If you are looking for how to cook wild rice perfectly, I think you have come to the right place. In this article, I will answer some frequently asked questions when cooking wild rice and instruct you how to cook this type of rice in 3 different ways.
1. Frequently Asked Questions
Should Wild Rice Be Soaked Before Cooking?
Soaking wild rice is an option, you can still cook wild rice without soaking it. However, wild rice has a hard texture and requires more time to cook than regular rice. So if you want to reduce cooking time in half and the rice becomes softer, you should soak the rice overnight or for at least 6 hours.
What is the Ratio of Water to Wild Rice?
The general ratio for cooking wild rice is 3 cups of water for every 1 cup of uncooked wild rice. This ratio provides enough liquid for the wild rice to absorb and cook properly. However, you can adjust the ratio slightly based on your preferred texture
How Much Wild Rice Per Person?
The amount of wild rice per person can vary depending on several factors, such as the serving size, the accompanying dishes, and individual preferences. However, as a general guideline, you can estimate around 1/4 to 1/3 cup (45 to 60 grams) of uncooked wild rice per person. This should yield a sufficient portion when cooked.
2. How To Cook Wild Rice on Stovetop
Ingredients
- 1 cup wild rice
- 3 cups of water or vegetable broth
- 1 pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Put wild rice in a fine sieve and rinse in the sink under cold running water. Then let the rice drain.
Step 2: Put rice in a pot, add 3 cups water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once the water has boiled, reduce the heat to maintain a slow but steady boil, then cover the pot.
Step 3: Cook wild rice on low flame for 50 minutes. You’ll know your wild rice is cooked when the outer sheath’s shine goes away, the grains split up, become tender, and the raw dark brownish color turns a shade lighter. If the wild rice is still not soft, add water and cook for another 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 5: Turn off the heat and let the wild rice sit for 10 minutes. Then, fluff wild rice with a fork and serve.
3. How To Cook Wild Rice in Rice Cooker
Ingredients
- 1 cup wild rice
- 3 cups of water or vegetable broth
- A pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Start by rinsing the wild rice under the tap water.
Step 2: Transfer the cleaned wild rice into the rice cooker then pour 3 cups of water over the rice. Next, sprinkle some salt and give the ingredients a quick stir using the ladle.
Step 3: Cover with the lid and turn on the rice cooker. Let it cook for 45 minutes. After which the rice cooker will automatically switch to warm mode so there is no risk of the rice getting over-cooked.
Step 4: Let the rice sit for 10 minutes in the rice cooker. Then, uncover the lid and fluff up with the fork. Now, your wild rice is gorgeously cooked and ready to serve!
4. How To Cook Wild Rice in Instant Pot
Ingredients
- 2 cups wild rice
- 6 cups of water or vegetable broth
Instructions
Step 1: Rinse the wild rice thoroughly and drain any excess water. Then put the rice into the instant pot and pour 6 cups of water.
Step 2: Cover with the lid and press the “Multi-Grain setting” on the Instant Pot. It will automatically show 40 minutes of cooking time.
Step 3: Once the time is up, let the pot release the pressure.
Step 4: Finally, remove the lid, fluff the rice using the fork, and serve.
5. Recipe Ideas & Uses For Cooked Wild Rice
Wild Rice Pilaf
Sauté onions, garlic, and diced carrots in olive oil. Add wild rice, broth, and herbs like thyme or parsley. Mix in toasted nuts (pecans, almonds) and dried fruit (cranberries, raisins) for a festive side dish.
Grain Bowls
Savory Bowl: Combine wild rice with roasted sweet potatoes, kale, avocado, chickpeas, and a tahini or miso dressing.
Asian-Inspired Bowl: Toss wild rice with edamame, cucumbers, shredded carrots, and sesame seeds. Top with a soy-ginger dressing.
Soups and Stews
Stir wild rice into creamy soups like chicken and mushroom, or use it in vegetable and lentil stews for added texture and heartiness.
Make a classic wild rice soup with a creamy base, shredded chicken, celery, carrots, and garlic.
Salads
Warm Salad: Mix wild rice with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and goat cheese. Dress with balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
Cold Salad: Toss with chopped apples, celery, walnuts, and a honey-Dijon dressing for a crunchy, refreshing dish.
Casseroles
Combine wild rice with sautéed vegetables, a creamy sauce, and shredded cheese. Layer in a casserole dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until bubbly and golden.
Now, you knew how to cook wild rice at home. I hope that after reading this article, you will have a great plate of cooked wild rice to enjoy and share my recipe with many people.
