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Wild Rice Pilaf

Wild Rice Pilaf
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This Wild Rice Pilaf recipe offers a perfectly fluffy, nutty, and flavorful side dish combining wild rice blend, aromatic sautéed vegetables, and fresh herbs. Easy to make, nutritious, and versatile, it’s ideal for family dinners or festive gatherings, pairing well with a variety of proteins and customizable to your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice and Broth

  • 1 cup wild rice blend (wild rice and brown rice)
  • 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth

Aromatics and Vegetables

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped

Fat and Flavor Enhancers

  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Finishing Touches (Optional)

  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or choice of rosemary, sage, dill)
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds or pecans, toasted
  • Optional add-ins: dried cranberries, raisins, chopped apricots, toasted walnuts, cooked chickpeas, diced chicken, sautéed mushrooms

Instructions

  1. Rinse and Toast the Rice: Rinse 1 cup of wild rice blend under cold water to remove excess starch. Toast the rinsed rice lightly in a dry pan over medium heat until it releases a warm, nutty aroma. This deepens the flavor and helps achieve a fluffy texture.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, building a savory flavor base.
  3. Add Rice and Broth: Stir the toasted rice into the sautéed vegetables, coating the grains well. Pour in 3 cups of vegetable or chicken broth, season lightly with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Simmer Until Tender: Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer gently for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the rice grains split open and become tender. Avoid stirring frequently to prevent mushiness. If the liquid evaporates too quickly, add a splash more broth or water.
  5. Fluff and Finish: Remove the pot from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the pilaf gently with a fork. Stir in fresh herbs and toasted nuts if using. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve warm.

Notes

  • Choose quality broth—homemade or low-sodium store-bought enhances flavor.
  • Do not skip toasting the rice; it locks in nutty essence and prevents clumping.
  • Use a tight-fitting lid to trap steam and cook rice evenly.
  • Keep the simmer low to prevent rice from breaking down and becoming mushy.
  • Allow the pilaf to rest off heat to finish cooking and create fluffier texture.
  • To keep it vegan, use olive oil and vegetable broth instead of butter and chicken broth.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 4 days, or freeze up to 3 months.
  • Reheat with a splash of broth or water to retain moisture and fluffiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: wild rice pilaf, wild rice recipe, healthy side dish, gluten free side, vegetarian pilaf, vegan pilaf option, easy rice recipe, wholesome side dish

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/wild-rice-pilaf/