Cranberry Apple Wild Rice Pilaf

This Cranberry Apple Wild Rice Pilaf is a warm, colorful side dish bursting with nutty, sweet, and tart flavors. Chewy wild rice pairs beautifully with tender apples, tangy cranberries, and crunchy nuts. It’s a perfect addition to any festive meal or weeknight dinner, offering a cozy, wholesome balance of texture and taste.

Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
1 cup wild rice, rinsed
2 ½ cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
½ small onion, finely chopped
1 small apple, diced (use Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness)
½ cup dried cranberries
¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Wild Rice:
   In a medium saucepan, combine the wild rice and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35–40 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Drain any excess liquid if needed.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.

3. Add Apple and Spices:
   Stir in the diced apple, thyme, and cinnamon. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until the apples are tender but not mushy.

4. Combine Ingredients:
   Add the cooked wild rice to the skillet, along with cranberries and nuts. Stir to combine everything evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Finish and Serve:
   Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and fluff gently with a fork before serving.

Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 230
Protein: 5g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 210mg

Tips:
• For extra richness, use a mix of wild and brown rice.
• Toast the nuts before adding them for deeper flavor.
• Add ¼ cup orange juice with the cranberries for a hint of citrus.
• This pilaf reheats well—great for meal prep or holiday leftovers.

This Cranberry Apple Wild Rice Pilaf adds a beautiful burst of color and flavor to your table—sweet, savory, and full of cozy autumn charm.