As I stood by the stovetop, the crisp autumn air drifting through my kitchen, I realized there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Autumn Wild Rice Soup to embody the season’s cozy spirit. The nutty wild rice mingles with fresh, tender vegetables and a warm, savory broth, instantly transporting me to those golden afternoons of fall. This comforting soup is not only a delightful way to showcase seasonal ingredients but also beautifully customizable—perfect whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in. Plus, it’s gluten-free and offers a creamy texture that satisfies without weighing you down. What variations will you try to make it your own?
Why is Autumn Wild Rice Soup a Must-Try?
Unforgettable flavor: The harmonious blend of nutty wild rice and savory broth creates a warm embrace with every spoonful.
Customizable options: Whether you want to add shredded chicken or keep it vegetarian, this soup adapts beautifully to your taste preferences.
Nutrient-rich ingredients: Packed with vitamins and minerals from vegetables, this cozy dish is as wholesome as it is delicious.
Time-saving: With minimal prep work, you can enjoy this comforting fall recipe in just about an hour.
Perfect pairing: Serve it with crusty bread for an ultimate comfort food experience, or complement it with a light salad to balance your meal.
If you enjoy variations, check out my recipe for Coconut Chicken Rice to explore another delightful rice-based dish!
Autumn Wild Rice Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Wild Rice – Adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture; rinse before cooking to remove excess starch.
• Chicken Broth – Forms the savory base; low-sodium preferred for a healthier option.
• Olive Oil – Used for sautéing vegetables, adding flavor and richness.
• Onion – Brings sweetness and depth; chop before use.
• Carrots – Provide sweetness and vibrant color; peel and dice for even cooking.
• Celery – Offers crunch and aromatic flavor; dice it prior to cooking.
• Cremini Mushrooms – Enhance umami notes and texture; slice them before adding.
• Garlic – Imparts a robust flavor; mince it to release more aroma.
• Dried Thyme, Sage, Rosemary – Add depth of flavor; make sure your dried herbs are fresh for best results.
For the Optional Ingredients
• Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a slight kick; use according to your spice preference.
• Cooked Chicken – Shredded for satisfying protein; rotisserie chicken is a convenient option.
• Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk – Adds creaminess; coconut milk is perfect for a dairy-free version.
• Fresh Parsley – Garnish for freshness; chop finely before adding.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste.
• Dry Sherry – Introduces complexity to the flavor; can be replaced with white wine for an alternative twist.
For the Garnish
• Toasted Pecans or Walnuts – For garnish, providing crunch and flavor; chop and toast them for the best finish.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a savory touch; can be omitted for a dairy-free option.
Fall in love with the comfort of this Autumn Wild Rice Soup and let your creativity shine through the various customization possibilities!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Autumn Wild Rice Soup
Step 1: Cook Wild Rice
Begin by rinsing 1 cup of wild rice under cool water to remove excess starch, then combine it with 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil over medium-high heat, cover it with a lid, and reduce to a simmer for 45–50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the kernels start to split. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add 1 chopped onion, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks. Sauté the mixture for about 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent. Introduce 8 ounces of sliced cremini mushrooms, cooking for another 5–7 minutes, then stir in 3 minced garlic cloves along with 1 teaspoon each of dried thyme, sage, and rosemary, cooking until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer Soup
Next, pour in the remaining 4 cups of chicken broth along with the cooked wild rice and 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken. Bring the pot to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Allow the soup to cook for 30–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, to blend the flavors and let the ingredients meld together comfortably.
Step 4: Finish Soup
To add richness, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk and 1/4 cup of dry sherry if using. Incorporate 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness, then season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Warm the soup gently over low heat, taking care not to let it boil.
Step 5: Serve
Ladle the Autumn Wild Rice Soup into bowls, garnishing each serving with a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately with crusty bread or a fresh salad on the side to enhance this heartwarming meal.
Autumn Wild Rice Soup Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this soup your own with a few simple adjustments!
- Vegetarian Delight: Use vegetable broth and skip the chicken; add your favorite beans for a protein boost.
- Kale Power: Add a handful of chopped kale towards the end of cooking for extra nutrients and a pop of color.
- Sweet Potato Surprise: Swap in diced sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness and gorgeous fall flair.
- Grain Switch: Try quinoa or barley instead of wild rice for a different texture and flavor; both are delicious!
- Mushroom Medley: Experiment with different types of mushrooms, like shiitake or portobello, for a unique twist in flavor.
- Zesty Lemon: Just before serving, squeeze in some lemon juice to enhance the flavor; it adds a lovely brightness!
