Yield: 6-8 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 50-60 minutes
Ingredients
Rice:
- 1 1/2 cups wild rice blend (or just wild rice)
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Aromatics and Vegetables:
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (cremini or white button)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Flavor Enhancers and Garnishes:
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the Wild Rice:
- Rinse the wild rice thoroughly.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the wild rice, broth, bay leaf, and salt to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed (about 45-50 minutes).
- Discard the bay leaf and fluff the rice with a fork.
2. Prep the Ingredients:
- While the rice cooks, dice the bacon, chop the onion and celery, and slice the mushrooms.
3. Cook Bacon and Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crisp. Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Add the butter to the bacon drippings in the skillet. Sauté the onion and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the mushrooms and thyme. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, another 5 minutes or so.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Combine Stuffing:
- Transfer the cooked wild rice to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Add the cranberries, pecans (or walnuts), cooked bacon, and parsley.
- Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake (optional):
- For a slightly crispier top, transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve:
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley or other fresh herbs, if desired.
- Serve warm as a festive side dish with turkey, chicken, or other main courses.
Tips:
- Customization: Use any type of dried fruit (cherries, apricots) or nuts you prefer.
- Vegetarian: Substitute vegan bacon, vegetable oil, or olive oil for a meatless version.
- Added Flavor: A splash of white wine or sherry complements the savory wild rice. Add while sauteing the vegetables.
- Make-ahead: Prepare the stuffing ahead of time, then store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake before serving.
Enjoy your delicious wild rice stuffing!
