As the leaves begin to carpet the ground and the air turns crisp, I find myself craving something warm and fulfilling to embrace those autumn vibes. Enter my Autumn Wild Rice Soup—a creamy, cozy bowl filled with the delightful textures of nutty wild rice, tender chicken, and a medley of vibrant vegetables. Not only does this comforting dish fill your stomach, but it’s also gluten-free and simple to whip up, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or leisurely weekends. Imagine gathering around the table, spoons clinking against bowls, relishing every spoonful on a chilly evening. Ready to dive into a heartwarming soup that captures the essence of the season? Let’s get cooking! Why Is This Soup a Must-Try? Comforting warmth: This Autumn Wild Rice Soup wraps you in a cozy embrace, making it the ideal choice for chilly evenings. Nutty flavor: The wild rice adds a unique texture and nutty taste that sets it apart from typical soups. Healthy ingredients: Packed with vegetables, this dish isn’t just delicious; it’s also nutritious and gluten-free! Quick and easy: You can whip this up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or those lazy weekends! Versatile options: Feel free to swap ingredients—you can easily make it vegetarian or throw in your favorite seasonal veggies. And if you’re looking for other comforting recipes, don’t miss out on my Shrimp Rice Bowls or Salmon Avocado Rice for more delightful meals that your family will love! Autumn Wild Rice Soup Ingredients For the Soup Base • Wild Rice – Rinse thoroughly for optimal texture and flavor. • Chicken Broth – Low sodium is best for controlling saltiness. • Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing and building flavor layers. • Onion – Sautéing brings out its natural sweetness. • Carrots – Provide color and a hint of sweetness when diced. • Celery – Adds a refreshing crunch to the overall texture. • Cremini Mushrooms – Sliced for even cooking and umami richness. • Garlic – Minced for a fragrant aromatic boost. For the Seasoning • Dried Thyme – Infuses herbal notes and aroma. • Dried Sage – Complements the earthiness of the soup beautifully. • Dried Rosemary – Use sparingly to add a fragrant touch. • Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – For mild heat; adjust according to taste. For Added Heartiness • Cooked Chicken – Shredded rotisserie chicken simplifies preparation. • Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk – Offers a luxurious, creamy texture. For the Finish • Fresh Parsley – Chopped to brighten up flavors. • Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning to taste. • Dry Sherry (optional) – Adds depth; can be omitted for non-alcoholic version. • Toasted Pecans or Walnuts – Crunchy garnish that enhances flavor. • Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional) – Sprinkle for a savory richness. Dive into this delightful Autumn Wild Rice Soup, and warm up your evenings with rich, comforting flavors! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Autumn Wild Rice Soup Step 1: Cook the Wild Rice Start by rinsing 1 cup of wild rice under cold water to remove excess starch, which helps prevent a gummy texture. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed wild rice with 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes until the rice is tender. Check occasionally and add more broth if necessary, then drain any excess liquid. Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables While the wild rice cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Introduce 8 ounces of sliced cremini mushrooms and continue cooking until they release their moisture and become tender. Finally, stir in 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried sage, and ½ teaspoon dried rosemary for about 1 minute until aromatic. Step 3: Simmer the Soup Once the vegetables are perfectly sautéed, pour in the remaining 4 cups of chicken broth, along with the cooked wild rice and 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over low heat, cooking for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to allow the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a fragrant and comforting Autumn Wild Rice Soup. Step 4: Finishing Touches As the soup simmers, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for that rich, creamy finish. If using, add ¼ cup of dry sherry at this stage to deepen the flavors. Toss in ¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup gently through without boiling, allowing it to reach a cozy warmth. Step 5: Serving Ladle the creamy Autumn Wild Rice Soup into bowls and garnish with toasted pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch. For those who enjoy a savory touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately to warm up your evening, and relish every comforting spoonful! Expert Tips for Autumn Wild Rice Soup Rinse Wild Rice: Always rinse wild rice thoroughly before cooking. This removes excess starch, preventing your soup from becoming gummy or overly thick. Sauté Gently: Take your time sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery. This patience allows for deeper flavors to develop, enhancing the overall taste of your Autumn Wild Rice Soup. Blend for Thickness: If you prefer a creamier texture, consider blending a portion of the soup after simmering, then mixing it back in before adding the cream. Adjust Spices: Don’t hesitate to modify the spices and seasonings according to your taste preferences. A little more thyme or an extra pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate your soup! Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to experiment with flavor boosters like lemon juice or additional herbs. A squeeze of lemon can brighten the overall taste and elevate the comforting nature of the soup. Make Ahead: This soup can be prepared in advance and actually gets better as it sits. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days, and enjoy the gradual deepening of flavors. Make Ahead Options These Autumn Wild Rice Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can sauté the vegetables (onion, carrots, celery, and mushrooms), and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, cook the wild rice 24 hours in advance and store it separately to maintain its texture. When you’re ready to enjoy your cozy soup, simply combine the sautéed veggies, wild rice, and broth, then reheat gently while stirring in the cream and chicken. This way, you’ll savor the same warm, comforting flavors without all the fuss! What to Serve with Autumn Wild Rice Soup Cozy up your meal with delightful accompaniments that enhance the comforting richness of this autumn favorite. Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a warm, crusty loaf pairs beautifully, soaking up the creamy broth with every delicious bite. Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the heartiness of the soup. Roasted Root Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted, these veggies bring a sweet caramelization that beautifully complements the nutty flavors in the soup. Cheesy Garlic Bread: This indulgent side combines buttery richness and garlic warmth, making it irresistible with each spoonful of soup. Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with this warm dessert. Its cinnamon-spiced apples create a delightful seasonal harmony. Sparkling Cider: A glass of bubbly cider adds a festive touch, while its crispness balances the creamy textures, making your meal even more enjoyable. How to Store and Freeze Autumn Wild Rice Soup Fridge: Store your leftover Autumn Wild Rice Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed. Freezer: This comforting soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave some space for expansion as it freezes. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat slowly over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Reheating: If you find the soup has thickened in the fridge, add a little water or broth while reheating to restore its creamy texture. Autumn Wild Rice Soup Customizations Embrace your creativity in the kitchen! These flavorful twists will make your cozy soup even more delightful. Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth and leave out the chicken; add canned beans for protein-packed goodness. Additional Vegetables: Toss in diced sweet potatoes, kale, or butternut squash for a nutritious boost and vibrant flavors. Different Mushrooms: Replace cremini mushrooms with shiitake or oyster mushrooms for a unique taste and texture dimension. Flavor Enhancements: Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors; don’t shy away from experimenting with your favorite spices. Heat Adjustments: For a little kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to liven things up. Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare a big batch and store for up to 3 days for easy lunches. Creaminess Factor: Blend a portion of the soup before adding cream for a thicker, velvety texture. Garnish Ideas: Experiment with garnishes like crispy prosciutto or fresh herbs for an elegant touch, elevating your comforting meal. Check out my delicious Soup Dumplings Thai for another heartwarming recipe that’ll impress your loved ones! Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe FAQs What kind of wild rice should I use? Absolutely! When selecting wild rice, look for a variety that is dark and has a slightly nutty scent. Choose long-grain wild rice for a chewier texture and avoid any brands with dark spots all over, which may indicate old or poor quality. Rinsing the rice before cooking is a must—it helps remove excess starch that can make the soup gummy! How should I store leftover Autumn Wild Rice Soup? Very! Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen it up if needed. This way, every bite remains delicious and creamy, just like when you first made it! Can I freeze Autumn Wild Rice Soup? Definitely! This cozy soup can be frozen for up to 2 months. Once it’s cooled completely, transfer it to freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave some room at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. What if my soup turns out too thick? Not a problem! If your soup thickens more than you’d like, simply add a little more broth or water while reheating. Stir it in gradually until you reach your desired consistency. A gentle simmer usually helps marry all the flavors back together! Is this soup suitable for people with nut allergies? Absolutely! With its gluten-free and nut-free variations, this Autumn Wild Rice Soup is perfect for those avoiding nuts. Just ensure you omit any garnish with nuts, like pecans or walnuts, and enjoy the creamy and comforting flavors without worry! How can I enhance the flavor of my soup? Feel free to get creative! Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving can brighten and elevate the taste beautifully. You might also try experimenting with spices or additional herbs like dill or even a pinch of smoked paprika for a unique twist that’ll impress everyone at the dinner table. If you have any more questions, don’t hesitate to ask! Enjoy your comforting bowl of Autumn Wild Rice Soup! Cozy up with This Creamy Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe This Autumn Wild Rice Soup is a creamy, cozy dish perfect for chilly evenings with its nutty texture and healthy ingredients. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: SoupCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base1 cup Wild Rice Rinse thoroughly for optimal texture and flavor.4 cups Chicken Broth Low sodium is best for controlling saltiness.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Perfect for sautéing and building flavor layers.1 medium Onion Sautéing brings out its natural sweetness.2 medium Carrots Provide color and a hint of sweetness when diced.2 stalks Celery Adds a refreshing crunch to the overall texture.8 ounces Cremini Mushrooms Sliced for even cooking and umami richness.2 cloves Garlic Minced for a fragrant aromatic boost.For the Seasoning1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Infuses herbal notes and aroma.1 teaspoon Dried Sage Complements the earthiness of the soup beautifully.½ teaspoon Dried Rosemary Use sparingly to add a fragrant touch.¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional; for mild heat; adjust according to taste.For Added Heartiness2 cups Cooked Chicken Shredded rotisserie chicken simplifies preparation.1 cup Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk Offers a luxurious, creamy texture.For the Finish¼ cup Fresh Parsley Chopped to brighten up flavors.to taste Salt & Pepper Essential for seasoning to taste.¼ cup Dry Sherry Optional; adds depth.¼ cup Toasted Pecans or Walnuts Crunchy garnish that enhances flavor.to taste Grated Parmesan Cheese Optional; sprinkle for a savory richness. Equipment Medium saucepanlarge potcutting boardKnife Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Autumn Wild Rice SoupStart by rinsing wild rice under cold water to remove excess starch, then combine with chicken broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes until tender.While the wild rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook until tender. Add minced garlic, thyme, sage, and rosemary for 1 minute.Pour in remaining chicken broth, then add cooked wild rice and shredded chicken. Bring to a gentle simmer over low heat, cooking for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk, and add dry sherry if using. Toss in chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper. Heat gently through.Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with toasted nuts and Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 2mg NotesRinse wild rice thoroughly before cooking. You can blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture if desired. Adjust spices to taste. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
