Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup: 10 Irresistible Cozy Tips

If Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup sounds like exactly what your chilly weeknights need… you’re in the right kitchen. This bowl is cozy, creamy (without dairy!), and hearty enough to count as a full meal—no sad side salad required.

As a busy home cook myself, I know the feeling of staring into the fridge at 5:30 p.m. thinking, “Okay, what can I make that’s comforting, not complicated, and my family might actually eat?” This Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup is one of those magical recipes that checks all the boxes:

  • Simple ingredients
  • Easy steps
  • Big flavor
  • Leftovers that taste even better the next day

And yes, even though I’m usually all about chicken on Chicken Magic Recipes, this plant-based beauty won my heart—and my family’s bowls.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup

Let’s talk about why this Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup deserves a spot in your regular rotation:

  • It’s a one-pot wonder. Less mess, fewer dishes, more time to do literally anything else.
  • Hearty and satisfying. Wild rice gives it a lovely chew and keeps you full.
  • Pumpkin without the pie. All the cozy fall flavor, none of the sugar crash.
  • Easy to customize. Add greens, swap the coconut milk, adjust the spices—make it yours.
  • Perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch on Sunday and lunch is solved for days.

This soup is the kind of recipe you’ll reach for whenever the temperature drops, you’re feeling a little worn out, or you just want your kitchen to smell like a hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Alright, time to talk shopping! Here’s your grocery list for this scrumptious Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup:

  • 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin purée (plain, not pumpkin pie filling)
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup coconut milk (optional, for creaminess)

These ingredients are easy to find, and you might already have some lurking in your pantry—especially that can of pumpkin you bought for pie season and never used. This is its moment to shine.

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup

I know you’re eager to get started, so let’s break it down step by step—like a cooking show, but without the TV drama (unless you count dropping a carrot on the floor, which absolutely still counts).

1. Heat Up the Flavor

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks.

Let those veggies mingle and build flavor—they’re the base of your Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup, so think of this as setting the stage.

2. Garlic Goodness

Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant.

You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells so good that other people start wandering in asking, “What are you making?”

3. The Heart of the Soup

Now it’s time to bring the stars in:

  • Stir in the wild rice.
  • Add the pumpkin purée.
  • Pour in the vegetable broth.
  • Sprinkle in the thyme and sage.

Give everything a good stir, making sure the pumpkin dissolves into the broth.

Turn the heat up and bring the soup to a gentle boil.

4. Simmer Time

Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender.

The wild rice will open up and soften, the pumpkin will deepen in flavor, and the broth will absorb all those cozy herbs.

5. Add a Creamy Touch (Optional but Glorious)

If you’re feeling a bit indulgent—or you just like a richer, creamier soup—stir in 1 cup of coconut milk.

It gives your Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup a silky texture and a gentle hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.

Who doesn’t love a little extra richness in their bowl?

6. Season to Perfection

Now it’s time for the most important step: taste as you go.

Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir, taste, adjust.

Don’t skip this part; it’s the difference between “pretty good soup” and “wow, I need seconds.”

7. Serve It Up

Ladle this lovely concoction into bowls and serve hot.

You can top it with:

  • A drizzle of coconut milk
  • Cracked black pepper
  • Toasted pumpkin seeds
  • Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme

Then sit down, take a breath, and enjoy. You’ve absolutely earned it.

Cooking Tips for the Best Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup

Let’s make this even easier—and a little more fun:

  • Rinse the wild rice. This helps remove extra starch and keeps your soup from getting too cloudy.
  • Use good veggie broth. Since there’s no meat in this soup, the broth carries a lot of the flavor. If your broth tastes bland, your soup will, too.
  • Don’t panic about thickness. If your soup looks too thick, add a bit more vegetable broth or water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes. No stress.
  • Coconut milk trick: If you’re not sure you want it creamy, start with ½ cup of coconut milk, taste, and add more if you like.
  • Make it extra hearty. Stir in a handful of baby spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes of cooking, or add a can of drained chickpeas for extra protein.
  • Batch cook for busy weeks. Double the recipe and freeze half in portions. Future you will be so grateful.

