Description
A flavorful Cranberry Apple Wild Rice Pilaf that combines nutty wild rice with sweet dried cranberries, crisp apples, and crunchy pecans, all seasoned with rustic herbs and infused garlic oil. This comforting dish is baked to perfection, making it a perfect side for holiday meals or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Cooking Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon Roasted Garlic Infused Oil
- 2 cups wild rice or brown rice
- 4 cups unsalted chicken broth or stock
- 1 teaspoon Rustic Herb Seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
Mix-ins and Garnish
- ¾ cup sweetened dried cranberries
- 1 small apple, chopped
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the rice pilaf.
- Sauté Rice: In a Dutch oven or an oven-safe casserole dish, heat the butter and roasted garlic infused oil over medium-high heat. Add the wild or brown rice and sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently until the rice is well-coated with the fat and slightly toasted.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour in the unsalted chicken broth or stock, then add the sweetened dried cranberries, rustic herb seasoning, and salt. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients and bring the mixture to a simmer on the stovetop.
- Bake: Once simmering, cover the dish with a tight-fitting lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 45 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Finish the Pilaf: Remove the dish from the oven. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped apple and pecans for a crunchy, fresh contrast. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Wild rice can be substituted with brown rice for a different texture but similar cooking time.
- Use unsalted chicken broth to control sodium levels more effectively.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth and use plant-based butter.
- Make sure to cover the casserole tightly to avoid drying out the rice during baking.
- Chop the apple just before mixing to keep it fresh and crisp.
- Rustic Herb Seasoning can be substituted with a mix of dried thyme, rosemary, and sage.
