Name: Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Wild Rice (Can substitute with brown rice.); 8 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth (Use vegetable broth for vegetarian option.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can substitute with avocado oil.); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.); 1/2 large Onion (Red onion can be a substitute.); 4 large Carrots (Frozen carrots work in a pinch.); 3 stalks Celery (Leeks can be used for a sweeter profile.); 3 cloves Garlic (Adjust to taste or use garlic powder.); 16 ounces Mushrooms (Baby Bella preferred; shiitake or portobello also great.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Substitutes include sea salt or table salt.); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground is recommended.); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Optional if fresh onion is included.); 1 teaspoon Dried Rosemary (Thyme as an alternative.); 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme (Fresh thyme can also be used.); 3/4 cup All-Purpose Flour (Use gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version.); 1 1/2 cups Milk (Almond milk for a dairy-free option.); 1/2 cup Half and Half (Coconut cream as a non-dairy alternative.)

As the leaves turn to vibrant hues and the air becomes crisp, there’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a hearty soup to celebrate the season. Our Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup is like wrapping yourself in a soft blanket on a chilly evening—it’s comforting, filling, and brimming with the essence of autumn. With earthy wild rice and a medley of hearty vegetables tucked in a creamy broth, this recipe not only warms the soul but also offers the flexibility to accommodate vegetarian preferences. It’s the perfect dish for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze, and it’s bound to impress friends and family alike. Are you ready to discover how to bring this comforting bowl of goodness to your kitchen?

Why Is This Soup a Must-Try?

Cozy Comfort: This Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup wraps you in warmth, making it the perfect dish for chilly evenings. Hearty Ingredients: With wild rice and vegetables, it’s packed with wholesome goodness. Easy Preparation: The straightforward steps make it accessible for cooks of all levels, even on busy nights. Versatile Options: You can easily personalize it by adding protein or seasonal greens. Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Bring this dish to your next gathering, and watch everyone fall in love! Pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal that leaves everyone satisfied.

Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Wild Rice – Provides earthiness and texture; substitute with brown rice for a similar experience.
• Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Serves as the delicious base; opt for vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
• Olive Oil – Adds healthy fats and depth; can be swapped with avocado oil if desired.
• Unsalted Butter – Brings richness to the dish; use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.

For the Vegetables
• Onion (1/2 large) – Builds the aromatic foundation; red onion can be a milder substitute.
• Carrots (4 large) – Introduces sweetness and vibrant color; frozen carrots work in a pinch.
• Celery (3 stalks) – Adds crunch and flavor depth; leeks can be used for a sweeter profile.
• Garlic (3 cloves) – Enhances the overall flavor; feel free to adjust to taste or use garlic powder.
• Mushrooms (16 ounces) – Infuses umami and richness, with Baby Bella being a preferred variety; shiitake or portobello are also great alternatives.

For Seasoning
• Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning; substitutes like sea salt or table salt can also be used, adjusting to taste.
• Black Pepper – Adds warmth and depth; freshly ground is recommended.
• Onion Powder (1 tsp) – Enhances the onion flavor; optional if fresh onion is included.
• Dried Rosemary (1 tsp) – Introduces an aromatic note; thyme can be used instead to match the other flavors.
• Dried Thyme (1 tsp) – Adds an earthy taste; fresh thyme can also be used for an even fresher boost.

For Thickening and Creaminess
• All-Purpose Flour (3/4 cup) – Thickens the soup beautifully; for gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend.
• Milk (1 1/2 cups) – Contributes to the creaminess; almond milk serves as a dairy-free option.
• Half and Half (1/2 cup) – Enriches the texture; coconut cream is perfect for a non-dairy alternative.

This Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup is sure to become a family favorite, thanks to its warm, hearty ingredients and customizable nature!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Step 1: Prepare Wild Rice
Begin by bringing 3 cups of low sodium chicken broth to a rolling boil in a medium saucepan. Add the wild rice, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, cover with a lid, and let it cook for 45-50 minutes. Once the rice is tender but still al dente, remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and set aside while you prepare the rest of the soup.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat until melted. Add diced onion, chopped carrots, sliced celery, and mushrooms. Season the mixture with onion powder, dried rosemary, dried thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper, and sauté for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Create Roux
Sprinkle 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour evenly over the sautéed vegetables, stirring continuously for about 3 minutes. This roux will help to thicken your Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup, so make sure to be attentive and avoid letting it brown. The mixture should become somewhat pasty while absorbing the flavors of the vegetables.

Step 4: Thicken Soup
Gradually pour in 8 cups of chicken broth while stirring the roux mixture thoroughly. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens. The soup should achieve a creamy consistency that clings to the back of a spoon, showcasing the blend of flavors.

Step 5: Final Assembly
Stir the previously cooked wild rice into the thickened soup mixture along with 1 1/2 cups of milk and 1/2 cup of half and half. Bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will meld all the wonderful flavors together, creating the comforting essence of your Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup.

