Nothing says comfort like curling up with a warm bowl of this Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe. Bursting with the earthy flavors of wild rice, seasonal vegetables, and a creamy yet zesty broth, this soup brings the essence of fall right to your table. Whether you’re looking for a vegan delight or a cozy creamy option, this recipe is a lifelong favorite that transforms humble ingredients into a soul-soothing meal perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an arrangement of cooking ingredients on a white marbled surface, organized neatly. In the center, there is a white bowl filled with black wild rice grains, with some grains spilled around it. To the left, there are whole carrots, celery stalks, kale leaves, and four brown mushrooms. Above the bowl with rice, there are garlic cloves, two white onion halves, a bay leaf, and two small amounts of ground spices on a white round plate. To the right of the bowl with rice, there is a white bowl with a creamy liquid, a small white pitcher with a golden liquid, and a small white plate with a block of butter. The entire scene has bright, natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple yet vibrant ingredients is the secret to making this soup shine. Each element plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color, making every spoonful a delightful experience.

6 cups vegetable stock (or chicken stock): The flavorful base that brings all ingredients together and adds depth.
1 cup uncooked wild rice: Adds a hearty, chewy texture and earthy taste that defines the soup.
8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, sliced: Bring umami richness and a meaty bite to the mix.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the broth with aromatic warmth and pungency.
2 medium carrots, diced: Provide subtle sweetness and bright orange color.
2 ribs celery, diced: Offer fresh crunch and a slight bitterness that balances the soup.
1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced: Brings creaminess and natural sweetness to every spoonful.
1 small white onion, diced: Creates a savory foundation when sautéed or simmered gently.
1 bay leaf: Imparts a subtle herbal note that enhances the overall flavor.
1 1/2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning: Introduces a zesty blend of spices that lift the soup beautifully.
1 (14-ounce) can unsweetened coconut milk: Adds luscious creaminess while keeping the soup vegan-friendly.
2 large handfuls of kale, roughly chopped with stems removed: Bring vibrant color, nutrients, and a slightly bitter bite.
Fine sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors perfectly.

How to Make Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe

Step 1: Combine Base Ingredients

Start by gathering your vegetable stock, wild rice, mushrooms, garlic, carrots, celery, sweet potato, onion, bay leaf, and Old Bay seasoning. If you’re using an Instant Pot, simply add them all to the pot and give a gentle stir to combine. This is where the magic begins — those fresh veggies and hearty rice form the heart of your Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe.

Step 2: Cook Until Tender

If using the Instant Pot, seal the lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing the rest. For stovetop lovers, sauté the onion and garlic first in a splash of olive oil until translucent and fragrant, then add the rest of the ingredients. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cover, letting it cook gently for 30 to 40 minutes until the wild rice is tender and the vegetables are perfectly cooked.

Step 3: Add Creamy Goodness and Greens

Once the rice and veggies are tender, discard the bay leaf and stir in the coconut milk and chopped kale. The coconut milk enriches the broth with silky creaminess, while the kale adds a beautiful pop of color and nutritional punch. Stir gently so the kale softens just enough without losing its bright energy.

Step 4: Taste and Season

This is the fun part — tasting your creation. Add fine sea salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and a bit more Old Bay seasoning if you want an extra kick. Adjusting seasoning to your liking makes this soup truly your own version of the Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle that warm, comforting soup into your favorite bowls and get ready to savor the season. Each spoonful offers a beautiful blend of textures and flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

How to Serve Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe

A white bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a colorful mix of ingredients. The bowl shows layers of light brown mushroom slices on the left, orange carrot cubes on the top right, small green celery pieces at the bottom right, and a heap of black wild rice in the center. Floating in a clear brown broth, there is also a single green bay leaf resting on the rice. The colors contrast well, making each ingredient stand out separately within the bowl, creating a fresh and healthy look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your soup presentation and texture, consider a few fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch, a drizzle of good olive oil for richness, or a handful of fresh parsley or thyme to brighten up the bowl with herbal notes. These little touches add interest and freshness to your Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe.

Side Dishes

Pair this soup with warm crusty bread or garlic herb focaccia for dipping into the creamy broth. A simple side salad with tangy vinaigrette can also complement the hearty nature of the soup and round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in mini pumpkin bowls for an autumnal feast or portion it into mason jars for an on-the-go lunch option. Sprinkling grated vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast on top is another fabulous way to add extra flavor and flair to the Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool your soup to room temperature and transfer to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it an excellent make-ahead meal for busy weekdays when you want something soothing without fuss.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully! Pour into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat over low to medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Because the wild rice may absorb extra liquid, add a splash of stock or water if the soup feels too thick. This keeps your Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe perfectly creamy every time.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?

Yes, brown rice can work, but it has a different texture and cooks faster. Adjust cooking time accordingly, or pre-cook the brown rice to avoid mushiness.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! Using vegetable stock and coconut milk keeps the soup vegan. For a creamier version, see the optional cream sauce alternative mentioned in the recipe.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free stock and seasonings. Wild rice and all veggies are gluten-free staples.

How spicy is the Old Bay seasoning in this soup?

Old Bay adds a gentle, warm spiciness packed with herbs and spices but is not overwhelmingly hot. You can adjust the amount to suit your heat tolerance.

What can I substitute for kale if I don’t have any?

Spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens are great substitutes. Just add them towards the end so they wilt gently without losing their bright color and texture.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a hug in a bowl that celebrates autumn’s bounty with every spoonful, the Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup Recipe is your new best friend. It’s easy to make, wonderfully versatile, and packed full of wholesome ingredients that nourish both body and soul. Give it a try and watch it quickly become one of your favorite seasonal go-tos!