The appeal of Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup comes from its earthy aroma, creamy texture, and the deep savory layers that only hearty grains and browned mushrooms can deliver. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a warming bowl that feels both rustic and refined, while still being easy enough for everyday cooking.

Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup: A Comforting, Flavor-Rich Classic

Author: Cindy
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

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Description

A creamy, savory, vegetable-rich soup made with wild rice, mushrooms, herbs, and Parmesan for a deeply comforting bowl.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 yellow onion, finely chopped

¾ cup finely chopped carrots

½ cup finely chopped celery

8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced

4 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup dry wild rice blend

1 tablespoon herbs de Provence (or poultry seasoning substitute)

1 teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

1 cup water

⅔ cup heavy cream (or homemade cashew cream)

⅓ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. If using heavy cream, allow it to come to room temperature. If using cashew cream, make it now by soaking ⅓ cup raw cashews in ⅔ cup boiling water and blending until smooth.

2. In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 8 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in mushrooms and garlic. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are tender and slightly browned.

4. Add wild rice and stir to coat. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes to lightly toast the rice.

5. Mix in herbs de Provence, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the vegetable broth and 1 cup water. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.

6. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 45 to 60 minutes, until the rice is fully cooked and tender.

7. Remove the lid and stir in the cream of choice. Gradually add Parmesan, stirring continuously until fully incorporated.

8. Serve warm with your favorite crusty bread.

Notes

For a dairy-free option, replace heavy cream with cashew cream. Add extra broth when reheating as the rice continues to absorb liquid.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Category: Soups
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup Basics for Home Cooks

What Makes Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup Naturally Creamy

The natural starch released from the grains thickens the broth as it simmers, giving this dish a luxurious feel even before cream is added. When the mushrooms cook down, they provide extra body and richness that blend seamlessly with the tender rice.

Choosing the Best Wild Rice Blend for Rich Flavor

A quality wild rice blend delivers nutty depth, color, and texture. Look for blends that combine long-grain wild varieties with brown or red rice to create a balanced bite that holds up well in hot broth.

How Mushrooms Enhance the Depth of Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup

Cremini mushrooms add hearty flavor while maintaining their form throughout cooking. As they sauté, they release savory juices that deepen the broth, creating the foundation for a deeply satisfying bowl.

Key Ingredients That Elevate Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup

Aromatics and Vegetables That Build the Base

A combination of onion, carrots, and celery forms a classic aromatic trio. These vegetables soften and sweeten as they cook, creating a mellow base that supports the stronger flavors of herbs and mushrooms.

Choosing the Right Mushrooms for Texture and Warmth

Cremini mushrooms offer the best balance of tenderness and bold flavor. Their dense bite adds substance to the soup, preventing the final dish from feeling too soft or overly creamy.

Broth, Herbs, and Seasonings for a Balanced Bowl of Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup

Herbs de Provence or poultry seasoning deliver subtle floral and savory notes that elevate the broth. Vegetable broth keeps the dish vegetarian, while Parmesan provides a finishing layer of umami that ties everything together.

Perfecting the Cooking Method for Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup

Sautéing Vegetables for Maximum Flavor Development

Sautéing the aromatics in butter and oil ensures a flavorful base. The vegetables should soften without browning, allowing their sweetness to infuse the pot while leaving room for the mushrooms to shine.

Simmering Wild Rice for Ideal Tenderness

Wild rice requires more time than other grains, so slow simmering is essential. As it cooks, the grains open, soften, and release starch, transforming the broth into a creamy and cohesive mixture.

Finishing the Soup with Cream and Parmesan for Silky Comfort

Stirring in heavy cream or cashew cream provides a velvety finish. Parmesan melts evenly into the broth, rounding out the flavors and adding a layer of richness that makes each spoonful satisfying.

Serving and Pairing Ideas for Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup

Best Side Dishes to Serve with a Hearty Bowl

A warm slice of crusty bread, a side salad with bright vinaigrette, or oven-roasted vegetables pairs beautifully with the soup’s creamy base and savory personality.

How to Add Protein or Vegetables for a Fuller Meal

This dish adapts easily: add shredded rotisserie chicken, white beans, or sautéed kale for a more filling meal. These additions complement the textures without overwhelming the soup.

Creative Ways to Repurpose Leftover Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup

Leftovers can become the base for a casserole, a pot pie filling, or a creamy grain bowl. Add extra broth to enjoy it as a lighter soup the next day.

Storage, Freezing, and Meal-Prep Tips

How to Refrigerate Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup Without Losing Texture

Store the soup in airtight containers for up to four days. The grains continue to absorb liquid after cooking, so you may want to add a splash of broth before reheating.

Freezer Tips for Long-Term Storage

The soup freezes well for up to two months, especially when stored without dairy. Add the cream after thawing to maintain the smooth texture.

Reheating Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup for Best Results

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir in broth to loosen the consistency and maintain the dish’s silky finish.

Creamy wild rice and mushroom soup in a bowl with fresh herbs — A warm and comforting bowl of wild rice and mushroom soup.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Uncle Ben’s wild rice and mushroom soup?

This variation typically uses a boxed rice blend for convenience. While flavorful, making the soup from scratch delivers a richer and more customizable result.

How do I make a Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup Test Kitchen–style version?

A Test Kitchen-style approach emphasizes deeply sautéed mushrooms, carefully toasted rice, and a slow simmer that allows the flavors to blend naturally. This recipe already follows those principles.

Can I make this soup dairy-free without losing creaminess?

Yes. Cashew cream blends seamlessly into the broth and offers a thick, silky finish that rivals dairy. It’s an excellent choice for a plant-based meal.

Does wild rice take longer to cook than other grains?

It does. Wild rice has a firm outer layer that softens slowly. The extended cooking time helps the soup thicken naturally and enhances the overall texture.

Conclusion

Why This Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup Belongs in Your Weekly Rotation

This dish strikes the ideal balance between comfort and nourishment. Its wholesome grains, tender vegetables, and savory broth make it a staple worth revisiting.

Final Tips for Consistently Great Results

Taste as you go, adjust seasonings, and allow the soup to simmer long enough for the grains to fully open. These small details ensure a consistently flavorful result.

How to Customize This Recipe for Your Taste

Add fresh herbs, substitute different mushroom varieties, or adjust the creaminess level to suit your preferences. The flexibility of this recipe ensures it fits any table.

Internal Links (Naturally Embedded)

Try pairing this dish with the cozy Italian flavors in this hearty sausage and bean soup for a comforting dinner rotation.
For another warming bowl, explore this cheese dumpling tomato soup that delivers a uniquely satisfying twist.

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