Ina Garten Wild Rice Recipe
Are you looking for a side dish that feels fancy but stays simple? This Ina Garten Wild Rice Recipe is the perfect answer. It is warm, nutty, and full of great texture.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups Wild rice blend usually a mix of wild and brown rice
- 3 cups Chicken stock low sodium is best
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon Black pepper
- ½ cup Scallions white and green parts, chopped
- ½ cup Toasted pecans or almonds optional for crunch
- ¼ cup Fresh parsley finely chopped
Instructions
Rinse the Rice
- Place your rice blend into a fine-mesh strainer. Run cold water over the rice for about a minute. This removes extra starch and ensures the grains stay separate and fluffy after cooking.
Boil the Stock
- Pour the chicken stock into your large saucepan. Add the butter, salt, and black pepper to the liquid. Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
Add the Rice
- Carefully stir the rinsed rice into the boiling stock. Let the liquid return to a boil for just a few seconds. This ensures the temperature stays high enough for even cooking.
Simmer the Mixture
- Turn the heat down to low. Place the lid tightly on the saucepan. Let the rice simmer for 45 to 50 minutes. Do not lift the lid, as the steam is very important.
Check for Tenderness
- After 45 minutes, check if the rice is tender. Most grains should be burst open slightly. If there is still liquid at the bottom, cover and cook for 5 more minutes.
Steam and Rest
- Remove the pot from the heat. Keep the lid on and let the rice rest for 10 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining moisture and prevents it from being mushy.
Add Fresh Flavors
- Take off the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Gently stir in the chopped scallions and fresh parsley. If you are using nuts, add them now for a nice crunch.
Season and Serve
- Taste the rice one last time. Add a pinch more salt or pepper if needed. Transfer the rice to a warm serving bowl and enjoy it while it is hot and fragrant.
Notes
- Use Good Stock: Since the rice absorbs the liquid, the quality of your stock matters. Use a rich chicken or vegetable broth.
- Add Fruit: For a sweet twist, stir in ½ cup of dried cranberries or golden raisins at the end.
- Vegetarian Option: Simply swap the chicken stock for a flavorful vegetable broth.
- Don't Peek: Resist the urge to open the lid while the rice is simmering. You need that trapped steam!
- Add Citrus: A squeeze of fresh orange juice or a bit of zest adds a bright, fresh finish.
- Mix Your Grains: If you can't find a blend, you can mix wild rice with long-grain brown rice yourself.