Step 6: Serve
Once the soup is heated through and all flavors have combined beautifully, ladle the Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup into bowls. Serve hot, perhaps with crusty bread or a fresh salad on the side, inviting everyone to enjoy a bowl of this creamy comfort.

Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup with these comforting twists!

Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and enjoy a rich plant-based version that retains all the flavors.
Creamy Coconut: Substitute half and half with full-fat coconut milk for a luscious, tropical creaminess that’s sure to impress.
Protein Boost: For extra nutrition, toss in shredded rotisserie chicken or your favorite beans for a satisfying protein punch.
Savor the Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to bring a delightful warmth that dances on your taste buds.
Hearty Greens: Stir in a handful of kale or spinach toward the end of cooking for a boost of color and nutrients.
Nutty Flavor: Mix in toasted pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and rich flavor contrast against the creamy backdrop.
Cheesy Indulgence: Sprinkle in some grated Parmesan or a dairy-free cheese alternative just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

Use these variations to make the soup your own, or check out our recipes for Chicken Noodle Soup or Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup for even more comforting options!

Expert Tips for Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Chop Evenly: Ensure all vegetables are chopped uniformly for even cooking. This prevents some from becoming mushy while others remain crisp.
Monitor the Roux: Stir the flour and vegetable mixture continuously to avoid browning. A smooth, pale roux is key to the perfect texture in your Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup.
Season Gradually: Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. Adding salt in increments helps you find the right balance without over-seasoning.
Consider Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to experiment with ingredients based on what you have. For example, leftover rotisserie chicken or seasonal greens can elevate your soup.
Reheat Properly: When storing leftovers, remember to reheat gently on low heat. This preserves the creamy texture and melds flavors perfectly.

Make Ahead Options

These Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify mealtime! You can prep the wild rice and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the wild rice according to the recipe, allow it to cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Likewise, after sautéing the vegetables, cool them down and keep them separately refrigerated. When you’re ready to finish your soup, just combine the cooked rice and sautéed veggies with the remaining broth and dairy ingredients, then gently heat and simmer until warmed through. This way, your meal remains just as delicious and comforting, while saving you precious time during the week!

How to Store and Freeze Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Fridge: Keep the soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain its creamy texture and flavor.

Freezer: Portion out individual servings in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to ensure even warming. Add a splash of milk if the soup thickens too much during storage.

Leftover Tips: For optimal taste, avoid letting the soup sit at room temperature for more than 2 hours to keep your Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup safe and delicious.

What to Serve with Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Elevate your meal experience with delightful pairings that complement the creamy warmth of this comforting soup.

Crusty Bread: Enjoy the perfect dip into the soup with a slice of rustic, chewy bread that soaks up every bit of flavor.
Fresh Spinach Salad: A light, crisp salad brings a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the soup with bright lemon vinaigrette.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized sweetness provides an earthy counterpart, enhancing the overall cozy experience of your meal.
Cheddar Cheese Toast: Melty, sharp cheddar atop toasted bread adds richness and a lovely crunch, making every bite delightful.
Autumn Pear Tart: For dessert, a slice of cinnamon-spiced pear tart offers delicious warmth and a sweet finish, echoing the flavors of the season.
Apple Cider: Serve warm apple cider as a drink that perfectly complements the autumn flavors in your soup, enveloping you in fallback nostalgia.
Maple Glazed Carrots: Roasted carrots with a maple glaze provide a touch of sweetness and vibrancy to your plate, perfectly harmonizing with your soup.

These pairings create a heartwarming dining experience that embraces the spirit of fall!

Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select wild rice?
Absolutely! When choosing wild rice, look for grains that are dark in color and have a firm texture. Avoid any bags with broken or shriveled grains. Fresh wild rice should have a slight nutty aroma; if it smells off or stale, it’s best to pass it up!

How long can I store Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup in the fridge?
You can keep your Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To maintain its creamy texture, be sure it’s sealed well to prevent moisture loss or contamination, and always reheat it gently when ready to serve.

Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, you can! For freezing, ladle the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and then gently reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it has thickened.

What can I do if my soup ends up too thick after storage?
If your soup thickens too much during storage, don’t worry! Simply add a bit of warm milk or broth as you reheat it, stirring to reach your desired consistency. This will reinvigorate the creamy texture and flavors.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, the Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup can easily be made vegetarian by substituting chicken broth with vegetable broth. For those who are lactose intolerant, feel free to substitute milk and half-and-half with almond milk or coconut cream. Ensure all ingredients are checked for allergens before serving!

Can I add other ingredients to personalize my soup?
The more the merrier! You can always add cooked chicken for protein or toss in seasonal greens like kale or spinach for an additional nutritional boost. A pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper can give it a spicy kick, too! Enjoy experimenting with flavors that your family loves.