Traditional Caribou and Rice Soup
Caribou Recipe
1Setup & Prepare
About This Recipe
Slow-simmered caribou bones create rich, nourishing broth enhanced with wild rice and vegetables. This warming soup captures the essence of northern comfort food while providing complete nutrition in a single bowl.
Cultural Context
This hearty soup represents the fusion of Indigenous caribou hunting traditions with fur-trade era ingredients like rice and onions. Developed in northern Canadian communities, it sustained families through harsh winters while stretching precious caribou meat to feed large groups economically.
2Ingredients
Shopping List
3Cooking Instructions
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Broth Making: Place caribou bones and meat in large stockpot with water. Bring to boil, then reduce to gentle simmer. Skim foam from surface.
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Simmering: Simmer uncovered for 2 hours, maintaining gentle bubbles. Add water as needed to maintain level.
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Straining: Remove bones and meat. Strain broth through fine-mesh strainer. Pick meat from bones and reserve.
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Vegetables: In clean pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, 8 minutes.
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Building Soup: Add strained broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to boil.
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Rice: Add wild rice and simmer 45 minutes until rice is tender.
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Finishing: Add reserved caribou meat. Simmer 10 minutes. Adjust seasoning.
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Service: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
4Chef's Notes & Pairings
Chef's Notes
- Save all caribou bones for stock making
- Wild rice adds authentic northern flavor
- This soup improves over several days
- Add more vegetables according to preference
Wine Pairing
Not traditionally paired. Serve with rustic bread and butter.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: 320 calories, 28g protein, 8g fat, 32g carbohydrates. Excellent source of complex carbohydrates and protein.
