Wild Rice Stuffing with Nuts and Dried Fruits
Recipe Date:
October 1, 2024
Serving Size:
10
Cook Time:
01:20:00
Difficulty:
Easy
Measurements:
Imperial (US)
The nutty flavor of wild rice pairs beautifully with the sweetness of dried fruits and the crunch of toasted nuts. Scented with fresh herbs and a hint of citrus, this stuffing offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors. It's a nutritious and flavorful side dish that brings a wholesome twist to any table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (Uncooked) Wild Rice Blend
- 4 cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth
- 1 1/2 tbsps Marianello Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dried cherries
- 1 cup chopped toasted nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds)
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tsps fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 fresh orange juice for added flavor
- Fresh Rosemary Garnish
Directions
Wild Rice Stuffing with Nuts and Dried Fruits
A hearty stuffing combining wild rice, toasted nuts, and dried fruits. This wholesome ingredient mix adds a nutritious twist to a traditional favorite.
1. Cook the Wild Rice
Rinse the wild rice blend under cold water to remove any impurities.
In a medium saucepan, combine the wild rice and broth.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and allow it to rest for 10 minutes.
Fluff the rice with a fork, releasing its nutty aroma.
In a medium saucepan, combine the wild rice and broth.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and allow it to rest for 10 minutes.
Fluff the rice with a fork, releasing its nutty aroma.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, warm the Marianello Extra Virgin Olive Oil over medium heat, embracing its rich fragrance.
Add the finely chopped onion and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they become tender and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until its delightful aroma fills your kitchen.
Add the finely chopped onion and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they become tender and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until its delightful aroma fills your kitchen.
3. Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently fold together the cooked wild rice, sautéed vegetables, dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, and toasted nuts.
Sprinkle in the fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary, infusing the stuffing with vibrant flavors.
Drizzle with the fresh orange juice, if desired, for a hint of citrus brightness.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Mix until all ingredients are beautifully combined, appreciating the colorful medley.
Sprinkle in the fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary, infusing the stuffing with vibrant flavors.
Drizzle with the fresh orange juice, if desired, for a hint of citrus brightness.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Mix until all ingredients are beautifully combined, appreciating the colorful medley.
4. Bake the Stuffing
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a baking dish and transfer the stuffing mixture into it, spreading evenly.
Cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
Bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the top to become lightly golden.
Lightly grease a baking dish and transfer the stuffing mixture into it, spreading evenly.
Cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
Bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the top to become lightly golden.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.
Serve warm, and delight in the hearty flavors that bring warmth to your table.
Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.
Serve warm, and delight in the hearty flavors that bring warmth to your table.
Cook Time
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield
Serves: 8-10 people as a side dish
Notes
Nuts and Fruits Variations: Feel free to substitute with other dried fruits like raisins, currants, or chopped dates. Mix and match your favorite nuts for different flavors and textures.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check labels on packaged ingredients to be sure.
Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Use vegetable broth to keep the recipe vegetarian or vegan-friendly.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the stuffing ahead of time and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Wine Pairing: Tre Anelli Albarino or a balanced Tempranillo can beautifully complement the dish’s rich and varied flavors. Whether you prefer the aromatic complexity of a playfull white or a bigger red, selecting a wine that balances dryness, acidity, and body will enhance your dining experience. Elevate your meal with these thoughtful pairings and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors!
