Description
A flavorful and hearty Thanksgiving Wild Rice dish featuring tender wild rice simmered in broth, combined with sautéed vegetables, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans for a festive side perfect for holiday meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Broth
- 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Other
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the wild rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the wild rice and broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat to start the cooking process.
- Simmer rice: Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice simmer for 45-50 minutes until tender and the liquid is absorbed. Then remove from heat and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced celery, and chopped carrots. Cook for 7-8 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly softened.
- Add thyme and combine rice: Stir fresh thyme leaves into the cooked vegetables, then add the cooked wild rice to the skillet. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Incorporate cranberries and pecans: Add the dried cranberries and toasted pecans to the skillet mixture, stirring until everything is evenly combined and warmed through.
- Season: Taste the wild rice mixture and season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Serve: Transfer the mixture to a serving dish and garnish with additional fresh thyme leaves for a festive presentation.
Notes
- To toast pecans, heat them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- You can prepare the wild rice a day ahead to save time on serving day; reheat gently with a splash of broth or water.
- To add extra flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or orange zest along with the cranberries.
