweet pickle relish or some vinegar can enhance the flavor too. Adjust to your taste!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of broth or water.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the corned beef with plant-based protein like tempeh or seitan. You can also use a mix of beans and add extra spices for flavor to keep that hearty feel!
