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A Must-Try Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup

When autumn arrives in all its golden glory, there's nothing more satisfying than curling up with a steaming bowl of soup. This Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup is the ultimate seasonal dish — warm, creamy, nourishing, and brimming with earthy flavors from fresh veggies and wild rice. Made with a rainbow of fall produce like sweet potatoes, carrots, kale, and baby bella mushrooms, and simmered in a coconut milk-infused broth, this soup is not just delicious — it’s plant-based, gluten-free, and utterly comforting. It's the kind of dish that warms both the body and soul after a crisp day outdoors.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🍄 Fruits & Vegetables
  • 8 oz baby bella mushrooms sliced
  • 1 large sweet potato peeled and cubed
  • 2 medium carrots chopped
  • 2 celery ribs chopped
  • 1 small white onion diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 large handfuls kale chopped (stems removed)
  • 1 bay leaf
🥫 Canned Goods
  • 14 oz unsweetened coconut milk full fat preferred
  • 6 cups vegetable stock low sodium
🌾 Pasta & Grains
  • 1 cup wild rice rinsed and drained
🧂 Baking Essentials & Spices
  • 1½ tbsp Old Bay seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste optional
This soup is both rustic and rich — thanks to coconut milk and the deep, earthy flavors from wild rice and mushrooms.

Equipment

  • To make this soul-soothing soup, gather:
  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board & chef’s knife
  • Vegetable peeler
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Ladle

Method
 

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
  1. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Veggies & Spices
  1. Stir in the mushrooms, sweet potatoes, and Old Bay seasoning.
  2. Mix everything well to coat in spices and let cook for 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
  1. Add vegetable stock, wild rice, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45–50 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Wild rice takes time to cook but rewards you with a chewy, nutty texture.
Step 4: Finish with Coconut Milk & Kale
  1. Once rice is tender, stir in coconut milk and chopped kale.
  2. Simmer uncovered for 5–10 minutes, just until kale wilts and soup thickens slightly.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
  1. Remove bay leaf before serving.
  2. Ladle soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or crackers.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Let soup cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Reheating:
Warm on the stove over medium-low heat or microwave individual bowls in 1-minute increments. Stir well.
Freezing:
This soup freezes well! Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in fridge overnight before reheating.
🥄 Variations
Add protein: Stir in cooked white beans, chickpeas, or shredded chicken for extra heartiness.
Creamier version: Blend a small portion of the soup before adding coconut milk to increase creaminess.
Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for warmth.
Herb twist: Mix in thyme, rosemary, or sage for more autumnal depth.
Low-carb: Swap wild rice with cauliflower rice and reduce simmer time accordingly.
❓ 10 FAQs
What is wild rice?
Wild rice is actually a seed from aquatic grass. It’s high in protein, nutty in flavor, and gluten-free.
Can I substitute the coconut milk?
Yes. Try oat milk, almond milk, or even dairy cream if you’re not vegan.
How do I keep the kale from getting too mushy?
Add kale in the last 5–10 minutes of cooking. It only needs to wilt slightly.
Do I need to soak wild rice first?
No soaking required — just rinse thoroughly before cooking.
Is this soup good for meal prep?
Definitely! It holds up well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day.
Can I use another type of rice?
You can, but adjust cook time accordingly. Brown rice is closest in texture.
Does this soup freeze well?
Yes! Portion into containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Is Old Bay seasoning necessary?
It adds a savory, spiced profile. You can substitute with your favorite herb/spice blend.
Can I add meat?
Sure — cooked chicken, sausage, or even ground turkey work well here.
What goes well with this soup?
Crusty sourdough, cornbread, or a simple green salad round out the meal.
🏁 Conclusion
When autumn breezes blow and you crave something wholesome, warm, and soul-soothing, this Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup is the answer. Loaded with seasonal veggies, bold spices, and creamy coconut richness, this plant-based recipe is both nourishing and indulgent.
It’s a one-pot wonder that welcomes endless customization and delivers every time. Whether you’re curling up with a bowl on the couch or prepping meals for the week, this soup brings the comfort of fall to your spoon — one delicious bite at a time.