Cozy Up with Minnesota’s Creamy Wild Rice Soup Recipe – A True Taste of the North

In the land of 10,000 lakes, where crisp air and serene forests make every season special, there's a dish that holds a place of honor in Minnesota’s kitchens: Creamy Wild Rice Soup. This comforting bowl of goodness is more than just food—it's a symbol of Minnesota’s heritage, especially with wild rice being the state grain. Whether you’re warming up after a day in the snow or just craving something hearty and delicious, Minnesota’s Creamy Wild Rice Soup is the perfect answer.

Photo byNick Davies

Wild rice, which isn’t technically rice but a seed from an aquatic grass, has been a staple in Minnesota for centuries, cherished by Native American communities and passed down through generations. Known for its earthy flavor and slightly chewy texture, wild rice pairs perfectly with creamy broth, fresh vegetables, and tender pieces of chicken or mushrooms, making this soup an all-time favorite.

Recipe: Minnesota’s Creamy Wild Rice Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
• 1 lb chicken breasts (optional, for a meaty version)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour (for thickening)
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Begin by cooking the wild rice according to package directions. Typically, this involves simmering it in water for about 45 minutes until tender. Drain any excess water and set aside.
2. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the mushrooms and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they begin to release their juices.
4. If using chicken, add the chicken breasts to the pot and pour in the broth. Add the bay leaf and thyme, bringing everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
5. Remove the chicken from the pot, shred it with forks, and return the shredded chicken to the pot. If you prefer a vegetarian version, skip this step.
6. Stir in the cooked wild rice.
7. In a separate small pan, melt the butter and whisk in the flour, cooking for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Slowly add the heavy cream, whisking constantly until thickened.
8. Pour the cream mixture into the soup, stirring until well combined. Let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes to meld the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers.

The Heart of Minnesota in Every Bowl

This Creamy Wild Rice Soup is more than just a meal—it's a reflection of Minnesota’s rich culinary history. The creamy texture of the broth, combined with the hearty wild rice and savory vegetables, creates a satisfying dish perfect for cold winter nights or family gatherings. Whether you make it with tender chicken or keep it vegetarian with just mushrooms and veggies, this soup delivers a true taste of the North.

From the first spoonful, you’ll experience the warm, homey flavors that have made this recipe a Minnesota classic. So, gather your ingredients, stir up a pot of this comforting soup, and enjoy a bowl of Minnesota heritage.

Sources:

Creamy Wild Rice Soup - Lake of the Woods (lakeofthewoodsmn.com)

Minnesota Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup - Avidly Ravenous