Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup

A Warm and Comforting Bowl for Chilly Days

As the crisp autumn air sets in, nothing is more comforting than a bowl of rich, hearty soup. This Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup is packed with seasonal flavors, featuring a medley of vegetables, nutty wild rice, and a creamy broth that brings everything together. Whether you’re enjoying it as a weeknight dinner or serving it at a festive gathering, this soup is a perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nourishing & Hearty – Wild rice adds a satisfying chew and is packed with fiber and protein.
• Loaded with Autumn Vegetables – Carrots, celery, mushrooms, and sweet potatoes create a comforting blend.
• Creamy Yet Dairy-Free Option – While you can use heavy cream, a coconut milk alternative makes it just as luscious.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – This soup stores and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers.
• One-Pot Wonder – Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

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Ingredients

• 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium sweet potato, diced
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup cooked shredded chicken (optional)
• 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.

2. Add Mushrooms and Sweet Potatoes

Stir in the mushrooms and sweet potatoes, cooking for another 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.

3. Simmer with Broth & Wild Rice

Pour in the broth, then add the wild rice, thyme, sage, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 45–50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the wild rice is tender.

4. Incorporate the Chicken (Optional)

If using chicken, stir in the cooked, shredded meat at this stage.

5. Make it Creamy

Stir in the coconut milk or heavy cream. If you prefer a thicker soup, mix cornstarch with a small amount of cold water and add it to the pot. Let simmer for another 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

6. Finish & Serve

Remove the bay leaf and stir in fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

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Variations & Substitutions

• Make it Vegan – Skip the chicken and use coconut milk for a plant-based version.
• Swap the Sweet Potatoes – Butternut squash or regular potatoes work just as well.
• Use Different Grains – Brown rice or farro can replace wild rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Add More Protein – White beans or chickpeas can be used instead of chicken for a vegetarian protein boost.

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Servings & Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

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Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this soup thicker?

You can use a cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) or mash some of the sweet potatoes for natural thickening.

Can I cook this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all ingredients except the coconut milk/heavy cream and cornstarch to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Stir in the cream at the end.

What’s the best type of wild rice to use?

Look for 100% wild rice rather than blends, as the cooking time and texture will differ.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! It’s a great time-saving option. Simply stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken at the end.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a little heat.

Can I substitute white rice?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time to about 20–25 minutes since white rice cooks faster than wild rice.

How do I keep the rice from getting mushy?

If planning to store leftovers, cook the rice separately and add it to individual servings before eating.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes! Just ensure your broth and any added ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this soup without coconut milk or cream?

Yes, you can leave it out for a brothy version or use a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.

What are the best toppings for this soup?

Fresh herbs, grated Parmesan, toasted nuts, or a drizzle of olive oil can enhance the flavors beautifully.

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Conclusion

This Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup is the perfect dish for welcoming the fall season. With its rich flavors, nourishing ingredients, and flexible adaptations, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make all season long. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or a side, this soup is guaranteed to bring warmth and comfort to your table. Try it out and make it a staple in your autumn meal rotation!

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