A hearty, nutty pilaf featuring wild rice and earthy sautéed mushrooms, perfect as a side or vegetarian main.
# What You'll Need:
→ Grains
01 - 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
02 - 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
03 - 1/2 cup water
→ Vegetables
04 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
05 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 8 oz cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
08 - 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
09 - 1 medium carrot, diced
→ Herbs & Seasonings
10 - 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or 1/2 teaspoon dried
11 - 1 bay leaf
12 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
→ Garnish
13 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
14 - 1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds, optional
# Cooking Steps:
01 - Combine wild rice, vegetable broth, and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes until rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed. Drain any excess liquid.
02 - While rice simmers, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened.
03 - Add garlic and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are golden and moisture has evaporated.
04 - Stir in thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to bloom flavors, then remove and discard bay leaf.
05 - Gently fold cooked wild rice into mushroom mixture. Adjust seasoning to taste. Transfer to serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley and toasted almonds if desired. Serve warm.
