Wild Rice With Pecans
Wild Rice with Pecans is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the nutty texture of wild rice with the crunch of toasted pecans and the freshness of herbs. Perfect as a side for any meal or as a light main dish, it brings a delightful taste of nature to your table.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over moderate heat.
- Add the sliced green onions and sauté for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the wild rice, coating it with butter.
- Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a boil, stirring.
- Lower the heat, cover tightly, and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- Add the boiling water and stir in the uncooked long grain white rice.
- Cover and steam for 20 minutes longer or until both rices are tender.
- Stir in the toasted pecans and shredded fresh basil or chopped parsley.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, you can omit the pecans or substitute them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. If wild rice is unavailable, a blend of brown rice and quinoa can work, but adjust the cooking time as needed. Be sure to rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch, ensuring fluffier grains in the final dish.
Serving Suggestions
This wild rice with pecans is a hearty side that pairs beautifully with roasted meats like Baked Chicken Wings or a light chicken salad. Consider serving it alongside steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For a gourmet touch, garnish with additional fresh herbs before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and microwave until heated through, or warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. This dish can also be served cold as a salad topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wild Rice With Pecans contains roughly 1174 calories, with 34g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (145% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 508mg per serving (22% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be prepared ahead of time. Simply cook it and let it cool before storing it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste.
What can I use instead of chicken stock?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth or a homemade vegetable stock for a similar depth of flavor. You can also use water, but consider adding extra herbs or spices to enhance the taste.
Is there a gluten-free alternative to this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if you ensure the chicken broth is labeled gluten-free. You can also replace the wild rice with a gluten-free grain like quinoa or millet, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
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).