Autumn Wild Rice Soup: The Ultimate Fall Comfort Food

As the leaves turn golden and a crisp chill settles in the air, nothing quite comforts like a warm bowl of soup. For me, soup is more than just a dish; it’s a cherished ritual that harkens back to cozy evenings spent in my grandmother’s kitchen. I remember her leaning over a pot, the enticing aroma of sautéed veggies mingling with her laughter. This Autumn Wild Rice Soup captures that nostalgia—it’s brimming with rustic flavors that invite connection and warmth. Made with simple ingredients, each spoonful is a reminder that the best meals are those crafted with care and love. Here’s how to bring that warmth into your home with this delectable soup.

Autumn Wild Rice Soup: The Ultimate Fall Comfort Food

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• Author: r-maamouzgmail-com
• Total Time: 80 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free option available

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Description

This warm and hearty Autumn Wild Rice Soup encapsulates the essence of fall with nutty wild rice and savory vegetables to create a comforting dish perfect for chilly nights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
• 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup dry sherry (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted (for garnish)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Cook wild rice in 4 cups of chicken broth until tender, about 45-50 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and garlic, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until tender.
4. Stir in dried thyme, sage, rosemary, and optional red pepper flakes for 1 minute.
5. Pour in the remaining 4 cups of chicken broth, cooked wild rice, and shredded chicken. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for at least 30 minutes.
6. Stir in heavy cream or coconut milk, dry sherry (if using), and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper, heat through gently, and avoid boiling.
7. Serve topped with toasted nuts and grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days. Garnish can be adjusted based on preference.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 70 minutes
• Category: Soups
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: wild rice soup, autumn soup, comfort food, fall recipes, hearty soup

The Heart of Autumn Wild Rice Soup

When the weather starts to cool down, I find myself craving comforting meals that warm both the belly and the heart. That’s where this Autumn Wild Rice Soup shines, turning ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. The combination of flavors—from nutty wild rice to savory vegetables—creates a dish that encapsulates the essence of autumn.

I still remember the first time I tried making wild rice. It was a busy weeknight, and I was determined to replicate my grandmother’s famous soup. The kitchen quickly filled with the comforting scent of sautéed onions, and I felt an instant connection to those family meals I cherished as a child. There’s something magical about transforming simple ingredients into a dish that not only feeds the body but also nourishes the soul.

As I stirred the pot, I could almost hear my grandmother’s voice, offering tips and encouragement. This soup is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of heritage and new beginnings. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a cozy night in, this dish is your perfect partner. The beauty of Autumn Wild Rice Soup is in its versatility; you can make it your own by adding seasonal ingredients or your favorite spices. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this fall comfort food experience.

Ingredients & Preparation for Autumn Wild Rice Soup

To create this delightful Autumn Wild Rice Soup, you’ll need a selection of fresh ingredients. You’ll be surprised at how each element plays a crucial role in building a flavor profile that’s complex yet comforting. Here’s a rundown of what goes into this warming dish:

• 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
• 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup dry sherry (optional, but adds a lovely depth of flavor)
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted (for garnish)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Once you gather all your ingredients, preparing the soup is a straightforward and rewarding process. Start by cooking that wild rice in chicken broth until it’s tender and delicious. The broth adds richness, making it the perfect base for your soup.

Next, sauté the vegetables—onion, carrots, and celery—in olive oil until they’re softened. The aroma that fills your kitchen will remind you of why cooking is a labor of love. Add the cremini mushrooms and garlic next, stirring until they tenderize, then season with your dried herbs. Finally, combine everything in a pot, including the cooked rice and chicken, pour in additional chicken broth, and let it simmer to perfection.

You’ll want to finish with a touch of cream for richness, and season to taste before serving with freshly chopped parsley and your choice of nuts for a delightful crunch on top.

Cooking Steps for a Perfect Autumn Wild Rice Soup Experience

Cooking the wild rice is the first step toward creating your Autumn Wild Rice Soup masterpiece. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed wild rice with 4 cups of the chicken broth, bringing it to a boil over high heat. Then, reduce the heat to low, covering the pot and allowing it to simmer for about 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and grains have split open. It’s essential to check periodically and add more broth if needed. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and set the rice aside.

As the wild rice cooks, it’s time to sauté the vegetables. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Start with the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until softened, making sure the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the sliced cremini mushrooms, continuing to cook for another 5-7 minutes until they tenderize and release their moisture.

Now, sprinkle in the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried sage, and rosemary. This step is crucial; the herbs bloom in the heat, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Stir constantly for another minute or so until fragrant. Next, pour the remaining 4 cups of chicken broth into the pot, followed by the cooked wild rice and shredded chicken. Bring everything to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes.

For the finishing touches, stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and dry sherry, if you’re using it. Fold in the fresh parsley and season with necessary salt and pepper. Heat through gently, taking care not to boil the soup after adding the cream. When you serve the Autumn Wild Rice Soup, garnish it with toasted pecans or walnuts and grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of elegance.

Serving and Enjoying Your Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Now that your delicious Autumn Wild Rice Soup is ready, let’s talk about how to serve and enjoy it best. This soup makes a fantastic starter for any meal and can be paired with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete experience. The creamy texture and layered flavors will surely impress your guests, making it a standout dish at any autumn gathering.

As for presentation, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with toasted nuts and cheese. It’s all about those finishing touches that elevate the experience. Consider serving it alongside a crisp white wine, which complements the richness beautifully, or a hot cup of spiced apple cider for added warmth.

Don’t forget to share the experience with loved ones. Gather around the table and enjoy the warm company as you dig into delicious bowls of soup that embody the comfort of fall. This dish is versatile enough for leftovers as well, as it tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had more time to meld.

The joy of making this Autumn Wild Rice Soup goes beyond enjoying each spoonful. It’s about creating new memories in the kitchen, passing down recipes, and savoring the flavors of the season with those you love. So, whether it’s a simple family dinner or a festive occasion, this soup is your go-to comfort food.

FAQs About Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Conclusion

Autumn Wild Rice Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that evokes feelings of warmth, nostalgia, and togetherness. With every ingredient carefully chosen, you create a dish that celebrates the season beautifully. Whether enjoyed on a chilly night or served at a gathering, the heartwarming flavors and textures will leave everyone asking for seconds. Embrace the fall season and start your culinary adventure with this ultimate comfort food!

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