Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup

 

Ingredients:

• 6 cups vegetable stock (or chicken stock)
• 1 cup uncooked wild rice*
• 8 ounces baby bella mushrooms, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 ribs celery, diced
• 1 large sweet potato (about 1 pound), peeled and diced
• 1 small white onion, peeled and diced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
• 1 (14-ounce) can unsweetened coconut milk
• 2 large handfuls kale, roughly chopped, thick stems removed
• Fine sea salt and freshly-cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Instant Pot (Pressure Cooker) Method:

1. Combine base ingredients: In the Instant Pot, combine vegetable stock, wild rice, mushrooms, garlic, carrots, celery, sweet potato, onion, bay leaf, and Old Bay seasoning. Stir briefly to combine.

2. Pressure cook: Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual (high pressure) for 25 minutes. Allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure manually. Remove the lid and discard the bay leaf.

3. Add final ingredients: Stir in the coconut milk and kale until combined. Season with salt, pepper, and extra Old Bay seasoning if desired.

4. Serve: Ladle into bowls and serve warm.

Stovetop Method:

1. Sauté the veggies: In a large stockpot over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil. Sauté the onion for 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Add base ingredients: Stir in vegetable stock, wild rice, mushrooms, carrots, celery, sweet potato, bay leaf, and Old Bay seasoning. Bring to a simmer.

3. Simmer: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes until the rice is tender, stirring occasionally.

4. Add final ingredients: Add coconut milk and kale to the soup. Stir until kale is wilted and everything is well combined. Season with salt, pepper, and extra Old Bay seasoning if desired.

5. Serve: Ladle into bowls and serve warm.

Notes:

• *Wild rice cooking times can vary; adjust cooking time as needed based on package instructions.
• This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Flavors often deepen after resting overnight.
• Enjoy this hearty and flavorful soup on its own or with a side of crusty bread.

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This recipe provides a comforting and nutritious soup option, perfect for colder days or anytime you're craving a hearty meal.