Savory Rice Blend
A savory rice blend with wild and brown rice, herbs, and vegetables, perfect as a comforting side dish or versatile accompaniment for various meals.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked mixed wild and brown rice ⓘ
- 1 small onion, chopped ⓘ
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon tamari or soy sauce ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil leaves ⓘ
- 1 medium stalk celery, chopped ⓘ
- 3 tablespoons soy margarine ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground sage ⓘ
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook and stir wild and brown rice, celery, and onion in margarine until the onion is tender.
- Pour the rice mixture into an ungreased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Heat chicken broth to boiling and pour over the rice mixture.
- Stir in parsley flakes, salt, tamari or soy sauce, sage, and basil.
- Cover and bake for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the rice mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also replace soy margarine with olive oil or vegan butter for a different taste. For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This Savory Rice Blend makes a delightful side dish for roasted meats or grilled vegetables. It pairs beautifully with Mushroom-Currant Jelly Chicken or can be served alongside a fresh salad like Cletah'S Oriental Salad for a complete meal. Garnish with additional parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Savory Rice Blend in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to the rice and heat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. This will help keep the rice moist and flavorful.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Savory Rice Blend contains roughly 158 calories, with 4g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2386mg per serving (104% 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 other types of rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute other types of rice, such as jasmine or basmati, but adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio accordingly. Keep in mind that wild rice and brown rice add unique textures and flavors that complement the dish well.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to the rice mixture for extra heat. Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level, and enjoy a kick with your Savory Rice Blend.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the rice mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly and when ready to bake, add the heated broth and follow the instructions. This makes it a great option for meal prep.
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).