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Wild Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms and Cranberries Recipe

4.9 from 94 reviews

This Wild Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms and Cranberries is a hearty and flavorful gluten-free side dish featuring nutty wild rice, savory sautéed mushrooms, and sweet dried cranberries. Perfect for making ahead of time, it offers a festive touch to any meal with minimal effort and is ideal for holiday gatherings or everyday meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 1 cup wild rice blend
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • ¼ cup chopped parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the rice: Rinse the wild rice blend under cold water, then combine with 2 cups of vegetable broth in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer according to package instructions (about 45-50 minutes) until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  2. Sauté the mushrooms: While the rice cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and have released their moisture, about 6-8 minutes.
  3. Combine ingredients: Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the sautéed mushrooms, dried cranberries, and chopped parsley. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
  4. Season and cool: Season the pilaf with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature before storing to preserve freshness.
  5. Store and serve: Store the pilaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently in a covered dish with a splash of vegetable broth to keep it moist, then garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • For best texture, rinse wild rice before cooking to remove any debris.
  • You can substitute mushrooms with your favorite variety such as cremini or shiitake for different flavor profiles.
  • Adding toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts can add a nice crunchy texture.
  • This dish can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for different occasions.
  • To keep the dish moist on reheating, add a splash of broth or water and cover the container.

Keywords: wild rice pilaf, mushroom pilaf, cranberry side dish, gluten free side, make ahead side dish, holiday side, vegetarian pilaf