Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting, nourishing dish to warm you up on a crisp day, look no further than this Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup. Bursting with earthy wild rice, tender sweet potatoes, savory mushrooms, and a hint of spice from Old Bay seasoning, this soup wraps you in a blanket of flavors that celebrate the best of the season. The addition of creamy coconut milk and fresh kale makes it both velvety and vibrant, perfect for cozying up with a bowl full of autumn goodness. Whether you prepare it on the stovetop or in your Instant Pot, this recipe promises a soul-soothing experience you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the secret to this soup’s irresistible taste and texture. Each ingredient brings its own magic—from nutty wild rice and hearty sweet potatoes to the rich creaminess of coconut milk and the fresh bite of kale, every component plays a vital role in crafting a perfectly balanced bowl.

• 6 cups vegetable or chicken stock: The flavorful base that infuses the soup with depth and warmth.
• 1 cup uncooked wild rice: Adds a chewy, nutty texture that makes the soup truly special.
• 8 oz baby bella mushrooms, sliced: Earthy and meaty, they deepen the savory profile.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced: Brings aromatic warmth that enhances every bite.
• 2 medium carrots, diced: Adds natural sweetness and a pop of color.
• 2 celery ribs, diced: Offers subtle earthiness and crunch.
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced: Creamy, sweet, and full of autumn vibes.
• 1 small white onion, diced: The flavor foundation, lending sweetness and depth.
• 1 bay leaf: A fragrant herb that subtly lifts all the flavors.
• 1½ tbsp Old Bay seasoning: Adds a warm, slightly spicy kick perfect for fall.
• 1 can (14 oz / 400 ml) unsweetened coconut milk: Creates a rich, creamy texture without overpowering.
• 2 large handfuls kale, chopped and de-stemmed: Fresh and slightly bitter, it brightens the soup and packs in nutrients.
• Fine sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing every ingredient.

How to Make Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

Start by dicing your carrots, celery, sweet potato, and onion. Slice the mushrooms and mince the garlic cloves. This prep work ensures everything cooks evenly and develops its full flavor potential.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Instant Pot

Add the stock, uncooked wild rice, mushrooms, garlic, carrots, celery, sweet potato, onion, bay leaf, and Old Bay seasoning right into your Instant Pot. Give everything a good stir to blend those beautiful autumn flavors before cooking.

Step 3: Pressure Cook for Rich Flavor Development

Seal the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. After cooking, allow a natural release for 10 minutes—this rest period helps deepen the flavors—then quickly release the remaining pressure for safety.

Step 4: Finish With Coconut Milk and Kale

Remove the lid and fish out the bay leaf. Stir in the creamy coconut milk and the chopped kale. The kale will wilt gently, adding a lovely green freshness and some earthiness to the soup. Finish by seasoning with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Stovetop Alternative: Simmering the Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup

If you prefer stovetop cooking, sauté the onion in oil or butter until translucent, then cook the garlic briefly. Add your stock, rice, vegetables, bay leaf, and seasoning, bringing everything to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook until the rice is tender, about 30 to 40 minutes. Stir in coconut milk and kale and simmer until the kale is just wilted. This method offers hands-on control and delivers equally delicious results.

How to Serve Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup

Garnishes

To elevate your soup even more, consider adding a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch, or a drizzle of extra coconut milk swirled on top for a pretty presentation and a touch of creaminess with every spoonful. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can add a burst of bright, fresh flavor that balances the earthy soup.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with a crusty artisan bread or warm cornbread to soak up all the flavorful broth. A crisp autumn salad with apples, walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette can bring a refreshing contrast and round out your meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, serve your Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup in mini pumpkin bowls or rustic mugs. You can also offer toppings like grated sharp cheddar or a dollop of sour cream on the side so everyone can customize their bowl. It’s a heartwarming presentation that makes the meal feel even more special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your soup, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen after resting, making for even tastier eating the next day.

Freezing

This soup freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. When stored properly, your Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer, making it a fantastic make-ahead meal for busy nights.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If it has thickened during storage, stir in a splash of broth or coconut milk to loosen the texture and bring back its silky, comforting consistency.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice in this Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup?

While wild rice is traditional and adds great texture and flavor, you can absolutely substitute with brown rice or a rice blend. Keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly for tender results.

Is this soup suitable for vegans?

Yes! Simply use vegetable stock and ensure your Old Bay seasoning contains no animal products, and the soup is entirely plant-based thanks to the coconut milk and veggies.

Can I make this soup creamy without coconut milk?

Definitely. You could substitute with heavy cream or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream. Blending a portion of the soup before adding liquid is another way to achieve a creamy, luscious texture.

How can I boost the protein content in this soup?

Add cooked beans such as cannellini or chickpeas, or toss in shredded cooked chicken if you’re not keeping it vegan. This will give the soup more substance while maintaining its cozy feel.

What is the best way to store leftovers to keep the wild rice texture intact?

Store the soup separately from any additional stock or liquids you plan to add when reheating, to prevent the rice from becoming too mushy. Add the liquids gradually upon reheating to keep the texture perfectly al dente.

Final Thoughts

This Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup has quickly become one of my all-time favorite recipes to welcome the season. It’s comforting, full of texture and vibrant flavors that celebrate every aspect of autumn’s bounty. I encourage you to try making it soon — gather your ingredients, enjoy the process, and savor a bowl of warmth that feels like a hug from the inside out. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

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