Why You’ll Love Harvest Rice Recipe
- Packed with savory, sweet, and nutty flavors.
- A perfect side dish for holiday meals and special occasions.
- Made with wholesome brown and wild rice for great texture.
- Loaded with colorful vegetables and fresh herbs.
- Toasted almonds add a satisfying crunch.
- Easy to prepare in a single pan.
- Reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 8 ounces mushrooms, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 3/4 cups brown and wild rice mix
- 5 cups low-sodium or no-sodium chicken broth
- 3/4 cup chopped craisins
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup slivered and toasted almonds
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Directions
- Melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Stir in the mushrooms and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until softened.
- Season with the salt, black pepper, and fresh thyme, stirring to combine.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine and bring it to a gentle boil. Stir in the brown and wild rice mix, cooking until most of the wine has been absorbed.
- Add the chicken broth and stir well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the chopped craisins, frozen peas, and half of the toasted almonds. Cover and continue cooking for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Sprinkle the remaining toasted almonds and chopped parsley over the top before serving warm.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 8
Variations
- Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make the dish vegetarian.
- Add cooked turkey or shredded chicken to turn it into a complete meal.
- Replace the craisins with dried cherries or chopped apricots for a different sweetness.
- Stir in baby spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for extra greens.
- Swap the almonds for toasted pecans or walnuts.
- Add diced carrots or celery along with the onions for additional flavor and texture.
- Finish with grated Parmesan cheese for a richer, savory twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover Harvest Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, let the rice cool completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to restore moisture, or microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals until heated through.
FAQs
Can I make Harvest Rice ahead of time?
Yes. It can be prepared a day in advance and reheated before serving, making it an excellent choice for holiday meals.
Can I use only brown rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid according to the package directions.
What type of mushrooms work best?
Cremini, white button, or baby bella mushrooms all work well in this recipe.
Is the white wine necessary?
No. You can substitute additional chicken broth if you prefer to cook without wine.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes. Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Carrots, celery, spinach, kale, or roasted butternut squash all make excellent additions.
How do I keep the rice from becoming mushy?
Use the recommended amount of liquid, avoid overcooking, and let the rice rest for a few minutes before serving.
Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes. Fresh peas can be added during the final few minutes of cooking until tender.
What main dishes pair well with Harvest Rice?
It pairs wonderfully with roast turkey, baked chicken, pork loin, grilled steak, or roasted vegetables.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Properly stored, Harvest Rice freezes well for up to 3 months without losing much of its texture.
Conclusion
Harvest Rice is a comforting, flavorful side dish that brings together wholesome grains, savory mushrooms, sweet dried cranberries, vibrant peas, and crunchy toasted almonds in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this versatile recipe is sure to become a favorite thanks to its rich flavors, satisfying texture, and easy preparation.
Harvest Rice
This hearty harvest rice combines brown and wild rice with mushrooms, onions, cranberries, peas, and toasted almonds for a flavorful and comforting side dish. It’s perfect for holiday meals or weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 8 ounces mushrooms, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper, or to taste
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 3/4 cups brown and wild rice mix
- 5 cups low-sodium or no-sodium chicken broth
- 3/4 cup craisins, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup slivered toasted almonds
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until translucent.
- Add the mushrooms and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the salt, pepper, and fresh thyme.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the white wine, bring to a boil, and stir in the rice until the liquid is absorbed.
- Add the chicken broth, stir well, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer over medium-low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the craisins, frozen peas, and half of the toasted almonds. Cover and cook for another 5 to 10 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish with the remaining toasted almonds and chopped parsley before serving warm.
Notes
- Toast the almonds before adding for extra flavor and crunch.
- Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth if desired.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat with a splash of broth to restore moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 340 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg