Who isn’t drawn in by the aroma of a simmering pot on a cool autumn evening? As the leaves turn and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of Autumn Wild Rice Soup to embrace the cozy vibes of fall. This hearty recipe captures the essence of the season with its nutty wild rice, tender seasonal vegetables, and a splash of sherry that elevates the flavor profile. Not only is it a comforting staple for those chilly nights, but it easily adapts to fit gluten-free and dairy-free diets, making it a perfect crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply seeking a hug in a bowl, this soup will surely warm your heart. Ready to stir up some cozy magic in your kitchen?

Why is Autumn Wild Rice Soup a Must-Try?

Comforting Warmth: This soup encapsulates the essence of fall, providing a hearty embrace in every bowl.

Customizable Ingredients: Whether you prefer it gluten-free or dairy-free, this recipe easily adapts to your dietary needs, making it a versatile choice for everyone.

Nourishing and Filling: Packed with nutritious wild rice and seasonal veggies, it’s not just tasty but nourishing, perfect for those who want wholesome meals.

Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can have this comforting dish on the table in no time. Check out ideas for pairing it with Furikake Fried Rice for a complete meal!

Expert Tips for a Winning Dish: Follow my tips for sautéing veggies to bring out deep flavors and achieve the perfect texture for your soup.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this soup is sure to be a hit! Serve it with crusty bread or a green salad for a delightful experience.

Autumn Wild Rice Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base

Wild Rice – Provides a nutty flavor and chewy texture; rinse before cooking for best results.
Chicken Broth – Forms the flavorful base; opt for low-sodium for a healthier option.
Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing veggies and contributes healthy fats.
Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the soup’s flavor profile.
Carrots – Brings natural sweetness; peel and dice them for even cooking.
Celery – Offers crunch and savory notes; perfect for balancing flavors.
Cremini Mushrooms – Provides umami flavor; can be swapped with other mushrooms if desired.
Garlic – Enhances overall flavor; use freshly minced for the best impact.

For Seasoning

Dried Thyme – Complementary herb that adds a fragrant touch.
Dried Sage – Earthy notes that truly make it an autumn dish.
Dried Rosemary – Adds a pine-like aroma; use sparingly as it’s quite strong.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Introduces a hint of heat; adjust to your tasting preferences.

For Added Protein and Creaminess

Cooked Chicken – Boosts protein; rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut.
Heavy Cream/Coconut Milk – Adds richness and creaminess; coconut milk is perfect for a dairy-free option.

For Garnish

Chopped Fresh Parsley – Provides a fresh burst of flavor and a lovely garnish.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste.
Dry Sherry (optional) – Introduces depth of flavor, but feel free to omit if preferred.
Chopped Pecans/Walnuts (for garnish) – Adds crunch and nutty flavor; substitute herbs for a nut-free option.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (for garnish, optional) – Enhances savory notes in the soup.

This Autumn Wild Rice Soup is all set to fill your home with the warm, inviting aroma of fall! Enjoy the rich flavors as you gather around the table with loved ones.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Step 1: Cook the Wild Rice
Begin by rinsing 1 cup of wild rice under cold water to remove excess starch. In a large pot, combine the rinsed wild rice with 4 cups of chicken broth, bringing it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to low, allowing the rice to simmer for 45-50 minutes until tender. Drain any excess liquid before setting the rice aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks, cooking for 5-7 minutes until they soften and begin to caramelize. Next, stir in 8 ounces of sliced cremini mushrooms, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until they are tender. Add 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried sage, and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, stirring until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the remaining 4 cups of chicken broth along with the cooked wild rice and 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and allow the soup to simmer for 30-60 minutes. This process helps meld the flavors of your Autumn Wild Rice Soup beautifully.

Step 4: Finishing Touches
After the soup has simmered, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for extra richness, and, if desired, add a splash of dry sherry for depth of flavor. Incorporate a handful of chopped fresh parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat the soup gently without boiling, allowing the cream to warm through.

Step 5: Serving
Finally, ladle the aromatic Autumn Wild Rice Soup into bowls, garnishing each serving with toasted pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch. If you prefer, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor. Serve warm alongside crusty bread or a fresh green salad to complete your cozy fall meal.

Expert Tips for Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Rinse Wild Rice: Rinse the wild rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch—this creates a better texture in your Autumn Wild Rice Soup.
Sauté with Care: Take your time when sautéing the vegetables; letting them caramelize enhances their natural sweetness and deepens the overall flavor.
Thickening Trick: For a creamier soup, blend a portion of the finished soup before adding cream to achieve a luscious texture without using too much dairy.
Season to Taste: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning to your preference. A pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can make all the difference!
Storage Reminder: Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for 2 months—just remember to cool it completely before freezing for best results.

