As I stirred a pot of my latest creation, a wave of comforting aromas washed over me, instantly whisking me back to cozy autumn evenings. This Creamy Dairy-Free Wild Rice Soup is not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that combines hearty vegetables with the nutty richness of wild rice. Perfectly plant-based and free of dairy, this versatile soup offers a nourishing alternative to those heavy cream-laden versions we often see. With its quick prep time and the ability to be enjoyed as a delightful entrée or a side dish, it’s sure to win over even the pickiest of eaters. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into making this soul-soothing soup that’s as healthy as it is delicious!

Why is this Wild Rice Soup a Must-Try?

Comforting and nourishing, this soup is like a warm embrace on a chilly day. Quick prep means you can whip it up in no time, perfect for busy weeknights! Flavor-packed with earthy mushrooms and fresh herbs, each spoonful is a delightful burst of taste. Versatility allows for endless variations; swap ingredients to create your ideal blend! Plus, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep — store it in the fridge or freeze for later. Elevate your dinner table with a dish that everyone will love! If you’re on the hunt for more hearty soups, check out my recipes for Mexican Soup Flavorful or Shepherds Pie Soup.

Wild Rice Soup Ingredients

• Indulge in flavors with this comforting wild rice soup!

For the Creamy Base

Unsweetened Almond Milk – Perfect for creaminess; any plant-based milk can substitute.
Raw Cashews – Add a rich texture; soak them for an ultra-smooth blend if desired.
Cooked Cannellini Beans – Provides protein; great northern beans or chickpeas make excellent alternatives.
White Miso Paste – Introduces umami flavors; tahini can be used for a different twist.
Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy kick; regular mustard works in a pinch.

For the Soup

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing; substitute with your favorite neutral oil.
Scallions – Bring in freshness; onions or shallots can be swapped in.
Celery – Provides crunch; omit if making a smaller batch.
Carrot – Adds sweetness; parsnip offers a delightful alternative.
Cremini Mushrooms – Infuse earthiness; use portobello or button mushrooms as substitutes.
Sea Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust it according to your taste.
Garlic Cloves – Adds depth; fresh is best, but garlic powder can work too.
Minced Rosemary – Infuses the soup with herbal notes; half the amount of dried rosemary is sufficient.
Thyme – Adds aromatic richness; replace with Italian seasoning if needed.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Introduces heat; white pepper offers a milder choice.
Water – Acts as a base liquid; vegetable broth enriches the flavor.
Cooked Wild Rice – Adds a nutty texture; use any cooked rice if you’re in a pinch.
Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens up the soup; lime juice can offer a refreshing variation.
Chopped Kale – Boosts nutrition and color; swap with Swiss chard or spinach if preferred.

Optional Garnishes

Chopped Parsley – Perfect for a fresh finish; any herb works well.
Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a touch of spice; leave out for those sensitive to heat.

This Wild Rice Soup is a delightful and nourishing option, perfect for cozy nights in!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Dairy-Free Wild Rice Soup

Step 1: Prepare Creamy Base
In a blender, combine 2 cups of unsweetened almond milk, ¾ cup of soaked raw cashews, 1 cup of cooked cannellini beans, 2 tablespoons of white miso paste, and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Blend this mixture on high until smooth and creamy, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Once achieved, set this delicious creamy base aside as it will enrich the wild rice soup later on.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add ½ cup of sliced scallions, 1 cup of diced celery, 1 cup of diced carrots, and 2 cups of chopped cremini mushrooms. Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of sea salt and sauté these vegetables for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have softened and released their juices, filling your kitchen with inviting aromas.

Step 3: Simmer Soup
Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of minced rosemary, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme into the sautéed vegetables. Next, add 4 cups of water (or vegetable broth for more flavor), along with the remaining 1 cup of cooked cannellini beans and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then cover and let it simmer for 20 minutes to meld the flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Incorporate Creamy Base
After simmering, remove the thyme sprigs and stir in the creamy base prepared in Step 1. Add 2 cups of cooked wild rice, the juice of 1 lemon, and 2 cups of chopped kale into the soup. Allow everything to simmer on low heat for an additional 5 minutes, just until the kale becomes vibrant and tender, infusing the wild rice soup with color and nutritious goodness.

Step 5: Serve
Before serving your delightful Creamy Dairy-Free Wild Rice Soup, taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a dash of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. This heartwarming dish is best enjoyed immediately, but it’s perfect for meal prepping too!

