Description
This Wild Rice Pilaf is a hearty, flavorful side dish featuring a blend of wild rice cooked to perfection with sautéed celery, carrots, and onions. Enhanced with vegetable broth and fresh parsley, it offers a nutritious and comforting addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 3/4 cup diced onion
Grains & Broth
- 1 1/2 cups wild rice blend
- 2 2/3 cups vegetable broth
Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 – 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and sauté vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced celery, onion, and carrots. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes or until the onions become translucent and the vegetables soften.
- Toast the wild rice: Add 1 1/2 cups wild rice blend to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to combine and allow the rice to toast slightly in the oil until it absorbs the oil, enhancing its flavor.
- Add broth and cook the rice: Pour in 2 2/3 cups vegetable broth and cover the skillet with a lid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low to allow the rice to simmer gently. Cook for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Let the rice rest: Remove the skillet from heat but keep it covered. Let the rice rest and absorb any remaining liquid for 5 to 10 minutes.
- Fluff and garnish: Use a fork to fluff the rice gently. Stir in or sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pilaf before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- You can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for a richer flavor if not vegetarian.
- For added texture and taste, consider adding toasted nuts or dried cranberries.
- Ensure to keep the lid on while simmering to trap steam and cook the rice evenly.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 recipe
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
