Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup Recipe : Step By Step Guide

Wild rice soup is one of those timeless comfort foods that not only warm you up on chilly days but also provide a hearty, nourishing meal that leaves you feeling satisfied. If you’ve never had it before, wild rice offers a unique texture-chewy and nutty-that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, savory broth. When you prepare it in an Instant Pot, the process becomes even simpler, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

In this guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know to make a rich, flavorful Instant Pot wild rice soup. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying dinner, a meal prep option, or something to serve to guests, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Let’s break it all down, step by step, and make sure your wild rice soup turns out perfectly every time.

Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup Recipe

This recipe is an easy-to-follow, one-pot wonder that combines the earthy flavors of wild rice with a creamy base, making it a perfect dinner for busy weeknights. Here’s how you can whip up a comforting, healthy bowl of wild rice soup in no time.

Ingredients Needed

To make this Instant Pot wild rice soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Wild Rice (1 cup) – This is the star of the soup. Wild rice has a distinct nutty flavor and chewy texture that adds depth to the dish. Be sure to use real wild rice, not the cultivated version, which has a milder flavor and softer texture.
Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – Adds richness and helps sauté the veggies at the start.
Carrots (2 medium, diced) – These bring sweetness and a pop of color.
Celery (2 stalks, diced) – Adds crunch and a fresh, herbal note.
Onion (1 large, chopped) – Gives a savory foundation and depth of flavor.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Adds aromatic fragrance and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Vegetable Broth (4 cups) – Provides a light yet flavorful base for the soup. You can substitute chicken broth if you prefer a heartier flavor.
Heavy Cream (1 cup) – This will give the soup its rich and creamy consistency. For a lighter version, you can swap this with half-and-half or coconut milk.
Bay Leaves (2) – For an aromatic, herbal backdrop to the soup.
Thyme (1 tsp dried or 2 tsp fresh) – A classic herb that complements the wild rice and brings a comforting warmth to the soup.
Salt and Pepper (to taste) – For seasoning.
Lemon Juice (1 tbsp) – This brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity to balance the richness.
Spinach or Kale (optional, 1-2 cups) – Adding greens gives your soup extra nutrients and color. You can skip this if you prefer a more minimalist soup.

Cooking Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients lined up, let’s get cooking. Follow these steps for a foolproof wild rice soup:

Sauté The Vegetables

Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Add the olive oil. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened and the onions are translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add Broth And Seasonings

Stir in the wild rice, vegetable broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to combine everything.
Pressure Cook

Close the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to "Sealing." Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. After the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before turning the valve to "Venting" to release the remaining pressure.
Finish The Soup

Once the pressure has fully released, open the lid. Remove the bay leaves. Stir in the heavy cream and lemon juice, adjusting seasoning to taste. If you’re adding greens, fold them in now and let them wilt in the hot soup.
Serve And Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Garnish with fresh herbs, a sprinkle of cheese, or a drizzle of extra cream if desired.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s take a closer look at some of the key ingredients that make this soup so unique and comforting:

Wild Rice: Wild rice is actually not a true rice but a semi-aquatic grass, which is why it has a different texture and flavor from regular rice. It’s high in protein and fiber, making it a great option for a filling, healthy meal. It also contains essential minerals like magnesium, zinc, and iron.
Vegetable Broth: The broth is the backbone of the soup. A good quality vegetable broth adds depth and complexity, while homemade versions are the best if you have time. The broth balances the earthiness of the wild rice with savory umami flavors.
Heavy Cream: Cream adds a luxurious richness, making this soup comforting and hearty. While it makes the soup indulgent, you can control the richness by adjusting the amount or opting for lighter alternatives like coconut milk, which adds a subtle sweetness.
Lemon Juice: The slight acidity of lemon juice cuts through the creaminess of the soup, preventing it from becoming too heavy and bringing out all the other flavors.

