If you are craving a bowl of warmth that comforts you from the inside out, look no further than this Creamy Wild Rice Soup with Vegetables and Herbs Recipe. It brings together the chewy, nutty goodness of wild rice with a medley of fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs, all enveloped in a luscious creamy broth. Whether you’re after a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or a wholesome meal prep option, this soup offers hearty satisfaction in every spoonful. Its layers of texture and flavor make it a true kitchen favorite that delights both the soul and the palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients form the heart of this soup, each adding a unique note to the final dish. Wild rice brings that signature chew and nuttiness, while fresh veggies keep the soup vibrant and nourishing. The herbs and cream elevate the flavor and texture, giving the soup its cozy depth.
- 1 cup uncooked wild rice: The star grain of the recipe, providing a chewy texture and earthy flavor.
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil: Essential for sautéing veggies and building richness.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens.
- 2 carrots, diced: Bring bright color and natural sweetness.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Introduce a subtle aromatic crunch.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Imparts a warm, savory kick that’s simply irresistible.
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth): The flavorful base that binds everything together.
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (optional): For added protein and heartiness.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings earthy, herbal notes that complement the rice perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds piney warmth and aromatic complexity.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: To season and balance flavors exactly right.
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half: Creates the creamy texture that makes this soup so comforting.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup to the perfect consistency.
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional): Adds earthiness and an extra layer of texture.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, bright touch to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Wild Rice Soup with Vegetables and Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Aromatics
Begin by rinsing the wild rice thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess starch and debris. Next, melt the butter or heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 to 6 minutes until they soften and release their sweet aromas. This step builds the soup’s flavorful foundation with tender, fragrant veggies.
Step 2: Adding Garlic and Mushrooms
Once your base vegetables are ready, stir in the minced garlic along with the optional mushrooms. Allow them to cook together for another minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant and the mushrooms soften. This layering enhances the complexity of the soup with subtle earthiness and a beautiful aroma.
Step 3: Incorporating Rice, Broth, and Herbs
Now, add the rinsed wild rice to the pot along with the chicken or vegetable broth. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer gently for 45 to 50 minutes, until the wild rice is tender and has absorbed those lovely herbal flavors.
Step 4: Creating the Creamy Base
While the rice simmers, whisk together the all-purpose flour and the heavy cream or half-and-half in a small bowl until smooth. Slowly pour this mixture into the soup, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. This is where your soup transforms into the rich and creamy texture that defines the Creamy Wild Rice Soup with Vegetables and Herbs Recipe. Let it simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes to thicken.
Step 5: Adding Chicken and Final Seasoning
If you choose to add cooked, shredded chicken, stir it in now. Let the soup simmer uncovered to heat through and thicken further. Taste one last time and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Your soup is now ready to warm up anyone lucky enough to sit down with a bowl.
How to Serve Creamy Wild Rice Soup with Vegetables and Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is the perfect finishing touch for this soup, adding a burst of color and a bright, herbal note. If you love a bit of texture contrast, consider sprinkling toasted pumpkin seeds or crispy bacon bits on top. A swirl of extra cream or a grating of sharp Parmesan cheese can also elevate the presentation and taste beautifully.
Side Dishes
This rich and hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread or warm rolls to soak up every last delicious drop. For a lighter side, a simple mixed green salad with a zesty vinaigrette creates refreshing balance. Roasted root vegetables or a crisp apple slaw can also complement the flavors and textures splendidly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls for a cozy, homey vibe or opt for elegant white china if you’re entertaining guests. For a charming touch, spoon it into hollowed-out mini pumpkins or round bread bowls. You can also ladle it over a toasted crostini for a sophisticated appetizer twist that surprises and delights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Since the soup thickens as it cools, you may want to stir in a splash of broth or water when reheating to return it to that perfect creamy consistency.
Freezing
To freeze this soup, it’s best to omit the cream beforehand. Freeze the soup base in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and add the cream while reheating gently on the stovetop. This method keeps your soup’s luxurious texture intact.
Reheating
Reheat the soup slowly over low heat, stirring frequently. Add broth or water as needed to adjust thickness, and stir in cream near the end to refresh the creamy texture. Avoid boiling the soup after adding the cream to keep it silky smooth and prevent curdling.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit the shredded chicken. The combination of wild rice, vegetables, and herbs still creates a wonderfully rich and hearty soup perfect for vegetarians.
What if I don’t have wild rice? Can I use brown rice instead?
You can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind the cooking time and texture will vary. Wild rice has a unique chewy texture and nutty flavor that brown rice cannot fully replicate. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the rice is tender.
How can I make the soup thicker?
For an even thicker soup, you can blend 1 to 2 cups of the soup until smooth and stir it back in. The flour and cream also help thicken the soup naturally, but blending adds extra body and creaminess.
Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch in place of the all-purpose flour for thickening. Ensure your broth and other ingredients are gluten-free as well. This way, you can enjoy the soup worry-free if you need to avoid gluten.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Fresh herbs are a wonderful option and can brighten the soup’s flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried. Add fresh herbs during the last 10 minutes of cooking to preserve their delicate aromas.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Wild Rice Soup with Vegetables and Herbs Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Its rich, comforting flavors and textured wild rice make it a go-to recipe for any season, especially when you need a little extra nourishment and coziness. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this soup a try—you might just find it becoming one of your cherished staples too!
Print
Creamy Wild Rice Soup with Vegetables and Herbs Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This creamy Wild Rice Soup is a hearty and comforting dish packed with tender wild rice, fresh vegetables, and rich savory flavors. Ideal for chilly days, meal prepping, or a simple family dinner, this classic American soup is filling, nourishing, and easily adaptable to vegetarian diets.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked wild rice
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (optional)
Cream Mixture
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (use gluten-free flour for gluten-free option)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Rinse Wild Rice: Thoroughly rinse the wild rice under cold running water to remove any debris or excess starch.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter or heat the olive oil. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5–6 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Add Garlic and Mushrooms: Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms if using, cooking for an additional minute to release their aromas.
- Combine Rice and Broth: Add the rinsed wild rice to the pot along with the chicken or vegetable broth, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Simmer Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for 45–50 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender and cooked through.
- Prepare Cream Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and heavy cream (or half-and-half) until smooth without lumps.
- Thicken Soup: Slowly pour the cream mixture into the simmering soup while stirring continuously to avoid clumps.
- Add Chicken and Simmer: If using, add the shredded cooked chicken to the soup. Simmer the soup uncovered for another 10 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the chicken.
- To make the soup thicker, blend 1–2 cups of the soup and return it to the pot.
- This soup stores well refrigerated for up to 4 days; it will thicken as it sits, so add extra broth when reheating.
- For best texture when freezing, omit the cream and add it fresh upon reheating.
- To make the recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free flour in the cream mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
