Name: Turkey Wild Rice Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Unsalted butter (¼ cup); Yellow onion (1 medium, diced); Carrots (2 large, diced); Celery (4 ribs, diced); Garlic (2 teaspoons, minced); Kosher salt (½ teaspoon); Ground pepper (½ teaspoon); All-purpose flour (¼ cup); Turkey or chicken broth (6 cups); Wild rice (1 cup, uncooked, rinsed, drained); Cooked turkey (3 cups, chopped into bite-sized pieces); Heavy whipping cream (1 cup); Parsley; Salt and pepper

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The aroma of simmering Turkey Wild Rice Soup fills the air, a warm embrace that promises comfort in every spoonful. With rich, creamy broth, tender chunks of turkey, and the delightful chew of wild rice, this inviting soup is perfect for cozy evenings. As the golden hues of autumn leaves dance outside, I can’t help but think of coming together with family around the dinner table, laughter mixed with the savory scent wafting from the kitchen. This dish has become a family favorite, passed down from my grandmother, filled with memories of chilly nights when she would make this heartwarming soup. Let’s gather our ingredients and create our own warm moments with this delicious Turkey Wild Rice Soup!

Table of Contents

Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Turkey Wild Rice Soup
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Turkey Wild Rice Soup

If you’re on the hunt for a simple yet flavorful recipe, look no further. This soup checks all the boxes:

Simple & Quick: Ready in just over an hour, it’s an easy addition to busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: Creamy, savory, and loaded with fresh vegetables and tender turkey—everyone will be asking for seconds!
Eye-Catching Appeal: Its earthy tones make for a visually stunning dish that warms both the heart and the eyes.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a comforting midnight snack.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily made gluten-free or dairy-free with simple substitutions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Unsalted butter (¼ cup): This forms the base of your soup, providing richness. You can replace it with olive oil for a healthier option.
Yellow onion (1 medium, diced): Adds depth and sweetness. If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for a shallot.
Carrots (2 large, diced): Sweet and vibrant, carrots add color and nutrition. Baby carrots can be used as a quick substitute.
Celery (4 ribs, diced): Brings a lovely crunch and fragrant aroma. Feel free to use leeks for a different flavor profile.
Garlic (2 teaspoons, minced): Essential for that aromatic touch; fresh garlic elevates the dish, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.
Kosher salt (½ teaspoon) and ground pepper (½ teaspoon): Season to taste, enhancing all the flavors in the soup.
All-purpose flour (¼ cup): Helps thicken the soup; for a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead.
Turkey or chicken broth (6 cups): The backbone of the soup. Homemade broth is always best, but low-sodium boxed broth is a great alternative.
Wild rice (1 cup, uncooked, rinsed, drained): Offers a nutty flavor and chewy texture. You can substitute with brown rice if desired.
Cooked turkey (3 cups, chopped into bite-sized pieces): A fantastic way to use leftovers; rotisserie chicken is an excellent substitute for an easy fix.
Heavy whipping cream (1 cup): Provides creamy richness. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk.
Parsley: A pop of freshness for garnish.
Salt and pepper: Always ready to adjust to your flavor preference.

How to Make Turkey Wild Rice Soup

Prepare the Base: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it’s bubbly and fragrant. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, stirring occasionally until they soften—about 5 to 7 minutes. The delicious aroma that fills your kitchen is simply irresistible! Toss in the minced garlic, kosher salt, and pepper, and cook for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant, making sure not to brown it. This aromatic base sets the stage for a delightful soup.

Add Flour and Broth: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes. This gives the soup its luscious texture. Gradually pour in the turkey broth while continuing to stir to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing all those flavors to meld together beautifully. You’ll see the soup start to thicken, creating a cozy atmosphere in your kitchen.

Incorporate Wild Rice: Once the broth is simmering, add the uncooked wild rice to the pot. Remember to rinse and drain it first, as this helps rid it of excess starch and results in a fluffier texture. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 40-50 minutes. During this time, your kitchen will begin to smell like a warm hug, and patience will be rewarded!

Add Turkey and Cream: Stir in the cooked turkey and heavy whipping cream after the wild rice is tender. Allow everything to come together for another 10-15 minutes over low heat. The cream adds a wonderful richness that elevates the soup from good to absolutely mouthwatering. Stir occasionally and taste for seasoning; adjusting salt and pepper can elevate the flavors even further!

Garnish & Serve: Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. A sprinkle of additional salt and pepper can enhance each serving, making each bowl a unique experience. Enjoy this delightful **Turkey Wild Rice Soup** warm and paired with your favorite crusty bread or a fresh salad on the side. It’s the perfect way to bring warmth to your day!

Storing & Reheating

Leftover Turkey Wild Rice Soup stores beautifully! Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can stay at room temperature for about two hours before needing refrigeration. In the fridge, it’ll last for about 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just note that the texture may change slightly when thawed, but reheating it on the stove over low heat for 10-15 minutes should refresh its flavors beautifully.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Steer Clear of Overcooking the Rice: Wild rice can become too mushy if cooked too long, so keep an eye on it during the simmering stage!
Make It Ahead: This soup actually tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead—perfect for meal prep!
Custom Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs and spices! A bit of thyme or sage can bring a lovely depth to the soup.
Texture Trouble?: If the soup thickens too much, add a splash more broth or cream during reheating; adjust to personal preference.
Vegetable Boost: This is a versatile dish! Feel free to add in any leftover veggies or greens you might have on hand for extra nutrition.

Enjoying a bowl of this rich, creamy Turkey Wild Rice Soup is like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a chilly day. Whether it’s sizzling on the stove on a mild autumn day or bubbling away during the holiday season, each bowl tells a story of comfort and warmth. Don’t hesitate to make it your own—experiment with different herbs or add extra veggies. Invite family or friends to share, and watch everyone smile as they savor the flavors. So grab your ingredients and let the soup magic happen!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use leftover turkey for this soup?

Absolutely! Leftover cooked turkey is perfect for this soup, adding rich flavor and saving you time. If you don’t have turkey, rotisserie chicken works wonderfully too!

What type of rice is best for this recipe?

Wild rice is the star of the show here, providing a unique texture and nutty flavor. However, if you can’t find wild rice, brown rice can be substituted. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! To make this Turkey Wild Rice Soup dairy-free, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative. This will still give you a creamy texture without the dairy!

How can I store this soup for later use?

To store, let the soup cool down completely and place it in airtight containers. You can refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stove over low heat!