The Best Instant Pot Spiced Wild Rice and Coconut Soup

Craving a Bowl of Warmth and Wonder?

Imagine a soup that’s both comforting and exotic, a delightful mix of earthy wild rice, creamy coconut, and aromatic spices. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, and you can have it simmering on your stovetop (or rather, your Instant Pot!) surprisingly easily. This Instant Pot Spiced Wild Rice and Coconut Soup is naturally delicious, simple to make, and absolutely impressive.

Why You’ll Love It

It’s naturally flavorful, thanks to the unique combination of wild rice, coconut milk, and warming spices.
This recipe is incredibly easy and quick to make, especially with the help of an Instant Pot.
The creamy texture and nutty wild rice make it a wonderfully satisfying and hearty meal.
It’s vegetarian and vegan-friendly, making it suitable for a wide array of dietary preferences.
The spices naturally provide a gentle heat that makes it perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave something cozy.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

This isn’t just any soup. We’re using wild rice, which naturally has a nutty, chewy texture that adds a lot of character. The Instant Pot allows the rice to cook perfectly and quickly, while also infusing all those lovely flavors. What really makes it special is the blend of spices – ginger, cumin, and coriander – which come together for a naturally aromatic and warming experience. The coconut milk adds a creamy richness, making it truly irresistible.

Ingredient List

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, peeled and minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup wild rice, rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk
1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Set your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add the olive oil, and once it’s heated, add the chopped onion. Cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
Add the rinsed wild rice and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
Close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Set it to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” for 25 minutes on high pressure.
Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
Carefully open the lid, and stir in the full-fat coconut milk, salt, and black pepper.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime (if desired).

Optional Toppings/Variations

Feel free to personalize your soup with these tasty additions:

Toasted Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top for extra texture and flavor. Simply toast shredded coconut in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown.
Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted sweet potato or butternut squash for a sweet and earthy note. Roast diced vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
Spinach or Kale: Stir in fresh spinach or kale at the end for added nutrients and color. Cook until wilted.

Expert Tips

Be sure to rinse the wild rice thoroughly before cooking to remove any excess starch. This helps to prevent clumping.
For a richer flavor, use full-fat coconut milk. You can naturally use light coconut milk if you prefer a lighter consistency.
Taste and adjust the salt and pepper at the end. Spices can vary in intensity, so season to your personal preference.
If the soup appears too thick after cooking, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
If you don’t have an Instant Pot, you can prepare this soup on the stovetop. Simmer the ingredients in a pot for 45-50 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I substitute brown rice for wild rice?
Yes, you can. Brown rice will work, but it will have a different texture. You may need to adjust cooking times. Brown rice needs less cook time. Also, wild rice is naturally higher in protein and fibre.
Can I use light coconut milk instead of full-fat?
Absolutely! Light coconut milk will naturally give you a lighter consistency and fewer calories, but the soup may not be as creamy.
How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add a pinch or two of cayenne pepper, a few extra red pepper flakes, or a chopped jalapeño while cooking to add more heat. Naturally, adjust to your spice preference.
How long will this soup last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, this soup will naturally keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. Cool it completely, and then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for 2-3 months. Thaw naturally in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations and Customization Options

Want to shake things up? Here are some ideas to naturally customize this soup:

Add protein: Include chickpeas, lentils, or tofu for a protein boost. Add them with the rice or at the end.
Try different spices: Experiment with garam masala, turmeric, or a curry powder for diverse flavor profiles.
Add some greens: Stir in chopped kale or spinach at the end for added nutrients and color.
Make it creamy: Stir in a tablespoon of cashew cream at the end to enhance the creamy texture.
Boost the citrus: Use lime juice in the end for a burst of fresh citrus flavor to brighten up the overall dish.

Serving Suggestions

This Instant Pot Spiced Wild Rice and Coconut Soup is a wonderfully versatile dish. Serve it as a comforting lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a light appetizer. It’s great on its own, or you can pair it with a side of crusty bread, a fresh salad, or some naan bread for dipping. The naturally complex flavors and textures make it a welcome addition to any meal.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Spiced Wild Rice and Coconut Soup is a naturally flavorful, easy, and impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a delicious way to bring warmth and comfort to your kitchen. Why not give it a try? Share your creations and let us know what you think! If you’d like, subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes like this!

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