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–+ servings
Thanksgiving Wild Rice Pilaf Recipe

Festive Thanksgiving Wild Rice Pilaf Bursting with Flavor

This Thanksgiving Wild Rice Pilaf Recipe combines nutty wild rice, sweet cranberries, and vibrant vegetables for a flavorful holiday side dish.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dishes
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pilaf
  • 1 cup Wild Rice Blend Hearty base that adds nutty flavor and chewy texture.
  • 1 small Leek Provides subtle onion flavor; substitute green onions if needed.
  • 1 cup Bell Pepper Brings sweetness; any variety can be used.
  • 1 medium Carrot Grated to ensure quick cooking.
  • 1 cup Vegan White Wine Adds depth; substitute with vegetable broth for non-alcoholic.
  • 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries Provides sweetness; can be swapped with raisins.
  • 2 cups Low Sodium Vegetable Stock or Water Cooking liquid that infuses flavor.
  • 2 pieces Bay Leaves Adds aromatic flavor; remove after cooking.
  • 4 sprigs Fresh Herb Sprigs (Rosemary, Sage, Thyme, Oregano) Enhances flavor and fragrance.
  • 1 pinch Red Pepper Flakes Adjust heat level according to preference.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil or Water For sautéing; olive oil adds richness.
Optional Enhancements
  • 1/2 cup Crunchy Nuts (Pecans, Walnuts) For added texture and flavor.
  • Seasonal Vegetables Diced seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or Brussels sprouts can be added.

Equipment

  • deep skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat skillet and sauté chopped leeks with salt for about 5 minutes until translucent.
    Thanksgiving Wild Rice Pilaf Recipe
  2. Add grated carrot and herbs (thyme, oregano, sage, rosemary, bay leaves, red pepper flakes) and toast for another 2-3 minutes.
    Thanksgiving Wild Rice Pilaf Recipe
  3. Incorporate wild rice blend and diced bell pepper; pour in vegan white wine and simmer for 5 minutes.
    Thanksgiving Wild Rice Pilaf Recipe
  4. Add vegetable stock or water, then bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 50 minutes.
    Thanksgiving Wild Rice Pilaf Recipe
  5. Discard bay leaves, fluff rice with a fork, and garnish with cranberries and herbs before serving.
    Thanksgiving Wild Rice Pilaf Recipe

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 6gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 0.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 250mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 7gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat with a splash of vegetable stock or water.

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