Expert Tips

To make sure your Instant Pot wild rice soup turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips:

Use fresh garlic and herbs: Fresh ingredients like garlic, thyme, and bay leaves can really elevate the flavor. Dried herbs are okay, but fresh will give you a more vibrant, aromatic result.
Don’t overcook the wild rice: Wild rice can become mushy if overcooked, so make sure you stick to the 25-minute cook time and natural pressure release. This ensures the rice retains its chewy texture.
Cream alternatives: If you’re watching calories or prefer dairy-free options, coconut milk or almond milk are great substitutes for heavy cream, though they will bring a different flavor profile.
Adjust seasoning: Depending on your broth and personal taste, you may want to adjust the salt and pepper. Taste the soup before serving and tweak it to your liking.
Let it rest: Like many soups, this one benefits from sitting for a few minutes before serving. The flavors meld together beautifully, and the texture improves.

Recipe Variations

If you want to mix things up or adapt the recipe to suit different dietary preferences, here are some tasty variations:

Add Protein: For a more filling meal, add cooked chicken, turkey, or even sausage. You can sauté it with the veggies at the beginning or stir it in after cooking the soup.
Vegan Version: Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk and use vegetable broth. Leave out the cheese and replace it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a bit of heat by incorporating red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños into the sautéed vegetables.
More Greens: Boost the nutritional value by adding other leafy greens like Swiss chard or arugula. They cook down nicely in the soup, adding a peppery note.
Herb Variations: Try experimenting with different herbs like rosemary, sage, or parsley to tailor the flavor to your taste.

Final Words

Wild rice soup made in the Instant Pot is the epitome of a comforting, no-fuss meal. The pressure cooker works its magic by bringing out the deep, nutty flavor of the wild rice while making the whole process quick and easy. Plus, this soup is incredibly versatile-adjust it based on what you have in your pantry or what fits your dietary needs.

This recipe is great for meal prep, making it an ideal option for busy weeks when you want something homemade and nutritious. It’s filling, but still light enough to enjoy on its own or paired with a fresh salad or some crusty bread.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup?

To make Instant Pot wild rice soup, you’ll need wild rice, chicken broth, vegetables (like carrots, celery, and onions), garlic, herbs (such as thyme and bay leaves), butter, heavy cream, and salt and pepper for seasoning. You may also add chicken or sausage for protein.

How Do I Prepare Wild Rice For Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup?

Rinse the wild rice thoroughly before using it in the Instant Pot to remove any debris or excess starch. You do not need to pre-cook the wild rice, as the Instant Pot will cook it perfectly during the soup’s pressure cooking process.

Can I Use White Rice Instead Of Wild Rice In This Recipe?

While you can substitute white rice for wild rice, the texture and flavor will be different. White rice cooks faster than wild rice, so you would need to reduce the cooking time. Wild rice has a nutty flavor and chewy texture that complements the soup better.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup?

The total cook time for Instant Pot wild rice soup is about 30-40 minutes, including the time it takes to reach pressure. The actual cooking time under high pressure is typically around 25 minutes. After cooking, allow for a few minutes for the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure before opening.

Can I Freeze Leftover Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup?

Yes, you can freeze leftover wild rice soup. However, keep in mind that the texture of the rice may change slightly after freezing and thawing. To freeze, store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, add extra broth if needed to adjust the consistency.

What Can I Use As A Substitute For Heavy Cream In Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, coconut cream, or a combination of milk and a tablespoon of butter for a lighter version. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut milk can add creaminess and a subtle flavor.

How Do I Make The Soup Thicker In The Instant Pot?

To make the soup thicker, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender, or you can use a thickening agent like cornstarch or flour. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and stir it into the soup. Let it cook for a few minutes to thicken.

Can I Make Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup Without Chicken Broth?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth or even water as a substitute for chicken broth. However, using vegetable broth will yield a slightly different flavor. If you’re aiming for a richer flavor, adding more herbs or seasonings can help balance it out.

What Is The Best Way To Store Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup?

Store the Instant Pot wild rice soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. When reheating, add additional broth or water as needed to adjust the consistency.

Can I Add Protein Like Chicken Or Sausage To The Instant Pot Wild Rice Soup?

Yes, you can easily add protein like cooked chicken, sausage, or even turkey to the soup. If using raw chicken, add it at the beginning with the vegetables and broth. For sausage, brown it first in the Instant Pot using the sauté function before adding the other ingredients.