Description

Wild Rice Pilaf is a flavorful, nutritious side dish that combines nutty, chewy wild and brown rice with aromatic herbs, sautéed vegetables, and subtle spices. Easy to prepare and versatile, this pilaf pairs well with a variety of main dishes and can be customized to fit dietary preferences, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice Blend

1 cup wild rice blend (wild rice and brown rice mix)

Aromatics

1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Vegetables

1 carrot, finely chopped
1 celery stalk, finely chopped

Liquids

3 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth

Herbs & Seasoning

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste

Fats

2 tablespoons butter or olive oil (for toasting and sautéing)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Toast the Rice: Start by lightly toasting the wild rice blend in butter or olive oil over medium heat. This step brings out the nutty flavor and adds a lovely aroma that sets the tone for the whole dish.
Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Remove the toasted rice and set aside. In the same pot, sauté finely chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until soft and fragrant, creating a flavorful base for the pilaf.
Add Rice and Broth: Return the rice to the pot and pour in the broth. Stir well to combine, season with salt and pepper, and bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer Until Tender: Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 45 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has absorbed.
Finish with Fresh Herbs: Fluff the pilaf with a fork and stir in freshly chopped herbs for brightness. Adjust seasoning as needed, and it’s ready to serve hot and delicious.

Notes

Rinse the Rice: Briefly rinse the wild rice blend to remove any starch and ensure fluffier grains.
Use Quality Broth: The broth quality impacts the flavor significantly; homemade or low-sodium store-bought works best.
Don’t Skip Toasting: Toasting the rice is crucial for enhancing nuttiness and preventing mushy results.
Keep It Covered: Simmer rice covered to trap the steam and cook evenly.
Fluff Gently: Use a fork to fluff the pilaf before serving to keep textures light and separate.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 230
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 10mg