why make this recipe
Wild rice pilaf is a simple and delicious dish that makes a wonderful side or a light main course. It’s healthy, packed with veggies, and full of flavor. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a nutritious option that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re having a family dinner or preparing for a potluck, wild rice pilaf is a tasty choice that everyone will enjoy.
how to make Easy Wild Rice Pilaf
Ingredients:
- 1 cup wild rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Rinse the wild rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion in olive oil until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the diced carrots and celery and cook for about 3 minutes until they are slightly softened.
- Add the rinsed wild rice and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the pot and simmer for about 45 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Fluff the pilaf with a fork, mix in the fresh thyme leaves, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
how to serve Easy Wild Rice Pilaf
You can serve wild rice pilaf as a side dish with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a hearty vegetable stew. It also makes a great base for vegetarian meals when topped with grilled vegetables or a simple salad. For best results, serve it warm, allowing the flavors to shine through.
how to store Easy Wild Rice Pilaf
If you have leftovers, store the wild rice pilaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. Just add a splash of water or broth to moisten it as it heats.
tips to make Easy Wild Rice Pilaf
- Rinse the wild rice well before cooking to remove any debris or excess starch.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- To enhance the taste, try adding a splash of soy sauce or lemon juice before serving.
variation
You can easily customize this pilaf by using different herbs like rosemary or parsley instead of thyme. If you want a nuttier flavor, consider toasting the wild rice in olive oil for a few minutes before adding the broth.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, chicken broth works well in this recipe for added flavor.
2. Is wild rice gluten-free?
Yes, wild rice is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make it a day ahead and just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Easy Wild Rice Pilaf
A simple and delicious wild rice pilaf packed with veggies, perfect as a side dish or light main course.
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup wild rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the wild rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion in olive oil until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in the diced carrots and celery and cook for about 3 minutes until they are slightly softened.
- Add the rinsed wild rice and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the pot and simmer for about 45 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Fluff the pilaf with a fork, mix in the fresh thyme leaves, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For best results, serve warm and consider adding other vegetables or herbs for customization.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg