Almost Wild Rice
A savory rice dish infused with mushrooms and onion, browned vermicelli adding texture and flavor, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the oleo in a pan; break the vermicelli into the oleo and brown them.
- Add rice, mushrooms, chopped onion, consomme, salt, and pepper. Add 1 cup of water.
- Cover and cook, stirring as necessary, for 20 minutes or until almost dry.
- Add the remaining cup of water and simmer until dry, about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting butter for oleo. If you prefer a heartier dish, you can add diced carrots or celery along with the onions. To enhance the umami, try incorporating a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. For a quicker cooking process, use instant rice instead of regular rice, but reduce the water amount accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Almost Wild Rice as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish for a well-rounded meal. It pairs beautifully with Sunday Oven Fried Potatoes - Justin'S Favorite, making it a perfect complement to a hearty dinner. For a vegetarian option, enjoy it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Almost Wild Rice contains roughly 459 calories, with 12g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), protein (24% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2721mg per serving (118% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Almost Wild Rice in advance. Cook it according to the instructions, then cool and store it in the refrigerator. It can be reheated when you're ready to serve, making it a convenient option for meal prep.
What can I use instead of consomme?
If you don't have consomme, you can use beef or vegetable broth as a substitute. This will provide a similar depth of flavor to the dish. Alternatively, you can create a homemade broth using water, herbs, and spices.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this recipe can be easily adapted for vegan diets by using plant-based butter instead of oleo and ensuring that the consomme is vegan-friendly. This makes it a versatile option for various dietary preferences.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).