Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup 🍂🍲✨

“A Hearty and Comforting Soup Perfect for Crisp Autumn Days!”

This Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup is a creamy, hearty dish filled with nutty wild rice, tender vegetables, and earthy flavors. It’s the perfect bowl of warmth to enjoy as the leaves change and the air gets cooler.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup wild rice (uncooked)
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Element:

• 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk (or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (for an earthy touch)
• 1/2 cup chopped kale or spinach (for added greens)

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Crusty bread or rolls for serving

How to Make Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Rice and Broth

1. Add the wild rice, chicken or vegetable broth, bay leaf, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the pot.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 40–50 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Base

1. In a small bowl, whisk the flour into the heavy cream or milk until smooth (optional for thickening).
2. Stir the cream mixture into the soup and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add Optional Ingredients

1. If using chicken, mushrooms, or greens, stir them into the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Allow the ingredients to heat through and meld with the flavors.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread or rolls on the side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with wild rice, veggies, and optional protein for a filling meal.
• Autumn-Inspired Flavors: Herbs like thyme and rosemary make it perfect for the season.
• Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or make it dairy-free for a lighter option.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Rinse Wild Rice: Rinse the wild rice under cold water to remove excess starch and ensure even cooking.
2. Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or rosemary, they’ll add even more vibrant flavor.
3. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen the consistency.

This Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup is like a hug in a bowl—perfect for savoring during chilly evenings or sharing with loved ones. Pair it with your favorite bread or a simple salad, and enjoy the warm, hearty flavors of fall! 🍂🍲✨