Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup

Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup is a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. This healthy vegetarian soup combines mushrooms and spinach for a nourishing meal that is also vegan-adaptable and gluten-free. With its rich taste and hearty ingredients, it’s a comforting dish that satisfies both the body and soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With the Instant Pot, you can whip up this delicious soup in under an hour.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite veggies or add protein to suit your preferences.
• Flavorful Base: The combination of wild rice, mushrooms, and herbs creates a deeply satisfying flavor profile.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it great for make-ahead meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: Speeds up cooking time significantly while infusing flavors deeply.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for safely chopping veggies; ensures even cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Guarantees precise ingredient measurements for consistent results.

Ingredients

• 1 onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter or ghee)
• 4 garlic cloves, rough chopped
• 16 ounces mushrooms, sliced (cremini, button, portobellos)
• 1 cup wild rice (uncooked)
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 3-4 cups carrots, chopped large
• 3-4 cups celery, chopped
• 4 cups veggie broth (or 4 cups water plus 2-3 teaspoons veggie bouillon)
• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dry thyme)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon cracked pepper
• pinch cayenne, optional
• 1/8-1/4 teaspoon turmeric, for a golden color.
• ————
• 1/2 cup sour cream (or sub coconut milk, or cashew cream – see notes)
• 4 cups baby spinach, chopped (optional)
• Optional Garnishes: chopped flatleaf parsley and parmesan or try Gremolata or Arugula Pesto

How to Make Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Set Instant Pot to Saute Function. Add olive oil and diced onions along with sliced mushrooms. Stir them together for about 5–7 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Once the mushrooms release their liquid, cook for a couple more minutes until they begin to brown. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.

Step 3: Prepare Vegetables

While the mushrooms are cooking, chop carrots and celery. Once onions and mushrooms are softened, add uncooked wild rice. Sauté for one minute.

Step 4: Deglaze (Optional)

If desired, deglaze with white wine at this point by scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Cook off the wine for an additional minute.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add chopped carrots, celery, veggie broth, water, thyme, bay leaves, salt, pepper, cayenne, and turmeric to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 6: Pressure Cook

Set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for 24 minutes. Allow it to naturally release pressure for about 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.

Step 7: Add Creaminess

Stir in sour cream (or coconut milk/cashew cream). Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 8: Final Touches

Just before serving, stir in fresh chopped spinach. Serve warm with crusty bread and your choice of garnishes like parsley or parmesan.

How to Serve Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup

Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal with delicious accompaniments, here are some serving suggestions.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty artisan bread for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top your soup with freshly chopped flatleaf parsley or cilantro to add a burst of color and flavor.

Add a Protein

• Consider topping your soup with grilled chicken or tofu for added protein, making it even more filling.

Pair with a Salad

• A light green salad with vinaigrette can complement the richness of the soup, offering a fresh crunch.

Serve with Cheese

• Sprinkle grated parmesan or crumbled feta on top for a creamy texture and salty flavor contrast.

Offer Lemon Wedges

• Provide wedges of lemon on the side, allowing guests to squeeze fresh juice into their bowl for an extra zing.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup

To ensure your Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of the soup, so opt for seasonal produce when possible.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper levels to suit your preference. A little extra seasoning can make a big difference!
• Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking wild rice too long can lead to mushiness. Set the timer accurately for best results.
• Experiment with Broths: Try different veggie broths or homemade stocks to customize the overall taste of your soup.
• Incorporate Leftovers: If you have leftover veggies or grains, toss them in for added nutrition and variety.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup

Pairing sides with your Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread makes for an indulgent side.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce dressed in Caesar dressing pairs nicely and adds a crunchy texture.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice add flair and complement the soup’s flavors.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide additional nutrients and bring out natural sweetness.
5. Cheese Quesadillas: Quick and easy to prepare, cheesy quesadillas offer a comforting touch alongside your soup.
6. Simple Green Salad: A mix of greens topped with balsamic vinegar keeps things light while balancing the rich flavors of the soup.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins are perfect for dipping into your wild rice soup’s hearty broth.
8. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make a fun finger food that pairs perfectly with soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the sauté step: Not sautéing the onions and mushrooms can lead to a bland flavor. Always take time to develop those flavors first.
• Using too much liquid: Adding excessive broth or water can make your soup too thin. Stick to the recipe measurements for the best consistency.
• Overcooking the rice: Cooking wild rice for too long can result in mushy grains. Set your Instant Pot timer accurately to avoid this.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can leave your soup flat. Always taste before serving and tweak as necessary.
• Forgetting about garnishes: Skipping optional garnishes means missing out on extra flavor and presentation. Don’t forget to add fresh herbs or cheese before serving!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in your container.

Freezing Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute sour cream with coconut milk or cashew cream, and you will have a delicious vegan version.

How do I store leftover Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of wild rice?

You can use brown rice or quinoa as alternatives, though cooking times may vary. Adjust accordingly based on your choice.

Is this Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Ensure all ingredients used are certified gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.

How long does it take to cook wild rice in the Instant Pot?

Cooking wild rice takes about 24 minutes on high pressure in the Instant Pot, plus natural release time.

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that suits various dietary preferences. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different vegetables or spices based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a nutritious option, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table!