Wild Rice and Mushroom Pilaf (Printable)

Nutty wild rice pairs with earthy mushrooms in this hearty pilaf. A satisfying vegetarian dish ready in just one hour.

# What You'll Need:

→ Grains

01 - 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
02 - 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
03 - 1/2 cup water

→ Vegetables

04 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
05 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 8 ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
08 - 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
09 - 1 medium carrot, diced

→ Herbs & Seasonings

10 - 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
11 - 1 bay leaf
12 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Garnish

13 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
14 - 1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds, optional

# How-To:

01 - In a medium saucepan, bring the wild rice, vegetable broth, and water to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 40 to 45 minutes until the rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.
02 - While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes until softened.
03 - Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden brown and their moisture has evaporated.
04 - Stir in the thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, then remove the bay leaf.
05 - Gently fold the cooked wild rice into the mushroom mixture. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
06 - Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley and optional toasted almonds. Serve warm.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Hearty and nutty profile that is perfect as a side or a vegetarian main.
  • Naturally vegetarian and gluten-free to suit various dietary needs.
  • Combines simple, wholesome ingredients like wild rice, cremini mushrooms, and fresh herbs.
02 -
  • Ensure mushrooms are cooked until golden to maximize their savory flavor profile.
  • Rinse the wild rice thoroughly before cooking to ensure a clean, nutty taste.
  • If using almonds, toast them lightly just before serving for the best crunch.
Return