Autumn Wild Rice Soup Customizations

Feel free to play around with this recipe to make it truly yours and delight your senses!

Vegetarian Delight: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the chicken, adding canned beans for protein.
Different Grains: Swap wild rice for quinoa or barley for a new flavor and texture experience. Each grain brings its unique charm to the soup.
Sweet Potato Upgrade: Incorporate diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash for an extra layer of sweetness and nutrition.
Kale Boost: Add fresh or frozen kale during the final simmer for a pop of color and added health benefits. It cooks quickly and adds a lovely texture.
Spice it Up: Sprinkle in smoked paprika or cayenne for a delightful warmth, perfect if you love a bit of heat in your soup.
Citrus Twist: A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavors and makes the autumn vegetables sing!
Cream Alternatives: Don’t have coconut milk? Try cashew cream for creaminess without dairy, or use Greek yogurt as a thickening option.
Nut-Free Garnish: If you prefer a nut-free option, swap the nuts with fresh herbs like chives or cilantro for garnishing.

As you explore these ideas, don’t forget that this versatile soup pairs beautifully with Wild Rice Soup or a comforting bowl of Italian Meatball Soup for an unforgettable meal. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

What to Serve with Autumn Wild Rice Soup?

Cozying up with a warm bowl of soup invites the perfect opportunity to create a delightful meal that embraces the flavors of fall.

Crusty Bread: The perfect accompaniment, crusty bread provides a hearty texture to soak up every last drop of the soup, enhancing each bite.
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad balances the richness of the soup with crisp greens and a light vinaigrette, bringing a bright element to the table.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized vegetables add a crunchy texture and earthy flavor, complementing the nutty notes of wild rice splendidly.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: Melted cheese with a hint of garlic harmonizes beautifully with the warmth of the soup, offering a gooey indulgence for cozy evenings.
Savory Scones: Flaky scones infused with herbs provide a delightful contrast in texture; they’re perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
Apple Crisp: End your meal with a comforting apple crisp, whose warm spices and sweet fruit echo the seasonal themes of your nourishing soup.
Hot Apple Cider: Embrace the essence of autumn with a cup of hot apple cider on the side; its sweet, spiced profile is a sweet complement.
Pumpkin Muffins: A basket of moist pumpkin muffins brings a hint of sweetness to the meal, making them a delightful snack to finish off your dining experience.

Each of these pairings elevates your dining experience, creating a complete and heartwarming meal to savor throughout the fall season.

How to Store and Freeze Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring to leave some space for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating: Reheat the thawed soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if it appears thickened.

Flavor Improvement: The flavors of the Autumn Wild Rice Soup will deepen after a day in the fridge, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for busy weeks!

Make Ahead Options

Autumn Wild Rice Soup is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to savor its flavors even on your busiest nights! You can prepare the soup base—sautéed vegetables and cooked wild rice—up to 3 days in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Make sure the components are completely cooled before refrigerating to maintain flavor and quality. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply reheat the base, add your broth and cooked chicken, and stir in the cream or coconut milk just before serving. This way, you’ll have a delicious, comforting bowl ready to warm your heart with minimal effort!

Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select wild rice?
Absolutely, when selecting wild rice, look for grains that are dark brown or black and uniform in size. Avoid any that have dark spots all over, as these may indicate spoilage. Rinsing the rice before cooking is also key because it removes excess starch, which leads to a better texture in your Autumn Wild Rice Soup.

How long can I store leftover Autumn Wild Rice Soup in the fridge?
Leftover soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container and allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation. This will help maintain its delicious flavor and texture!

Can I freeze Autumn Wild Rice Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! To do so, let it cool completely and portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. The soup can be stored for up to 2 months. Be sure to leave some space in your containers for expansion as the soup freezes. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat on the stove over medium heat.

What should I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup turns out thicker than desired, don’t worry! Simply add a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating to achieve your desired consistency. Stir well and heat until warm. Taste and adjust seasoning afterward, as you may need to add a pinch more salt or herbs to enhance the flavor.

Are there any dietary considerations for the ingredients?
Very! For those with dietary restrictions, this Autumn Wild Rice Soup is easily adaptable. To make it gluten-free, simply ensure the chicken broth and any additional ingredients you use are gluten-free. For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. Always check for allergies related to nuts, especially when garnishing with pecans or walnuts.

Can pets enjoy a version of this soup?
While your furry friends may be curious about your delicious soup, it’s important to avoid sharing the seasoned version. Many ingredients like onions and garlic can be harmful to pets. However, you can set aside some plain cooked wild rice and veggies without added seasoning for a special treat for them!