Wild Rice Side Dish Recipes

August 25, 2023 Post a Comment

Table of Contents [Show]

Wild Brown Rice A Fancy Side Dish Simply Home Cooked from simplyhomecooked.com

Description

Wild rice is an excellent grain to incorporate into your meals because it is a good source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. It has a distinct nutty flavor and a chewy texture, making it a perfect ingredient for side dishes. This article will provide you with a range of wild rice side dish recipes that are easy to make and packed with flavor.

Prep Time and Cook Time

The prep time for these wild rice side dishes varies from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the recipe. The cook time ranges from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the cooking method and the type of wild rice used.

Ingredients

The ingredients for these wild rice side dishes are easily accessible and affordable. Some recipes call for vegetables, nuts, and herbs, while others require a combination of spices and seasonings. Here are the common ingredients used in these recipes: - Wild rice - Vegetable broth or water - Olive oil or butter - Onion - Garlic - Vegetables (carrots, celery, mushrooms, etc.) - Herbs (thyme, parsley, etc.) - Spices (paprika, cumin, etc.) - Nuts (almonds, pecans, etc.)

Equipment

Preparing these wild rice side dishes requires basic kitchen equipment. Here are the essential tools you need: - Large pot with lid - Measuring cups and spoons - Cutting board and knife - Mixing bowl - Wooden spoon or spatula - Baking dish (for baked recipes)

Method

The method for preparing these wild rice side dishes is simple and straightforward. Here are the steps you need to follow: 1. Rinse the wild rice under cold running water and drain well. 2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. 3. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant. 4. Add the vegetables, herbs, and spices and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until tender. 5. Add the wild rice and stir to combine with the vegetables. 6. Add the vegetable broth or water and bring to a boil. 7. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 30-45 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. 8. Fluff the wild rice with a fork and serve.

Notes

- You can use a combination of wild rice and brown rice for a more nutritious and flavorful side dish. - To add more protein to your side dish, you can add cooked beans or tofu to the recipe. - You can also add dried fruits, such as cranberries or apricots, for a sweet and tangy flavor. - Leftover wild rice side dishes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition Info

The nutrition information for these wild rice side dishes varies, depending on the recipe and the serving size. On average, a 1-cup serving of cooked wild rice contains about: - Calories: 166 - Protein: 6 grams - Fat: 1 gram - Carbohydrates: 35 grams - Fiber: 3 grams

Recipe Tips

- You can cook the wild rice in a rice cooker for a more hands-off approach. - Toasting the wild rice before cooking enhances its nutty flavor. - If you don't have vegetable broth, you can use chicken broth or beef broth instead. - Make sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences. - For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of cream or coconut milk to the recipe.

Recipes

Wild Rice Pilaf with Vegetables

This recipe is a colorful and flavorful side dish that goes well with any protein. The vegetables add crunch and freshness to the dish, while the wild rice provides a chewy and nutty texture.

Ingredients:

1 cup wild rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, chopped
1 celery stalk, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
1/4 cup chopped parsley
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
Add the carrot, celery, and red bell pepper and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until tender.
Add the wild rice, paprika, and thyme and stir to combine with the vegetables.
Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Fluff the wild rice with a fork and serve.

Notes:

You can substitute the vegetables with your favorite ones. You can also add some toasted almonds or pecans for extra crunch.

Baked Wild Rice Casserole

This recipe is a comforting and hearty side dish that is perfect for family dinners. The baked wild rice casserole is creamy and flavorful, and it pairs well with roasted chicken or grilled fish.

Ingredients:

1 cup wild rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1/4 cup chopped almonds
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
Add the mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until tender.
Add the wild rice and stir to combine with the vegetables.
Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in the chopped parsley, chopped almonds, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.