This creamy turkey wild rice soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With tender turkey, hearty wild rice, and a mix of fresh veggies, it’s cozy and filling.
There’s nothing like a big bowl of this soup on a chilly day. I love how simple it is to make, and it’s perfect for using up leftover turkey. Yum! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wild Rice Blend: This ingredient adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture to the soup. If you can’t find a blend, you can use brown rice or quinoa instead, but adjust the cooking time as they may differ.
Turkey: Leftover turkey is perfect for this soup. If you don’t have turkey, shredded chicken works just as well, or you can use canned chicken for convenience!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk. Coconut milk can also be a great dairy-free option, adding a unique flavor.
Herbs: Dried thyme and sage are wonderful for this soup’s flavor. If you have fresh herbs, use those instead for even more vibrant flavors. Just double the amount as fresh herbs are milder.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Veggies?
Sautéing your veggies helps develop their flavors. Start by heating your olive oil or butter in a pot over medium heat. Then, add the diced onions, celery, and carrots. Cook until they’re softened, about 5-7 minutes. This gentle cooking brings out their natural sweetness.
- Don’t rush this step—it’s key for a flavorful base.
- Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
- Once the veggies are soft, add garlic for an extra burst of flavor.
Enjoy making this comforting soup, perfect for family gatherings or chilly nights!
Creamy Turkey Wild Rice Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup wild rice blend (uncooked)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups turkey or chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon dried sage (or 1 tablespoon fresh sage)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy turkey wild rice soup will take about 1 hour in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation and another 50 minutes for cooking, so it’s quite quick for a hearty meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Wild Rice:
Start by rinsing the wild rice under cold water to remove any dust. In a medium pot, combine the rice with 3 cups of your broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 40-50 minutes until the rice is tender. If there’s any liquid left after cooking, drain it away.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
While your rice is cooking, grab a large soup pot and heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes until they’re nice and softened. This makes your soup base full of flavor!
3. Add Garlic:
Once the veggies are soft, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes. You’ll love the delicious smell as the garlic cooks!
4. Combine Everything:
Now pour in the remaining 3 cups of broth into the pot. Add the cooked wild rice and then the shredded turkey, thyme, sage, and bay leaf. Give everything a good stir to mix it together.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Then, lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for around 15 minutes. This gives all the flavors a chance to meld together beautifully!
6. Add Cream:
After simmering, carefully remove the bay leaf from the soup. Stir in the heavy cream and heat through, but don’t let it come to a full boil to prevent curdling. You’re looking for a nice, creamy texture!
7. Season and Serve:
Finally, season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color! Enjoy your creation with some crusty bread for dipping!
This creamy turkey wild rice soup is the ultimate comfort food with rich flavors and a velvety texture. Perfect for sharing with family and friends!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken works just as well in this soup. Just make sure it’s shredded or diced to match the texture of turkey.
What Can I Use as a Substitute for Wild Rice?
If you can’t find wild rice, you can use long-grain brown rice or even quinoa. Just keep in mind that the cooking times may vary, so check for doneness according to the package instructions.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to help restore the creaminess.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Of course! Substitute the turkey with cooked beans or lentils, and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also add more vegetables for an extra hearty dish.
