Wild Rice

Zizania aquatica (Northern wild rice), Zizania palustris (Marsh wild rice) Grain

Wild Rice Grain

At a Glance

  • Category Grain

The Forktionary Angle

"Not truly a rice, this ancient aquatic grass offers a distinctive chewy texture and a deep, earthy, nutty flavor that elevates any dish."

Definition

A grain from aquatic grasses, native to North America, known for its long, dark kernels, chewy texture, and nutty, earthy flavor.

Cooking Ratio (Rice:Water) 1:3-4
Cooking Time 45-60 minutes
Protein Content (cooked, per cup) Approx. 6.5g

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Wild Rice are:

Nutty earthy slightly smoky robust

Chef’s Secret

For extra depth, toast dry wild rice in a dry skillet for a few minutes before cooking until fragrant, enhancing its nutty notes.

Best Substitutes

Brown rice

different texture/flavor
Ratio 1:1

farro

chewy
Ratio 1:1

black forbidden rice

color/texture
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for 100% wild rice, not a blend. Check for whole, unbroken grains. Store in an airtight container.

Recipes Using Wild Rice

Preparation Main Ingredient Main Dish Time To Make

Apple Pecan Crusted Salmon Over Wild Rice

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of fall with this stunning Apple Pecan Crusted Salmon recipe! Perfectly pan-seared salmon fillets, coated in a crunchy pecan crust and sweet apple glaze, are served atop a vibrant wild rice pilaf bursting with fresh cranberries and apples. This easy, 60-minute recipe elevates weeknight dinners with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Perfect for a cozy autumn meal!

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Pasta Rice And Grains Healthy 2 Occasion Low Cholesterol

Asian Style Wild Rice And Chicken Or Turkey Salad

This vibrant Asian-inspired wild rice salad is packed with protein and fresh veggies! Perfect for a light lunch, potluck, or weeknight dinner. Marinate in a zesty ginger-soy dressing for maximum flavor. Serves 3-4 (easily doubled). Plan ahead – chilling enhances the taste!

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Healthy Lunch Brown Rice Holiday Event

Baked Pumpkins With Wild Rice Stuffing

Impress your guests this Thanksgiving with this stunning vegetarian/vegan recipe! Perfectly roasted pumpkins are filled with a savory wild rice stuffing bursting with fresh vegetables. This show-stopping dish is both beautiful and delicious, making it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner.

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Lactose Oamc Freezer Make Ahead Lactose 15 Minutes Or Less

8 Grain Mix

Elevate your meals with this flavorful 8-grain mix, inspired by San Francisco's Medicine Restaurant! Use it as a delicious and nutritious replacement for rice, a vibrant addition to jasmine or basmati rice, or even as a sushi base. This bulk-friendly recipe is packed with wholesome grains and adds a unique texture and taste to any dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners and special occasions!

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Equipment Course Equipment Dietary

Asparagus Wild Rice Soup

Cozy up on a chilly evening with this decadent and flavorful Asparagus Wild Rice Soup! Creamy, comforting, and bursting with fresh asparagus flavor, this recipe is the ultimate winter warmer. Easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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4 Hours Or Less Occasion Weeknight Diabetic

A Wild Ride On The Half Shell

Experience a culinary adventure with this vibrant and flavorful wild rice salad! A perfect appetizer, side dish, or vegetarian main course, this recipe boasts a delightful mix of nutty wild and brown rice, a zesty vinaigrette, plump sweet fruit, crunchy pecans, and creamy avocado. The recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks. Prepare to be amazed by the incredible combination of textures and tastes!

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Main Ingredient Main Ingredient Side Dishes Course

Apple Cider Wild Rice Pilaf Treasure

This Apple Cider Wild Rice Pilaf is a treasure trove of flavor! A quick and easy recipe, ready in under 75 minutes, it combines the nutty heartiness of wild rice with the sweet tang of apple cider and the delightful crunch of pecans and cranberries. Impress your family and friends with this festive and delicious side dish, perfect for Thanksgiving, fall gatherings, or any weeknight meal.

