Creating Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup is a pleasurable process when you follow these simple steps:

1. Rinse Wild Rice: Begin by rinsing the wild rice under cold water to remove any debris.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in Broth: Add the vegetable broth and bay leaf to the pot, bringing it to a boil.
5. Cook Wild Rice: Once boiling, add the rinsed wild rice. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until rice is tender but still chewy.
6. Incorporate Mushrooms: If using, add the sliced mushrooms to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
7. Add Greens: Stir in the chopped kale or spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted.
8. Season to Taste: Remove the bay leaf, taste the soup, and season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
9. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

These steps will guide you in creating this incredible soup effortlessly. The aromatic ingredients will create an inviting atmosphere in your kitchen!