Wild Rice Soup

This Wild Rice Soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days — creamy, hearty, and loaded with earthy flavor. With a base of nutty wild rice, tender vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this soup warms you from the inside out. Whether you make it vegetarian or add shredded chicken for extra protein, it’s a bowl of pure coziness that tastes like home.

Perfect for meal prep or a comforting dinner, this soup is creamy without being heavy, thanks to a light roux and milk or cream. It’s wholesome, filling, and absolutely delicious — a true fall and winter staple!

Why You’ll Love This Wild Rice Soup

🌾 Hearty & Satisfying: The wild rice adds a chewy texture and nutty flavor.
🥕 Packed with Veggies: Loaded with carrots, celery, onions, and mushrooms.
🥣 Creamy but Light: Comforting without being overly rich.
🍗 Customizable: Make it vegetarian or add chicken for a protein boost.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 cup wild rice (uncooked)
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 small onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk (or dairy-free alternative)
1 cup cooked shredded chicken (optional)
1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

How to Make Wild Rice Soup

Step 1 – Cook the Rice: In a medium pot, cook the wild rice in broth according to package instructions until tender (about 40–45 minutes). Set aside.
Step 2 – Sauté the Veggies: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Sauté for 6–8 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and thyme; cook for another minute.
Step 3 – Make the Roux: Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat. Cook for 1–2 minutes, then gradually whisk in milk until smooth and creamy.
Step 4 – Combine: Add cooked wild rice and remaining broth to the pot. Stir and simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened. If using chicken, add it now and cook until heated through.
Step 5 – Finish & Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley.

Tips for the Best Wild Rice Soup

🧈 Use real wild rice: It gives the soup its signature nutty texture and flavor.
🥣 Thicken to your liking: For a creamier texture, add more milk or a splash of cream.
🌿 Add depth: A splash of white wine or apple cider vinegar brightens the flavor.
🥕 Meal prep tip: The flavors get even better the next day!

Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and use veggie broth — still hearty and flavorful.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk for a creamy finish.
• Mushroom Lovers: Double the mushrooms for an earthy twist.
• Instant Pot Option: Cook wild rice, broth, and veggies on high pressure for 25 minutes; then stir in milk and thickener afterward.

What to Serve With Wild Rice Soup

This cozy soup pairs beautifully with:

• Crusty sourdough or garlic bread
• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables for a hearty meal
  

FAQs

Can I use a wild rice blend?
Yes! Just adjust cooking time slightly — blends often cook faster.

How long does it keep?
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding broth if it thickens.

Can I freeze wild rice soup?
Yes, but freeze before adding milk for best results. Add the creamy component when reheating.

Conclusion

This Wild Rice Soup is cozy, flavorful, and nourishing — everything you want in a homemade soup. It’s perfect for cold nights, meal prep, or whenever you need a bowl of warm comfort. 🌾🥣