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4 Hours Or Less Time To Make Preparation 4 Hours Or Less

Apple Walnut Rice Stuffing Vegan

This delightful vegan twist on a classic Better Homes & Gardens recipe (originally featured in a 1987 Tyson chicken ad!) transforms a cornish hen stuffing into a mouthwatering vegetarian side dish perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering. Inspired by the original, but adapted for modern palates, this recipe uses a vibrant mix of brown, black, and yellow rice for a unique texture and flavor profile. The sweet apples and crunchy walnuts create a delightful contrast, making it a crowd-pleasing dish for both vegans and non-vegans (feel free to add butter for extra richness!).

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Pork Pork Course Easy

Apple Braised Pork Chops

Inspired by a Detroit restaurant, these juicy pork chops are braised in a luscious sweet and savory apple and dried cherry sauce. This quick and impressive recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Tender pork, caramelized onions, and bursts of fruity sweetness create a symphony of flavors in under 40 minutes!

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Chicken Course Poultry Time To Make

Apple Dijon Chicken Skillet

A delightful twist on classic chicken! This Apple Dijon Chicken Skillet recipe combines juicy chicken, sweet apples, earthy mushrooms, and a tangy Dijon mustard sauce for a flavor explosion. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is elevated with the addition of fluffy rice cooked directly in the skillet, creating a comforting and satisfying one-pan wonder. Get ready for a burst of deliciousness in just 20 minutes!

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Pasta Vegetarian Course Beginner Cook

Alexander's Orzo And Wild Rice Salad

A vibrant and flavorful orzo and wild rice salad, perfect as a light lunch or a refreshing side dish. This recipe boasts a zesty lemon-herb dressing that complements the nutty wild rice and tender orzo. Easy to make and bursting with fresh flavors, it's guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

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Preparation Low In Something Low Sodium Time To Make

Bay Flavored Brown Wild Rice

Elevate your dinner with this aromatic Bay-Flavored Brown & Wild Rice Pilaf! Perfectly complementing roast Cornish hens and green beans, this recipe (inspired by Penzeys Spices) delivers a comforting and flavorful side dish. The blend of nutty brown rice and earthy wild rice, infused with fragrant bay leaves and sautéed shallots, creates a culinary masterpiece in just 50 minutes.

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Side Dishes Rice Fall Low Protein

Barley Wild Rice And Cranberry Pilaf

This festive Barley, Wild Rice, and Cranberry Pilaf is the perfect Thanksgiving side dish! Bursting with autumnal flavors, this recipe combines chewy barley and wild rice with tart cranberries and a zesty citrus dressing. Serve it warm or at room temperature – it's delicious either way! Impress your guests with this easy-to-make, yet elegant side that complements any Thanksgiving feast.

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Weeknight Dietary Course Stove Top

Best Wild Rice Soup

This easy wild rice soup recipe is a family favorite, even for picky eaters! Perfect for using up leftover Thanksgiving turkey, this comforting and creamy soup is guaranteed to be a hit. Double the recipe for extra delicious leftovers. Get ready to savor the rich flavors of wild rice, savory turkey, and creamy goodness!

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Equipment Low In Something Low Fat Meat

Apricot Glazed Pork With Baked Onions

Indulge in this elegant, reduced-fat Apricot Glazed Pork Tenderloin with Baked Onions! This recipe is perfect for impressing company, boasting a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. The tender pork is beautifully complemented by caramelized onions and a luscious apricot glaze. Minimal prep time (just 2 hours marinating!), resulting in a show-stopping dish that's surprisingly easy to make.

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Pasta Course Time To Make Pasta Rice And Grains

Bab's Orzo Rice Salad With Dijon Vinaigrette

Craving that restaurant-quality salad? This vibrant Bab S Orzo & Rice Salad with Zesty Dijon Vinaigrette perfectly recreates a beloved dish! A delightful blend of orzo, fluffy rice, crisp red bell pepper, and sweet red onion, tossed in a creamy Dijon vinaigrette and topped with crunchy toasted pine nuts and fresh basil. This light yet satisfying salad is the perfect complement to grilled meats or fish, or enjoy it as a standalone summer meal. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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