Name: cozy autumn wild rice soup Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Autumn
Ingredients: 6 cups; 1 cup uncooked; 8 ounces; 4 cloves; 2 medium; 2 ribs; 1 large; 1 small; 1; 1 1/2 tablespoons; To taste; 1 (14-ounce) can; 2 large handfuls

Jump to Recipe· 4.7 from 25 reviews

This cozy autumn wild rice soup wraps up everything you love about fall in one heartwarming bowl. With creamy coconut milk, earthy mushrooms, sweet potatoes, and a medley of vibrant vegetables, each spoonful is incredibly satisfying and irresistibly aromatic. Perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings, this vegan-friendly recipe delivers pure comfort and a taste of seasonal nostalgia. It’s a dish you’ll want to revisit all season long, sharing its warmth and wonderful flavors with family and friends.

cozy autumn wild rice soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this cozy autumn wild rice soup has a unique role, coming together to create rich flavor, hearty texture, and beautiful color. Don’t let the ingredient list intimidate you—they’re easy to find, and each one brings the soup’s fall-inspired personality to life!

Vegetable stock: A flavorful, plant-based foundation that lets all the fresh ingredients shine through.
Wild rice: Adds nutty flavor and chewy texture, making each bite satisfyingly hearty and distinctively autumnal.
Baby bella mushrooms: Offer earthy depth and a tender, meaty bite, perfect for plant-based comfort soup.
Garlic: Lends aromatic warmth and savory undertones—don’t skimp on these little flavor bombs.
Carrots: Bring subtle sweetness and vibrant color that brighten up the bowl.
Celery: Provides aromatic crunch and balances the rich, creamy base.
Sweet potato: Gives every spoonful a natural sweetness and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
White onion: Forms the flavor backbone; sauté until translucent for the best results.
Bay leaf: Infuses gentle herbal notes—remember to remove it before serving!
Old Bay seasoning: Adds bold, aromatic spice and depth that sets this soup apart from the average bowl.
Fine sea salt & freshly-cracked black pepper: Season to taste for a subtle lift and cozy finish.
Coconut milk (unsweetened): The secret to dreamy creaminess while keeping the dish totally vegan.
Kale: Toss in at the end for leafy brightness and a hearty nutrient boost.

How to Make cozy autumn wild rice soup

Step 1: Prep All Your Veggies

Start by washing and chopping everything into bite-size pieces—the more uniform, the better, for even cooking. Prepping ahead gets you set up for smooth, stress-free soup-making, and lets those colors truly pop in the final dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of oil over medium. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Stir occasionally and give them around 5 minutes to become tender and fragrant. This essential step deepens the base flavor of your cozy autumn wild rice soup.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer

Add the uncooked wild rice to your aromatic base, then pour in the vegetable stock. Drop in the bay leaf and sprinkle in the Old Bay seasoning. Stir well, bring to a gentle boil, then cover, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer undisturbed for about 30 minutes. This allows the wild rice to begin softening and absorbing those wonderful flavors.

Step 4: Add Sweet Potato, Mushrooms, and Coconut Milk

After your initial simmer, add the cubed sweet potato, sliced mushrooms, and torn kale leaves. Pour in the can of coconut milk and stir everything together. Let the soup bubble gently for another 15 minutes, just until the vegetables are perfectly tender and the flavors meld into a creamy, inviting pot of comfort.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve

Fish out the bay leaf and give your cozy autumn wild rice soup a hearty stir. Taste and adjust with salt and freshly-cracked black pepper as needed. Scoop into bowls and serve piping hot, preferably with good company and maybe a hunk of crusty bread on the side!

How to Serve cozy autumn wild rice soup

Garnishes

Finish each bowl of soup with a scattering of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a burst of color and extra fragrance. A swirl of coconut cream or a sprinkle of toasted pepitas also adds pretty visual appeal and complimentary flavor.

Side Dishes

This soup is a showstopper on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a loaf of crusty sourdough, homemade garlic bread, or a crisp apple and walnut salad. If you’re setting a bigger table, serve your cozy autumn wild rice soup alongside a roasted vegetable platter for a truly autumnal feast.

Creative Ways to Present

Ladle the soup into rustic mugs for casual gatherings, or serve in hollowed-out small pumpkins for a festive autumn centerpiece. Individual soup crocks with baked cheesy toasts on top make this dish feel extra luxurious and dinner party-ready.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cozy autumn wild rice soup holds up beautifully in the fridge. Transfer cooled soup into airtight containers and enjoy within 4 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

If you want to savor these autumn flavors later, freeze cooled soup in portion-sized containers. Wild rice will continue to absorb liquid, so simply add a splash of stock or water when reheating to revive that perfect creamy consistency.

Reheating

Warm leftover soup in a pot over gentle heat, stirring often to avoid sticking. If it thickens up in the fridge, just add a little extra stock or coconut milk until it’s velvety and ladleable once again.

FAQs

Can I substitute the wild rice with another grain?

Absolutely! Brown rice, farro, or barley can stand in nicely, though wild rice brings the most autumnal flavor and hearty chew to the soup.

Is the soup spicy from the Old Bay seasoning?

Old Bay offers bold flavor with very gentle heat, making the soup aromatic rather than spicy. Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne if you love a little extra kick!

Can I make this soup oil-free?

Yes, you can sauté the veggies in a few tablespoons of vegetable broth instead of oil to keep it completely oil-free and lower in fat.

What other greens work instead of kale?

Chopped baby spinach, Swiss chard, or even collard greens can step in for kale—add them toward the end of simmering so they stay vibrant and tender.

How can I add protein to cozy autumn wild rice soup?

For more protein, stir in cooked lentils, chickpeas, or white beans. Crispy roasted tofu on top also makes a hearty plant-based addition!

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving warmth, comfort, and a big dose of fall flavors, this cozy autumn wild rice soup should absolutely be on your menu. Whether you share it at the family table or enjoy it solo wrapped in a blanket, it’s bound to bring a little extra joy to your autumn season. Don’t wait—grab your favorite soup pot and let those wonderful fall aromas fill your kitchen!