Herbed Wild Rice
A warm, nutty wild rice pilaf with earthy mushrooms, celery, and a fragrant blend of fresh herbs. This classic Midwest side dish is perfect for holiday dinners or a cozy weeknight meal.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 50 minutes total.
- 1
Prepare the rice and pecans
- a.Place the wild rice blend in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. Drain thoroughly. In a small, dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
- 2
Sauté the aromatics
- a.In a medium pot or Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Cook the mushrooms
- a.Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot, increase the heat to medium-high, and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 4
Toast the rice and add liquid
- a.Add the rinsed and drained wild rice blend to the pot. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to toast the grains. Pour in the vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
- 5
Simmer the rice
- a.Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the pot tightly, and let it simmer for 45-50 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time, as the trapped steam is essential for cooking the rice.
- 6
Rest and finish
- a.Remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, still covered, for 10 minutes. Uncover, fluff the rice gently with a fork, and fold in the chopped fresh parsley, thyme, sage, and toasted pecans. Serve warm.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Rinsing the rice is crucial to remove excess starch, preventing a gummy texture.
- 2For a deeper, richer flavor, use mushroom broth instead of vegetable broth.
- 3Toasting the pecans enhances their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
- 4Ensure your pot lid is tight-fitting. If it's loose, place a piece of foil between the pot and the lid to create a better seal.
- 5The 10-minute rest period is non-negotiable! It allows the grains to absorb the final bits of steam, resulting in a perfectly fluffy texture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Substitute the unsalted butter with 2 tablespoons of olive oil or your favorite plant-based butter.
Protein PackedProtein-Packed
Stir in 1 cup of cooked, shredded chicken, crumbled Italian sausage, or canned chickpeas (rinsed and drained) along with the herbs at the end.
Add VegetablesAdd Vegetables
Sauté 1 chopped carrot and/or 1/2 cup of diced bell pepper along with the onion and celery for extra color and nutrients.
Fruity TwistFruity Twist
For a festive touch, add 1/3 cup of dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots when you add the herbs and pecans.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Fiber
Wild rice and vegetables provide significant dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes satiety, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Rich in Antioxidants
Mushrooms, pecans, and herbs are excellent sources of antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Good Source of Plant-Based Protein
Wild rice contains more protein than most other whole grains, making this dish a satisfying and nutritious option for vegetarians and vegans.
Supports Heart Health
The monounsaturated fats in pecans can help lower bad cholesterol levels, while the fiber in the dish contributes to overall cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Herbed Wild Rice contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the specific wild rice blend and amount of butter used.