Turkey With Wild Rice(For Leftover Turkey)
A comforting dish featuring tender turkey and wild rice in a creamy mushroom and onion sauce. Perfect for utilizing leftover turkey, this hearty recipe combines rich flavors and satisfying textures, making it ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings that crave a savory, filling meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash wild rice thoroughly.
- Drop the wild rice into boiling water, add 1 teaspoon salt, and cook for 25 to 40 minutes.
- Drain and rinse the rice.
- Heat half of the butter with chopped onions and sliced mushrooms until soft.
- Prepare a white sauce using the remaining butter, flour, turkey stock, and cream.
- Combine cooked rice, turkey, and the sauce, then heat through before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the wild rice while cooking. If you don't have turkey stock, chicken broth works as a great substitute. For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of cream. You can also add vegetables such as peas or spinach for added nutrition and texture, making this a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with Chocolate-Malt Cheesecake for dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the turkey with wild rice warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting dinner, consider serving with crusty bread on the side. It also makes a great filling for a savory casserole, perfect alongside Lemon Pies for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of turkey stock or cream to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, covered, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey With Wild Rice(For Leftover Turkey) contains roughly 688 calories, with 22g protein, 103g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (223% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and protein (43% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2197mg per serving (96% 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 instead of wild rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice or jasmine rice as alternatives. However, cooking times may vary, so adjust according to package instructions. Wild rice has a unique texture and flavor, but these substitutes can still create a delicious dish.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the turkey with cubed tofu or additional vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Replace turkey stock with vegetable broth and omit the cream or use a plant-based cream alternative for a dairy-free option.
What can I do with leftover wild rice?
Leftover wild rice can be added to soups, salads, or stir-fries for added texture and nutrition. You can also mix it with sautéed vegetables and a protein of your choice for a quick and healthy meal. It freezes well too, so consider storing it for future meals.
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).