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Cranberry Apple Wild Rice Pilaf Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 36 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A flavorful and hearty Cranberry Apple Wild Rice Pilaf combining nutty wild rice with sweet apples, tart dried cranberries, and crunchy nuts. Perfect as a seasonal side dish for fall and holiday meals, this pilaf brings a delightful balance of textures and flavors with an easy stovetop cooking method.

Ingredients

Rice and Broth

  • 1 cup wild rice blend
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

Vegetables and Fruits

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 apple (such as Honeycrisp or Gala), diced
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries

Nuts and Herbs

  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Oils and Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the Wild Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the 2 cups of low-sodium broth to a boil. Stir in the 1 cup of wild rice blend, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and simmer for 40 to 45 minutes until the rice is tender and the broth has been absorbed.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: While the rice is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent.
  3. Add Garlic and Fruit: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma. Then add the diced apple and dried cranberries to the skillet, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until the apples soften slightly but still hold their shape.
  4. Combine Ingredients: When the wild rice is ready, fluff it with a fork and add it into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables and fruits. Stir in the 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to taste.
  5. Add Nuts and Warm Through: If using, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Heat the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes until everything is warmed through.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the pilaf for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve warm as a delightful side dish alongside roasted poultry or pork.

Notes

  • This pilaf pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, turkey, or pork dishes.
  • Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make the recipe vegetarian.
  • You can prepare this pilaf ahead of time and gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
  • For added texture, toasted nuts can be used instead of raw.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/cranberry-apple-wild-rice-pilaf-recipe/