And don’t worry if your soup doesn’t look Instagram-perfect. If it smells good and tastes good, it’s perfect enough.

Spoonful of creamy Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup with mushrooms, carrots, and herbs.
A rich, flavorful spoonful of Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup, loaded with veggies and wild rice.

A Little Story From My Kitchen

This Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup actually started as a “clean out the pantry” experiment. I had:

  • Half a bag of wild rice
  • A lonely can of pumpkin
  • Veggies that needed to be used today, not tomorrow

I threw everything into a pot, added my favorite herbs, and crossed my fingers.

By the time the simmering was done, my kitchen smelled like fall and comfort had a flavor. My family dipped in some crusty bread, went quiet for a few minutes (the best compliment), and then someone said, “You should definitely write this one down.”

So here we are. From my slightly chaotic, always hungry home to yours.

FAQs About Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup

Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?

Yes, you can, but the texture will be different. Wild rice is chewier and holds up beautifully in soup. If you swap in brown rice, you may need to adjust the cooking time (usually 30–40 minutes) and check for doneness earlier.

Can I make this Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, it might taste even better the next day as the flavors blend together. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it gets too thick.

Does this soup freeze well?

Yes, Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup freezes nicely. Let it cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove. If it separates a little, just stir it well as it warms.

Can I make this without coconut milk?

Definitely. The coconut milk is optional. Without it, the soup will still be flavorful, just less creamy. You can also use another plant-based milk (like oat milk) for a softer, mild creaminess.

How can I add more protein?

You can:
Stir in a can of chickpeas or white beans (rinsed and drained)
Add tofu cubes, either straight in or lightly pan-seared first
Serve it with a side of crusty whole-grain bread for a more filling meal

Bring This Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup to Your Table

When life feels a little hectic and you’re craving something warm, grounding, and nourishing, this Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup is ready to step in.

It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight, cozy enough for a Sunday evening, and special enough to share with friends and family. One pot, everyday ingredients, and a bowl full of comfort—what more could you ask for?

So grab that can of pumpkin, let the wild rice work its magic, and make this Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup your new go-to cozy meal. And when you do, I’d love to hear how it turned out in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

More Cozy Recipes You’ll Love

If this Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup warmed your soul, you’re going to adore these delicious comfort bowls and autumn-inspired favorites. They’re perfect for those days when you want something cozy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying—just like this recipe. Here are a few tasty options your readers can discover next:

  • Craving another hearty, soul-hugging bowl? Try my Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Wild Rice Soup—it’s rich, earthy, and perfect for chilly evenings.
  • If you’re still in a pumpkin mood (honestly, who isn’t?), my Pumpkin Chili brings all the warm spices and fall coziness you could want.
  • For a veggie-packed dish that tastes like a warm hug from the garden, check out the Ratatouille Soup—colorful, nourishing, and so comforting.
  • And if you love creamy soups with a little global flair, my Thai Coconut Red Lentil Soup is an absolute must-try.

Feel free to add this section right after your conclusion—your readers will appreciate the extra inspiration for their next cozy meal!

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Spoonful of creamy Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup with mushrooms, carrots, and herbs.

Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup


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  • Author: Aneta
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

A warm, creamy Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup filled with tender vegetables, earthy mushrooms, hearty wild rice, and cozy fall flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, chilly days, and nourishing meals everyone will love.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup wild rice, rinsed

  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin purée

  • 1 onion, diced

  • 2 carrots, diced

  • 2 celery stalks, diced

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 6 cups vegetable broth

  • 1 teaspoon thyme

  • 1 teaspoon sage

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 cup coconut milk (optional)


Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook 5–7 minutes, until softened.

  2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.

  3. Stir in the wild rice, pumpkin purée, vegetable broth, thyme, and sage. Bring to a gentle boil.

  4. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender.

  5. Stir in the coconut milk (if using) for extra creaminess.

  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • Add a handful of spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra greens.

  • If the soup becomes too thick, stir in additional broth or water.

 

  • Soup thickens naturally as the wild rice absorbs liquid—great for leftovers!

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
  • Calories: 235 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 640 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

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