Discover the delightful flavors of our Wild Rice Pilaf with Pecans and Dried Cranberries—a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience! This American classic is not only visually stunning with its rich colors and textures, but it also packs a nutritious punch, making it the perfect side dish for any meal or a light main course on its own. Imagine the nutty aroma of wild rice mingling with the sweetness of dried cranberries and the crunch of toasted pecans—your taste buds are in for a treat! Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup wild rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the wild rice thoroughly under cold running water to remove any debris or excess starch.
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the rinsed wild rice to the pan and stir to coat the grains with oil, toasting them lightly for 1-2 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Pour the vegetable broth into the pan with the rice and onions. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 35-40 minutes.
- While the rice is cooking, toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and lightly golden, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Set aside.
- Check the rice for doneness - it should be tender but still have a slight bite. If liquid remains, continue cooking for a few more minutes until absorbed.
- Once rice is cooked, remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes to allow remaining moisture to be absorbed.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, then gently fold in the toasted pecans and dried cranberries.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Transfer to a serving dish and serve warm as a delicious side dish or light main course.
Tips
- Rinse the Rice: Don’t skip rinsing the wild rice! This step removes any debris and excess starch, ensuring a fluffier texture once cooked.
- Sauté for Flavor: When sautéing the onions, aim for a golden color. This caramelization adds depth and sweetness to the dish.
- Toast the Rice: Toasting the wild rice in olive oil before adding the broth enhances its nutty flavor, making each bite more delicious.
- Check for Doneness: Wild rice should be tender yet slightly chewy. If there’s still liquid after the cooking time, let it simmer a bit longer.
- Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans in a dry skillet brings out their natural oils and flavors, adding an irresistible crunch to your pilaf.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let the rice sit covered for a few minutes. This helps absorb any remaining moisture for the perfect consistency.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. A little seasoning goes a long way in enhancing the flavors of this dish.
- Serve Warm: This pilaf is best served warm, making it a comforting addition to any meal, especially during gatherings or holiday feasts.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 174kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
