This creamy wild rice soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with tender wild rice, veggies, and a rich, velvety broth that will make you smile with every spoonful.
I love how cozy and comforting this soup is, especially on chilly days. Just pair it with some crusty bread, and you’re in for a treat! 🥖
Ingredients & Substitutions
Wild Rice: Wild rice blend adds unique flavor and texture. If you can’t find it, you can use brown rice or even quinoa, though cooking times will vary.
Chicken Broth: I prefer using chicken broth for added depth, but vegetable broth works well too, especially for vegetarian diets.
Butter: Unsalted butter enhances the flavor without making it too salty. If you’re dairy-free, olive oil is a great alternative!
Vegetables: The mix of onion, celery, and carrots creates a lovely base. Feel free to add in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or spinach!
Half-and-Half/Heavy Cream: I like using half-and-half for creaminess without being overly rich, but you can substitute with plant-based milk or cream for a lighter option.
How Do I Ensure My Soup Turns Out Thick and Creamy?
The key to a creamy soup is in the thickening process. After cooking your vegetables, adding flour is a crucial step. Here’s how to do it right:
- Cook the flour with the veggies for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw taste.
- Gradually whisk in broth to avoid lumps – this ensures a smooth consistency.
- Let the soup reach a gentle simmer after adding cream, which helps thicken it further.
- For even thicker soup, you can mash a portion of the wild rice and stir it back into the mix!
Enjoy making this creamy wild rice soup that’s perfect for sharing or savoring on your own!
The Best Creamy Wild Rice Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 cup wild rice blend
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half-and-half or heavy cream
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (optional for added protein)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy wild rice soup takes about 1 hour total. You’ll spend about 15 minutes preparing the ingredients, 50 minutes cooking and simmering, and then the soup is ready to enjoy. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Wild Rice:
Rinse the wild rice blend thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris. In a medium pot, combine the wild rice with 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 45-50 minutes until the rice is tender but still slightly chewy. Drain any excess liquid and set the rice aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In a large pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and sliced carrots. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
3. Add Mushrooms and Garlic:
Mix in the sliced mushrooms and continue to cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant.
4. Thicken the Soup Base:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine. Cook the mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to eliminate the raw flour taste. This step is important for the soup’s thickness!
5. Add Broth:
Slowly whisk in the remaining 2 cups of chicken broth. Make sure to avoid lumps as you mix. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until it begins to thicken, around 3-5 minutes.
6. Add Cream and Rice:
Stir in the half-and-half or heavy cream. Next, add the cooked wild rice and shredded chicken (if using). Mix everything well to combine.
7. Season and Simmer:
Add the thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer gently for another 10 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust any seasonings as needed. You want it to be seasoned just right!
9. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the creamy wild rice soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or thyme sprigs for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot along with some crusty bread for dipping and enjoyment!
Enjoy this hearty, creamy soup bursting with textures from wild rice, tender vegetables, and savory chicken! Perfect for sharing with family and friends or simply treating yourself on a cozy day!
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Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of Wild Rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for wild rice, but be aware that the cooking time will differ. Brown rice typically takes about 45-50 minutes to cook, so adjust your cooking time accordingly to ensure it’s tender.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the shredded chicken. You can still achieve a hearty flavor by adding more vegetables or beans for protein.
What Are the Best Storage Tips for Leftover Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving directly for best texture!
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! However, keep in mind that the cream may change texture upon thawing. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It should keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.