Uncle Ben’s wild rice has always been a staple in my kitchen, bringing its rich, nutty flavor to countless meals. There’s something comforting about that familiar taste that makes every dish feel special. Whether it’s paired with hearty vegetables or used as a base for a savory main, wild rice never disappoints.
But what if you could make that same delicious wild rice at home, tailored to your preferences? I’ve spent time perfecting a copycat recipe that captures all the essence of Uncle Ben’s favorite. It’s simple, flavorful, and versatile enough to complement any meal you’re planning. Plus, making it yourself means you can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Join me as we dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will elevate your cooking and bring that beloved wild rice flavor right to your table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup wild rice
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Directions
Follow these steps to master Uncle Ben’s Wild Rice right in your kitchen.
Prep
- Measure Ingredients
- 1 cup wild rice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, diced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Prepare Vegetables
- Finely chop the onion.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Dice the carrot.
- Slice the celery and mushrooms.
- Rinse Wild Rice
- Place wild rice in a fine-mesh sieve.
- Rinse under cold running water until water runs clear.
Cook
- Sauté Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic.
- Cook for 3 minutes until onions are translucent.
- Add diced carrot and sliced celery.
- Sauté for another 5 minutes until vegetables soften.
- If using, add sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Toast Wild Rice
- Stir in the rinsed wild rice into the saucepan.
- Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently, to toast the rice slightly.
- Add Broth and Simmer
- Pour in 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth.
- Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes.
- Check occasionally to ensure the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Finish and Serve
- Remove saucepan from heat.
- Let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the wild rice with a fork.
- Stir in chopped fresh parsley.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm as a hearty side dish or as a base for your favorite protein.
| Step | Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Sauté Vegetables | 8 minutes | Cooking onions, garlic, carrot, celery, and mushrooms |
| Toast Wild Rice | 2 minutes | Enhancing the rice flavor |
| Simmer | 45 minutes | Cooking rice in broth until tender |
| Rest | 5 minutes | Allowing flavors to meld |
Tools And Equipment
To create the perfect Uncle Ben’s Wild Rice copycat, having the right tools in your kitchen makes all the difference. Here’s what I use to ensure each step is seamless and the flavors come out just right:
Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Accurate measurements are crucial for balanced flavors. I rely on a set of stainless steel measuring cups and spoons for precision.
Fine-Mesh Strainer
- Rinsing the wild rice thoroughly removes any impurities. A fine-mesh strainer does the job efficiently without losing any grains.
Large Saucepan with Lid
- A heavy-bottomed saucepan ensures even heat distribution while simmering the rice. A tight-fitting lid helps retain moisture for perfectly tender grains.
Sauté Pan or Skillet
- For sautéing vegetables, a spacious skillet allows ingredients to cook evenly without overcrowding.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- I prefer wooden utensils to stir and sauté. They’re gentle on cookware and perfect for blending flavors.
Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board
- A sharp chef’s knife makes chopping onions, garlic, carrots, and celery a breeze. A sturdy cutting board provides a safe and stable surface.
Wooden Cutting Board
- Durable and easy to clean, it’s ideal for prepping vegetables and herbs.
Stove
- A reliable stove with consistent heat control is essential for executing each cooking step accurately.
Ladle
- Perfect for stirring and serving, a sturdy ladle helps manage the simmering process without spills.
- To present the dish beautifully, a high-quality serving spoon ensures every serving is just right.
Having these tools on hand not only makes the cooking process more efficient but also enhances the overall experience of preparing this delicious wild rice dish. Equip your kitchen with these essentials, and you’ll be set to create a memorable meal every time.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing this wild rice dish ahead of time is a game-changer for busy days. Here’s how I ensure it stays delicious and fresh:
- Cook the Wild Rice
Follow the recipe steps to prepare the wild rice. Make sure it’s fully cooked and all the flavors are well blended.
- Cool Completely
Allow the wild rice to cool to room temperature. Spreading it out on a baking sheet helps speed up the cooling process.
- Store Properly
Transfer the cooled wild rice to airtight containers. I like to portion it into individual servings for convenience.
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 4 days |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months |
- Reheat with Care
- From Refrigerator:
Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water to restore moisture and stir occasionally until heated through.
- From Freezer:
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then reheat as above. Alternatively, you can reheat directly from frozen by adding extra liquid and covering the saucepan to steam.
- Enhance Before Serving
After reheating, refresh the dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil to bring back its vibrant flavors.
By following these make-ahead steps, you can enjoy my Uncle Ben’s Wild Rice Copycat Recipe anytime without sacrificing taste or texture.
Serving Suggestions
Elevating your Uncle Ben’s Wild Rice Copycat Recipe is a breeze with these delicious serving ideas. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these suggestions will enhance your wild rice dish and delight your guests.
Classic Side Dish
Pair the wild rice with your favorite proteins for a well-rounded meal. It complements grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or pan-seared salmon beautifully. The earthy flavors of the rice balance the savory notes of these main dishes.
Hearty Grain Bowls
Create a nourishing grain bowl by layering wild rice with an assortment of veggies and proteins. Start with a base of wild rice, add roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts, and top with grilled shrimp or tofu. Drizzle with a tangy vinaigrette for added flavor.
Stuffed Peppers
Use the wild rice as a filling for colorful bell peppers. Mix the rice with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and spices. Bake until the peppers are tender and the flavors meld together. This makes for a stunning and nutritious main course.
Wild Rice Salad
Transform the wild rice into a refreshing salad by adding ingredients like cranberries, toasted nuts, and fresh herbs. Toss with a lemony dressing to brighten the flavors. This salad is perfect for potlucks or as a light lunch option.
Mushroom and Herb Medley
Enhance the wild rice with sautéed mushrooms and fresh herbs. Cook the mushrooms until they’re golden and mix them into the rice along with chopped parsley or thyme. The earthy mushrooms and vibrant herbs add depth to the dish.
Mediterranean Twist
Incorporate Mediterranean flavors by adding sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese to the wild rice. Sprinkle with oregano and a splash of olive oil for a zesty and savory side that pairs well with lamb or beef kebabs.
Breakfast Option
Surprisingly versatile, wild rice can even make a hearty breakfast. Serve it with a poached egg and a drizzle of hollandaise sauce for a wild rice Benedict. Alternatively, mix it with sautéed spinach and a sprinkle of cheese for a savory morning meal.
Comforting Casserole
Combine the wild rice with creamy ingredients like mushrooms, cheese, and a touch of cream for a comforting casserole. Top with breadcrumbs and bake until golden and bubbly. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Tex-Mex Flair
Give your wild rice a Tex-Mex makeover by adding black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese. Serve it alongside tacos or fajitas for a vibrant and flavorful meal.
Elegant Presentation
For a more refined presentation, mold the wild rice into neat shapes using a ring mold. Serve as a centerpiece alongside delicate proteins like seared scallops or filet mignon. Garnish with a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of microgreens for added elegance.
By exploring these serving suggestions, you can enjoy Uncle Ben’s Wild Rice Copycat Recipe in a variety of delicious and creative ways. Mix and match these ideas to suit your taste and occasion, making every meal a delightful experience.
Conclusion
Trying out this copycat Uncle Ben’s Wild Rice recipe has been a delightful experience for me. I love how easy it is to prepare and the flavors come together so perfectly. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or prepping meals ahead, it’s a versatile addition to any kitchen. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do. Happy cooking!
