Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup for Fall Comforts

© Original recipe by Serena Miller ©

Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup for Fall Comforts 🍂🥣🌾

1. Introduction

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm bowl of wild rice soup. This autumn soup offers the perfect blend of hearty grains, tender vegetables, and savory broth, making it ideal for fall comfort foods. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious dinner or a cozy lunch, this fall rice soup recipe will become a seasonal favorite. Filled with wholesome ingredients and warm spices, it captures the essence of fall in each spoonful.

2. Ingredients Needed for the Wild Rice Soup

  • 1 cup wild rice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup cooked shredded chicken or turkey (optional)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for creaminess)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Best Wild Rice Soup

Preparing the Wild Rice

Rinse the wild rice thoroughly under cold water. In a medium pot, bring 3 cups of water to a boil, add the rice, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 45-50 minutes or until tender. Drain any excess water and set aside.

Sautéing the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Building the Soup Base

Add sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook until they release their juices, about 4-5 minutes. Pour in the broth and stir in dried thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes to develop flavors.

Adding the Wild Rice and Protein

Stir in the cooked wild rice and shredded chicken or turkey if using. Let the soup simmer for another 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove the bay leaf before proceeding.

Finishing Touches

Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk to add richness and creaminess to your fall rice soup. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra boost of flavor, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

4. Tips for Perfect Wild Rice Soup

  • For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth.
  • Cooking the rice separately ensures it’s tender and prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup.
  • Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end for a bright flavor contrast.
  • Enhance texture by topping with crispy bacon or toasted bread croutons.

5. How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Allow the wild rice soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months, making it perfect for batch cooking. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup as it reheats.

6. Serving Suggestions for Your Fall Rice Soup

This autumn soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls. For added flavor, serve it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a side of roasted seasonal vegetables. A fresh side salad with vinaigrette complements the hearty nature of this dish, making it a complete meal for cozy fall nights.

If you’re feeling inspired to try more soups, check out French Onion Soup Pizza or explore other comforting recipes linked on our site.

7. Frequently Asked Questions About Wild Rice Soup

Can I substitute other grains for wild rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice or quinoa, but keep in mind that the cooking time and texture may vary.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free broth and verify all ingredients, this wild rice soup can be suitable for a gluten-free diet.

How long does it take to prepare this comfort food?

The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, making it a perfect weekend meal.

Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! The soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store it in airtight containers and reheat thoroughly.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

9. Conclusion

Enjoy a taste of autumn with this hearty, flavorful wild rice soup. It captures the cozy spirit of the season and provides comfort in every spoonful. Perfect for chilly evenings or Sunday family dinners, this fall rice soup recipe is both nutritious and delicious. Make it your own by customizing ingredients or adding your favorite seasonal garnishes. Warm up your kitchen and your soul with this delightful autumn dish — happy cooking!

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A bowl of hearty wild rice soup garnished with fresh herbs, surrounded by autumn leaves, wooden table under natural light, creamy texture visible, inviting and warm colors

Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup for Fall Comforts

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A nourishing and hearty wild rice soup blended with seasonal vegetables and herbs, perfect for chilly autumn evenings.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup wild rice
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook wild rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Pour in vegetable broth, add cooked rice, mushrooms, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • Use homemade vegetable broth for richer flavor.
  • This soup can be made vegetarian or with added chicken for extra protein.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 220 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

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