Wild Rice & Apple Cider Pilaf

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INGREDIENTS

1 cup apple cider
1 cup wild rice blend
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
1 medium apple, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup kale leaves, chopped
¼ cup chopped parsley
½ cup chopped pecans
1 lemon
Salt to taste

DIRECTIONS

  1. In a large pot, combine apple cider and wild rice blend with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender, adding additional water if needed. Drain rice over a colander or strainer, removing any excess liquid, and set aside.

  1. Heat olive oil in the same pot over medium heat. Add the onion and apple, and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and kale, and cook 2 to 3 minutes more or until the kale is soft.

  2. Add the rice back to the pot with the onion mixture. Add chopped parsley, pecans, a squeeze of lemon juice, and salt to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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quick tips

  • Wild rice blend is typically a mix of brown, black, red and wild rice (which is actually a type of grass seed!)

  • You can substitute apple juice for apple cider in this recipe.

  • No apples? No problem -- use dried fruits like raisins or dried cranberries instead.