This creamy wild rice soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With hearty wild rice, fresh veggies, and a splash of cream, it’s perfect for chilly days.
I love how filling this soup is; it makes a great meal all on its own. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up. Just simmer and enjoy the comforting aroma in your kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wild Rice: This is the star of the soup! It adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture. If you can’t find wild rice, a mix of brown rice and quinoa can work, though the taste will vary a bit.
Broth: I usually go for low-sodium chicken broth for extra flavor, but vegetable broth is a great substitute for a vegetarian version. Homemade broth elevates the taste even more!
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms bring depth to the soup. If you’re not a fan, you can skip them or replace them with chopped spinach or kale for a different crunch.
Half-and-Half or Cream: This adds to the creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use milk instead. Just know it might be a bit less creamy.
How Do I Make the Perfect Creamy Soup Consistency?
Getting that creamy texture is key. Here’s how to do it right:
- Cook the flour with vegetables to create a roux. This step helps thicken the soup without lumps.
- Gradually add the half-and-half or cream while stirring constantly. This ensures an even mix and keeps it smooth.
- Simmer gently after adding in the cream to avoid scorching it. Low heat helps the flavors meld without curdling.
With these tips, your soup will be lush and creamy every time! Enjoy the cozy vibes it brings!
How to Make Creamy Wild Rice Soup
Ingredients List:
Basic Ingredients:
- 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups half-and-half or heavy cream
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy wild rice soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus around 1 hour to cook the rice and 15-20 minutes to finish the soup. In total, you should expect to spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Perfect for a cozy cooking session!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Wild Rice:
In a medium saucepan, bring the broth to a boil. Add the rinsed wild rice, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the rice is tender. If there’s any excess liquid left, just drain it.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and the onion looks translucent.
3. Add Garlic and Thyme:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme, letting it cook for about 1 minute until you can smell the wonderful aroma. This step really brings out the flavor!
4. Make the Roux:
Now, sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables and stir well to coat them. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste—this will help thicken your soup.
5. Add Cream:
Gradually whisk in the half-and-half or cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until everything is smooth and blended together.
6. Combine Everything:
Now it’s time to add the cooked wild rice to the soup base. Stir it in gently to combine all those tasty ingredients.
7. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld together and thicken the soup slightly.
8. Taste and Season:
Before serving, season your soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Give it a quick stir!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if you’d like. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of your creamy wild rice soup!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of Wild Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice as a substitute, but make sure to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour to cook, similar to wild rice, but check for doneness and adjust as needed since the texture will differ.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make it dairy-free, use coconut milk or any plant-based cream alternative instead of half-and-half or heavy cream. You can also skip the flour and use a cornstarch slurry to thicken it if desired.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover creamy wild rice soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Just make sure to leave out the cream until you reheat it. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then add the cream while reheating on the stove.