Apple-Cranberry Wild Rice
A wholesome blend of wild rice, dried cranberries, and dried apples, this dish offers a balance of nutty, tart, and sweet flavors. Perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings, it pairs well with poultry or vegetarian mains, providing a hearty and flavorful side with a touch of seasonal fruitiness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil.
- Stir in the wild rice; reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour or until rice is tender. Drain excess water.
- Stir in dried savory; set aside.
- In a nonstick skillet, sauté chopped leek in olive oil for 1 minute.
- Stir in dried cranberries, chopped dried apples or apricots, and 3 tablespoons chicken broth; cover and simmer for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cooked rice, onion salt, lemon pepper, and remaining chicken broth.
- Cook and stir for 1 to 2 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the dried savory with thyme or rosemary. If wild rice is unavailable, brown rice can be a suitable alternative, though cooking times may vary. To enhance sweetness, try using maple syrup in place of chicken broth. Always rinse wild rice before cooking to remove any debris.
Serving Suggestions
This Apple-Cranberry Wild Rice makes a delightful side dish for roasted meats, especially turkey or chicken. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Ala Diana for a festive meal. Serve it warm, garnished with fresh herbs, or at room temperature as a hearty salad base. A sprinkle of nuts can add a nice crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the rice, cover, and warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. It can also be microwaved with a lid on for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple-Cranberry Wild Rice contains roughly 435 calories, with 0g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1173mg per serving (51% 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 use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries can be used, but they are much more tart. If you opt for them, consider adding a bit of sugar or honey to balance the flavors. Cooking times may vary slightly, so monitor them closely while simmering.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes! You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting chicken broth with vegetable broth. Additionally, feel free to add more vegetables, such as spinach or carrots, for extra nutrition and flavor.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
To prepare this dish ahead, you can cook the wild rice and sauté the leeks in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and combine them with the other ingredients just before serving. This way, you can enjoy a fresh meal without the last-minute rush.
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).