Name: Autumn Wild Rice Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup wild rice, rinsed; 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 carrots, peeled and diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon dried sage; 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!); 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free); 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup dry sherry (optional); 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted (for garnish); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

As the leaves turn from vibrant green to shades of gold and crimson, there’s a comforting ritual that unfolds in my cozy kitchen. The aroma of simmering broth mingles with the earthy scent of wild rice, conjuring memories of crisp autumn days spent wrapped in flannel blankets. I first stumbled upon this gem of a recipe at a fall harvest potluck, where the rich, nutty flavors and creamy texture warmed the soul. With each spoonful, this Autumn Wild Rice Soup brought smiles and stories, making it a beloved staple in my kitchen and heart.

The beautiful combination of wild rice, tender vegetables, and savory herbs transforms even the simplest moments into delightful gatherings. This soup is not just a meal; it’s the embrace of a warm hug on a chilly day. Trust me, friends, as soon as your pot starts bubbling on the stove, you’ll understand why it’s cherished—and why you should add it to your recipe repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make home cooking a breeze!
Nutritious & Hearty: Packed with vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains, this soup is wholesome comfort in a bowl.
Perfect for a Crowd: Recipe can easily be doubled for gatherings or cozy family meals.
Flexible Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or spices for a touch of personalization.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep; it tastes even better the next day!
Freezes Wonderfully: Stock your freezer with portions for a cozy meal any time.

Recipe Snapshot

Ingredients

1 cup wild rice, rinsed: This hearty grain provides a nutty flavor and delightful texture. Make sure to rinse well to remove any dust!
8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred): The base of our soup; low sodium allows you to control the salt levels.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and is perfect for sautéing veggies.
1 large onion, chopped: Sweetens and deepens flavors as it cooks—don’t skip this!
2 carrots, peeled and diced: Adds color, sweetness, and nutrition.
2 celery stalks, diced: A must for that classic aromatic base, giving a fresh crunch.
8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced: Earthy and savory, they add a lovely depth.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Because everything’s better with garlic!
1 teaspoon dried thyme: A warm, herbal note that pairs beautifully with fall flavors.
1/2 teaspoon dried sage: Brings an aromatic sharpness that’s simply fantastic.
1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds an evergreen essence that makes you think of cozy nights.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a touch of heat to spark your taste buds!
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!): A quick protein addition, or you can use leftover chicken!
1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free): For that luscious, creamy consistency that warms the soul.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Adds brightness and a fresh finish.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
1/4 cup dry sherry (optional): A splash of this adds wonderful depth—highly recommended!
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted (for garnish): A delightful crunchy garnish that elevates each bite.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish): A finishing touch for cheesiness, if desired.

Full recipe card is below.

How to Make It

Step 1: Cook the Wild Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed wild rice with 4 cups of the chicken broth. Bring it to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the grains have split open. Check periodically and add more broth if needed. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and set aside. The smell as it cooks is simply irresistible!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes until softened and the onion is translucent. The kitchen will smell like heaven around this time! Next, toss in the sliced cremini mushrooms and cook for another 5-7 minutes until they’re tender and have released their moisture. Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried sage, dried rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using), and let that aroma fill your home for about 1 minute.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Pour in the remaining 4 cups of chicken broth, followed by the cooked wild rice and shredded chicken. Bring this aromatic medley to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The flavors develop beautifully in this step—just let it work its magic!

Step 4: Finishing Touches

Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and the dry sherry (if using). Add the chopped fresh parsley, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Gently heat through, but be careful not to boil the soup after adding the cream; this soup deserves a tender finishing touch.

Step 5: Serving

Ladle that cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup into bowls. Garnish with toasted pecans or walnuts and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you want to add a cheesy delight. Serve immediately and watch everyone melt into relaxation!

Pro Tips for Success

Rinse the Rice: Always rinse your wild rice well; it enhances flavor and texture.
Don’t Skip the Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley really elevates the dish—don’t skip it!
Taste for Seasoning: Be sure to taste as you go; every broth varies in saltiness, and personal preference is key.
Slow Cooking: If you have time, allow the soup to simmer longer. The flavors only get better!

Flavor Variations

Add Greens: Stir in some spinach or kale for added nourishment.
Swap Proteins: Use leftover turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Spice it Up: A dash of cayenne or smoked paprika can add depth and heat.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Autumn Wild Rice Soup with a warm, crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. A glass of chilled white wine or hot apple cider complements this cozy dish beautifully. For presenting, consider rustic bowls that reflect the warmth of the soup!

Make-Ahead & Storage

Prepare all ingredients ahead of time and store them separately, then combine for a quick weeknight meal. The soup can safely be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.

Leftovers

My favorite part! Use leftover soup as a flavorful sauce over pasta or grain bowls for a delightful new dish. You can also blend it for a creamy risotto-like dish!

Freezing

This soup freezes wonderfully—allow it to cool completely before portioning into airtight containers or freezer bags. Label with the date; it can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply pop it in the fridge overnight!

Reheating

For the best results, reheat your soup gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just in short intervals and stir in between!

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?
Absolutely! Just remember that brown rice has a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly.

Can this soup be made vegetarian?
Yes! Use vegetable broth and omit the chicken for a delightful vegetarian version. You might want to add some more mushrooms for depth.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
You can substitute with dried herbs, but remember that 1 teaspoon of dried herbs typically equals about 1 tablespoon of fresh!

Can I double this recipe?
Certainly! Just make sure your pot is large enough to hold all that comforting goodness!

Final Thoughts

As you cozy up with a bowl of this Autumn Wild Rice Soup, I hope it brings you as much warmth and joy as it has to me. The flavors, the aromas, and those little crunchy surprises will wrap you in comfort as the seasons change outside. So grab a spoon, share it with loved ones, and create your own memories around the table. Happy cooking, my friends, and enjoy every bite of this fall treasure!