Wild Rice Pilaf with Brussels

Ever craved a side dish that’s both hearty and healthy? This Wild Rice Pilaf with Brussels sprouts is your answer! It’s packed with nutty wild rice, savory Brussels sprouts, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Inspired by wholesome harvest flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Wild Rice Pilaf with Brussels Sprouts

• Ready in under an hour.
• Features layers of texture and flavor, from nutty rice to sweet cranberries.
• Budget-friendly and uses readily available ingredients.
• A satisfying side dish.
• The aroma of toasted nuts and caramelized Brussels sprouts fills the kitchen.
• Simple enough for beginner cooks, yet elegant for entertaining.

Ingredients Needed for Wild Rice Pilaf

• 1 cup (200g) wild rice, rinsed thoroughly.
• 2 cups (480ml) vegetable broth.
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil.
• 1 medium onion, chopped (about 150g).
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 6g).
• 1 pound (450g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved. Look for bright green, firm sprouts.
• ½ cup (85g) dried cranberries.
• ¼ cup (30g) chopped pecans. Toast them lightly in a dry pan for enhanced flavor.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley. Fresh is best, but dried parsley can be used in a pinch.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

For the pecans, consider sourcing them from a local farmers market for the freshest taste. Toasting the pecans before adding them to the pilaf really brings out their nutty flavor and adds another layer of complexity to the dish. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes – A comforting and flavorful main course that pairs perfectly with this pilaf.

Essential Equipment List

• Medium Saucepan: For cooking the wild rice.
• Large Skillet: A 12-inch skillet is ideal for sautéing the vegetables and combining the ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best results.
• Knife: A sharp knife for chopping vegetables.
• Cutting Board: Protect your countertops while prepping.

While a large skillet is preferable, a smaller one can work if you cook the Brussels sprouts in batches. Having the right tools makes cooking more enjoyable and efficient!

Recipe Details

• • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Servings: 6

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• Difficulty: Easy

This Wild Rice Pilaf with Brussels Sprouts is easy to scale up or down depending on how many servings you need. It makes a great addition to any meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Wild Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed wild rice and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. Fluff the cooked rice gently with a fork before adding it to the skillet.

Sauté the Onion and Garlic

While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Cook the Brussels Sprouts

Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and slightly browned, about 8-10 minutes. The browning adds a delicious caramelized flavor. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Combine and Finish the Pilaf

Once the wild rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the Brussels sprouts. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.

Add the Final Touches

Stir in the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and fresh parsley. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed. Serve the Wild Rice Pilaf with Brussels Sprouts warm and enjoy!

CHECK OUT: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bake – An oven-baked dish that’s easy to prepare and complement with this pilaf.

Tips for Success

• Don’t skip rinsing the wild rice: Rinsing removes excess starch and helps prevent the rice from becoming gummy.
• Watch the heat: Keep the heat at medium when sautéing the vegetables to prevent burning.
• Taste and adjust: Season generously with salt and pepper, but adjust to your personal preference.
• Toast the nuts: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.

Variations & Substitutions

• Different Nuts: Substitute walnuts or almonds for the pecans.
• Other Dried Fruit: Use dried cherries or raisins instead of cranberries.
• Add Herbs: Incorporate fresh thyme or sage for an earthy flavor.
• Vegan Option: Ensure your vegetable broth is vegan-friendly.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Wild Rice Pilaf

• Serve as a side dish with roasted vegetables.
• Pair with a hearty lentil soup.
• Serve alongside grilled tofu.
• Perfect for holiday gatherings or potlucks.

This pilaf is also delicious served cold as a salad. It’s versatile and can be adapted to suit any meal!

Health Benefits

Wild rice is a great source of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full. Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Cranberries add a boost of vitamin C. Pecans provide healthy fats and vitamin E. This dish is not only delicious but also provides essential nutrients.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Wild Rice Pilaf with Brussels Sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a tablespoon of water or broth to prevent sticking. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the rice and vegetables may change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of wild rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but the cooking time will vary. Brown rice typically takes about 45 minutes to cook. The flavor and texture will also be different.

Can I add other vegetables?

Certainly! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or mushrooms to the skillet along with the Brussels sprouts.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the wild rice and sauté the vegetables separately, then combine them just before serving. This is a great way to save time when preparing for a large gathering.

How do I prevent the Brussels sprouts from becoming mushy?

Don’t overcrowd the skillet, and make sure the heat is high enough to caramelize them. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

Yes, you can use chicken broth for a richer flavor. However, for a vegetarian or vegan option, stick with vegetable broth.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 40g
• Dietary Fiber: 6g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 8g

Please note that the exact nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. These values are estimates.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more delicious side dishes? Try these gems!

• Miso Sesame Glazed Brussels Sprouts – A flavorful twist on classic Brussels sprouts with a savory-sweet glaze.
• Roasted Sweet Potato, Kale and Quinoa Salad – A hearty and nutritious salad perfect for a light meal.
• Butternut Squash with Brown Butter and Hazelnuts – A decadent and flavorful side dish for any occasion.

Conclusion

This Wild Rice Pilaf with Brussels Sprouts is a fast, flavorful, and healthy side dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whip it up tonight – tag us with your masterpiece! Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking!

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