Cozy Up with This Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe Today!

As the leaves start to change and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to soothe the soul. Autumn Wild Rice Soup is the perfect blend of seasonal flavors, from earthy wild rice to nutrient-dense veggies and a creamy coconut milk base. This hearty, wholesome soup is a delightful way to welcome the coziness of fall.

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The Benefits of Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Autumn Wild Rice Soup is not only delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients that can support your overall health. Wild rice is a fantastic source of fiber, protein, and a variety of vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc. The inclusion of seasonal produce, such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and kale, adds an extra boost of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to the mix.

Beyond the nutritional benefits, this soup is an absolute delight for the senses. The earthy aroma of the wild rice, the sweetness of the vegetables, and the creamy coconut milk all come together to create a symphony of flavors that will warm you from the inside out. It’s the perfect dish to enjoy on a chilly autumn day, whether you’re curled up by the fireplace or gathering with loved ones.

Ingredients for Autumn Wild Rice Soup

• 6 cups vegetable stock (or chicken stock)
• 1 cup uncooked wild rice
• 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 ribs celery, diced
• 1 large (about 1 lb) sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 1 small white onion, peeled and diced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1½ tablespoon Old Bay seasoning (or seasoning of your choice)
• 1 (14-ounce) can unsweetened coconut milk (or substitute heavy cream for a dairy version)
• 2 large handfuls of kale, roughly chopped with thick stems removed
• Salt and freshly-cracked black pepper, to taste

Cooking Up Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Now that you have all the delicious ingredients, it’s time to bring this Autumn Wild Rice Soup to life! Here’s how to do it:

Combine the Base

In a large pot or Instant Pot, combine the vegetable stock, wild rice, mushrooms, garlic, carrots, celery, sweet potato, onion, bay leaf, and Old Bay seasoning. Gently stir everything together to get those flavors mingling.

Cook the Rice and Veggies

If you’re using the stovetop, bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it cook for 30-40 minutes (or follow your Instant Pot’s instructions: high pressure for ~25 minutes, then natural release) until the rice and vegetables are tender and cooked through.

Finish with Creamy Goodness

Once the rice is nice and tender, remove the bay leaf. Stir in the coconut milk (or cream if you prefer a dairy version), then add the chopped kale. Let it cook for a few more minutes, just until the kale has wilted and everything is warmed through.

Season and Serve

Take a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed. Serve this Autumn Wild Rice Soup warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of the season.

Elevating the Autumn Wild Rice Soup

While the basic recipe is already a delightful autumn delight, you can easily customize Autumn Wild Rice Soup to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick, or stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a touch of earthy depth. Fresh thyme or rosemary would also be a lovely addition, complementing the other seasonal flavors.

Serving Suggestions for Autumn Wild Rice Soup

This Autumn Wild Rice Soup is a meal in itself, but you can certainly pair it with some tasty accompaniments to round out the experience. A crusty bread or warm cornbread would be the perfect pairing, soaking up every last drop of that creamy broth. For a lighter side, try a simple green salad or a roasted vegetable medley.

If you’re in the mood for a heartier meal, consider serving the soup with grilled chicken or roasted turkey for added protein. And don’t forget the wine! A crisp white wine or a medium-bodied red would be a delightful complement to the flavors of this cozy autumn soup.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Mushroom Soup
• Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili
• Harvest Vegetable Stew
• Coconut Curry Lentil Soup

FAQs About Autumn Wild Rice Soup

How can I make Autumn Wild Rice Soup in a slow cooker?

To make Autumn Wild Rice Soup in a slow cooker, start by adding all the ingredients except for the coconut milk and kale to the slow cooker. Set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Once the cooking time is done and the wild rice and vegetables are tender, stir in the coconut milk and chopped kale. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the kale is wilted. This method allows for a hands-off cooking experience while developing rich flavors.

Can I add different vegetables to my Autumn Wild Rice Soup?

Absolutely! Autumn Wild Rice Soup is versatile, and you can customize it to include seasonal vegetables you enjoy or have on hand. Consider adding butternut squash, zucchini, or parsnips for added flavor and nutrition. Just be mindful of the cooking times; denser vegetables may require longer cooking, while softer ones should be added later in the cooking process to prevent them from becoming mushy.

What are some tips for thickening the soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency for your Autumn Wild Rice Soup, there are several methods you can use. One option is to blend a portion of the soup (about 1-2 cups) until smooth, then stir it back into the pot. Alternatively, you can add a slurry made from cornstarch and water, or simply increase the amount of wild rice used, as it will absorb more liquid and thicken the soup as it cooks.

How can I make Autumn Wild Rice Soup more kid-friendly?

To make Autumn Wild Rice Soup more appealing to kids, consider simplifying the flavors and textures. You can omit stronger-tasting ingredients like mushrooms or kale and replace them with milder vegetables like peas or corn. Additionally, pureeing the soup can create a smoother texture that may be more enjoyable for children. Serve it with fun dipping options like cheese sticks or whole-grain crackers to make it a more interactive meal.

With its comforting flavors and nourishing ingredients, Autumn Wild Rice Soup is the perfect way to cozy up and savor the best of the season. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with loved ones, this soup is sure to warm your heart and delight your taste buds.

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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