Brown 'n' Wild Rice Soup

Brown 'n' Wild Rice Soup Recipe | USA | Slivered Almonds

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Brown 'n' Wild Rice Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This soup is packed with flavor and texture, making it a satisfying meal on its own or as a starter to a larger meal.

History

This recipe for Brown 'n' Wild Rice Soup has been a favorite in many households for years. It combines the nutty flavor of brown rice with the earthy taste of wild rice, creating a delicious and nutritious soup that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

0.33 cup butter or margarine
0.5 cup sliced green onions
0.5 cup shredded carrots
0.5 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups cooked brown rice
0.5 cup cooked wild rice
0.5 cup minced ham
0.25 tsp ground white pepper
0.25 tsp thyme
1 cup half and half
1 tbsp dry sherry (optional)
0.25 cup toasted slivered almonds for garnish

How to prepare

Melt the butter in a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Cook the onions and carrots until they are tender-crisp. Blend in the flour and gradually stir in the broth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil. Boil, stirring, for 1 minute. Stir in the brown rice, wild rice, ham, pepper, and thyme. Simmer, uncovered, for about 5 minutes. Stir in the half-and-half and sherry. Garnish each serving with almonds.

Variations

Add in cooked chicken or turkey for a protein boost.
Swap out the ham for cooked bacon for a smoky flavor.
Stir in some fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the onions and carrots until they are tender-crisp to ensure they add the perfect amount of flavor and texture to the soup.

- Toasting the almonds before garnishing the soup adds an extra layer of flavor and crunch.

- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding in your favorite vegetables or proteins for a unique twist on this classic soup.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Brown 'n' Wild Rice Soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to stir constantly when adding the broth to the flour mixture to prevent lumps from forming.

- Simmer the soup uncovered to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this soup.

- Substitute coconut milk for the half-and-half for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Brown 'n' Wild Rice Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each serving of Brown 'n' Wild Rice Soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Brown 'n' Wild Rice Soup with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer like a Pilsner for a perfect match.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Brown 'n' Wild Rice Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Brown 'n' Wild Rice Soup contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Brown 'n' Wild Rice Soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Brown 'n' Wild Rice Soup contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Brown 'n' Wild Rice Soup contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Brown 'n' Wild Rice Soup is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (half-and-half) and nuts (almonds).

Summary

Brown 'n' Wild Rice Soup is a nutritious and delicious meal that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Brown 'n' Wild Rice Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Packed with flavor and texture, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a chilly autumn day, the leaves rustling in the wind as I flipped through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I turned the yellowed pages, a faded recipe caught my eye - Brown 'n' Wild Rice Soup. Intrigued, I read through the ingredients and instructions, feeling a spark of excitement at the thought of trying something new in my kitchen.

I had always loved cooking, ever since I was a young girl helping my mother in the kitchen. Over the years, I had collected recipes from friends, family, and cookbooks, each one holding a special place in my heart. But there was something about this particular recipe that drew me in, whispering promises of warmth and comfort in every spoonful.

I set to work gathering the ingredients - wild rice, mushrooms, carrots, celery, onions, chicken broth, and a few simple seasonings. As I chopped and sautéed, the familiar scents of garlic and thyme filled the air, wrapping me in a cocoon of nostalgia. I could almost hear my mother's voice guiding me through the steps, her hands moving deftly as she showed me how to stir a pot just right or adjust the seasoning to taste.

As the soup simmered on the stove, I took a moment to reflect on the journey that had brought me to this point. I had learned to cook not just out of necessity, but out of a deep love for the act of creation. There was something magical about taking raw ingredients and transforming them into something delicious, something that could nourish both body and soul.

The timer beeped, pulling me out of my reverie. I ladled the steaming soup into a bowl, garnishing it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The first spoonful brought a rush of warmth and flavor, the nutty richness of the wild rice mingling with the earthy mushrooms and sweet vegetables. I closed my eyes, savoring the moment, feeling a sense of accomplishment wash over me.

From that day on, Brown 'n' Wild Rice Soup became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, for cozy nights in with a good book, and for friends in need of a little comfort. Each time I stirred the pot, I felt a connection to the long line of women who had come before me, passing down their knowledge and love through the simple act of cooking.

Years passed, and the recipe became a part of me, a touchstone in a world that was always changing. I added my own twists and variations, experimenting with different herbs and spices, but the heart of the soup remained the same - a warm bowl of nourishment and love, just waiting to be shared.

Now, as I sit at my kitchen table, the cookbook open in front of me, I can't help but marvel at the journey that brought me to this moment. The recipe for Brown 'n' Wild Rice Soup is more than just a collection of ingredients and instructions - it's a story, a memory, a reminder of the power of food to bring us together and nourish our souls.

And so, as I take another sip of the soup, feeling its warmth spread through me, I give thanks for all the women who came before me, who shared their recipes and their love, and who taught me the true joy of cooking. The memory of finding this recipe for the first time will always bring a smile to my face, a reminder of the magic that happens when we gather around the table and share a meal made with love.