Wild Rice Soup Variations & Substitutions

Invite your culinary creativity to shine as you explore delightful twists on this comforting bowl of goodness!

Grain Swap: Substitute wild rice with quinoa or barley for a new texture and flavor profile.
Veggie Boost: Add diced butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness and additional nutrients.
Leafy Greens: Replace kale with Swiss chard or spinach, adapting to what you have on hand.
Nut-Free: Omit cashews for a lighter broth, using an extra cup of beans for the perfect texture instead.
Creamy Cauliflower: Blend steamed cauliflower with almond milk for an even creamier base that packs a veggie punch.
Flavor Enhancements: Stir in smoked paprika or cumin for an extra layer of warmth and depth.
Chili Heat: Add fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers for a spicy upgrade that’ll warm you up during the colder months.
Fresh Herbs: Substitute rosemary and thyme with fresh cilantro or parsley to create a refreshing twist on flavors.

For more hearty delights, don’t miss out on my comforting Sausage Tortellini Soup or the flavorsome Potato Bacon Soup. Each option is sure to make any meal feel extra special!

Storage Tips for Wild Rice Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. Let the soup cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the wild rice soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Leave some space for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to adjust the consistency.
Avoid Thickening: If the soup thickens upon refrigeration or freezing, simply stir in a bit more water or broth while reheating to restore its creamy texture.

Expert Tips for Wild Rice Soup

Perfect Creaminess: Blend the almond milk and cashews thoroughly for a smooth base. Soak cashews overnight for an even creamier texture.
Avoid Thickening: If preparing in advance, the soup may thicken. Add water or vegetable broth, a cup at a time, to reach desired consistency before serving.
Flavor Boost: Adjust herbs like rosemary and thyme to personal taste; use fresh where possible for maximum flavor. Dried herbs are typically more potent, so reduce the quantity by half.
Texture Control: For a chunkier soup, reserve some wild rice and beans to fold in just before serving. This provides variety in each bite.
Serving Suggestions: Pair your wild rice soup with crusty bread for a satisfying meal. A fresh salad can brighten the meal and introduce extra nutrients.

Make Ahead Options

This Creamy Dairy-Free Wild Rice Soup is a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the creamy base (almond milk, cashews, cannellini beans, miso, and Dijon mustard) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, the sautéed vegetables can be prepped and stored for up to 3 days in the fridge. When it’s time to enjoy, simply cook the soup by adding water or broth to the simmering sautéed mixture, stir in your creamy base, cooked wild rice, and kale, then heat until warm. Rest assured, this soup will still be just as delicious and comforting, making it a perfect solution for feeding the family with ease!

What to Serve with Creamy Dairy-Free Wild Rice Soup

Pairing this cozy bowl of soup with delightful sides enhances your meal experience.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of the creamy soup, adding a satisfying crunch.
Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers brightens the meal and complements the hearty soup wonderfully.
Garlic Breadsticks: The warm, buttery flavor of garlic breadsticks provides a delicious contrast to the creamy texture of the soup.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies adds flavor diversity and textural interest, making your meal even more satisfying.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic, gooey goodness of grilled cheese pairs excellently with the savory, earthy notes of the wild rice soup.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp offers a sweet finish to your meal. The fruity sweetness complements the savory flavors in the soup beautifully.

Creamy Dairy-Free Wild Rice Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of wild rice should I use for this soup?
Using a blend of wild rice adds depth, but you can substitute any cooked rice variety if needed. Long grain or brown rice work well and will still provide a lovely texture.

How should I store leftovers of the wild rice soup?
Store your creamy wild rice soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Ensure the soup has cooled to room temperature before sealing to lock in freshness.

Can I freeze this creamy wild rice soup? How?
Absolutely! For freezing, transfer the soup into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Leave some space at the top of the containers to allow for expansion as the soup freezes.

What if my soup thickens after refrigerating?
No worries! If you find that your soup thickens upon refrigeration, simply stir in 1 cup of warm water or vegetable broth while reheating. This will help restore that creamy, delicious texture.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, you can! The ingredients listed are primarily gluten-free, but ensure your vegetable broth and any condiments (like miso paste) are labeled gluten-free to avoid any gluten exposure.

Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
The recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it friendly for those with lactose intolerance. However, it does contain nuts (raw cashews), which may be a concern for those with nut allergies. Substitute with sunflower seeds or omit them if necessary.