Vegan Pecan Cranberry Wild Rice Recipe

Looking for a flavorful and festive side dish that’s also vegan? This Vegan Pecan Cranberry Wild Rice recipe is the perfect answer! It’s a delightful blend of nutty wild rice, sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and aromatic herbs, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for holidays, potlucks, or even a simple weeknight meal.

Wild rice, despite its name, is actually a grain that boasts a wonderfully chewy texture and earthy flavor. It’s a nutritional powerhouse packed with fiber, protein, and antioxidants. Combining it with the sweetness of cranberries and the satisfying crunch of pecans elevates it to a truly special dish. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the wild rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
2. While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the cranberries, pecans, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries are plump.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet with the cranberry-pecan mixture. Stir well to combine.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• For a deeper flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet before adding them to the recipe.
• Add other dried fruits like apricots or cherries for a more complex flavor profile.
• Include chopped fresh herbs like parsley or sage for a burst of freshness.
• Use maple syrup or agave nectar for a touch of sweetness.
• This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled to feed a larger crowd.

This vegan wild rice recipe is a fantastic addition to any menu, offering a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional side dishes. Its beautiful colors and rich flavors make it a truly memorable experience. Enjoy your vegan pecan cranberry wild rice!

Ingredients:
Wild rice, vegetable broth, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, chopped onion, garlic, olive oil, dried thyme, salt, black pepper

Tags:
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