- Nutty Garnish: Top with toasted hazelnuts or sunflower seeds instead of pecans for a distinct crunch and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: If you love heat, up the ante with more red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a fiery boost.
If you want to explore more soupy goodness, try my comforting Turkey Meatball Soup or the vibrant Crockpot Vegetarian Tortilla Soup to keep warming your kitchen on chilly days!
Tips for the Best Autumn Wild Rice Soup
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Rinse the Rice: Always rinse wild rice before cooking to remove excess starch, ensuring a better texture and taste in your Autumn Wild Rice Soup.
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Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time sautéing the vegetables; this step builds rich flavor and depth in your soup.
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Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process. Everyone’s palate is different, so find the perfect balance in your soup.
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Thicker Soup?: If you’re making the soup ahead, remember it may thicken over time. Add an extra cup of broth when reheating to reach your desired consistency.
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Customize Wisely: Explore variations—swapping out vegetables or proteins can bring new life to this comforting dish while keeping it gluten-free.
Make Ahead Options
Autumn Wild Rice Soup is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors on busy weeknights! You can prepare the soup base—sautéing the vegetables and cooking the wild rice—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store these components in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For optimal flavor, refrigerate your soup base along with any cooked chicken, and add broth just before reheating. When you’re ready to serve, heat everything gently on the stove, stir in your chosen cream (or coconut milk), and season to taste. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll have a cozy, delicious meal that’s just as satisfying as if you made it fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Autumn Wild Rice Soup
Refrigerator: Store your Autumn Wild Rice Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This makes for convenient meal prep during busy weeks.
Freezer: Freeze the soup in portions for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags, leaving space for expansion as it freezes.
Thawing: For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. This helps to retain the flavors and maintain the soup’s comforting texture.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to return to your desired consistency. Enjoy that cozy feeling all over again!
What to Serve with Autumn Wild Rice Soup
A cozy meal isn’t complete without the perfect sides by your side.
- Crusty Bread: The ideal companion, its crispy exterior and soft interior are perfect for soaking up the creamy soup.
- Green Salad: A light mix of fresh greens and a zesty vinaigrette brightens up the meal and balances the soup’s richness.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery, and sprinkled with garlic; these add a comforting crunch that complements the soup beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies like squash and Brussels sprouts adds depth and ties together the fall flavors.
- Cheesy Quesadillas: Crispy and cheesy, these can be filled with spinach and mushrooms to match the soup’s earthy tones.
- Apple Crisp: End the meal on a sweet note with this warm dessert, as the cinnamon flavors echo the spices in the soup.
- Spiced Cider: A warm drink addition, its sweet and spicy notes resonate perfectly with the comforting essence of the soup.
Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best wild rice?
Absolutely! When selecting wild rice, look for grains that are dark and have a uniform color without any broken pieces. Avoid any packages that contain a lot of dark spots or debris, as this could indicate lower quality. Fresh wild rice should be firm and has a nutty aroma, which means it’s ready to shine in your Autumn Wild Rice Soup!
How should I store leftover Autumn Wild Rice Soup?
Very! Once your soup has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate it. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, which is perfect for enjoying it later in the week. Just remember to reheat it gently on the stove, adding a bit of broth if it thickens too much.
Can I freeze Autumn Wild Rice Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze your soup, let it cool completely and then ladle it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Be sure to leave some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly on the stovetop.
What can I do if my soup is too thick upon reheating?
No problem! If your Autumn Wild Rice Soup thickens too much when reheating, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water gradually while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Make sure to reheat it on low heat, and keep stirring to ensure everything blends nicely!
Is this soup suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, indeed! This Autumn Wild Rice Soup is gluten-free, especially if you use gluten-free broth. Always double-check your broth and any optional ingredients like sherry or Worcestershire sauce to ensure they meet your dietary preferences. For those with nut allergies, avoid garnishing with pecans or walnuts and consider using seeds instead for a similar crunch!
Can I make Autumn Wild Rice Soup vegetarian?
Very! You can easily make your Autumn Wild Rice Soup vegetarian by substituting the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omitting the cooked chicken. For added protein, consider incorporating beans, lentils, or some diced tofu. This delicious dish will still be comforting and flavorful!
Cozy Up with Autumn Wild Rice Soup for Ultimate Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse wild rice under cool water to remove excess starch, then combine with chicken broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for 45–50 minutes, or until tender.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery; sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened. Introduce mushrooms and cook for another 5–7 minutes, then stir in minced garlic and herbs.
- Pour in remaining chicken broth and the cooked wild rice along with shredded chicken. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 30–60 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk and dry sherry if using. Add chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper. Warm gently over low heat.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with toasted nuts and Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
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