Simple Wild Rice Recipe
Introduction
Wild rice is a nutty, chewy whole grain that adds a unique texture and flavor to any meal. It’s simple to prepare and makes a hearty side dish or base for salads and bowls.

Ingredients
- 1 cup wild rice
- 4 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse the wild rice under cold water to remove any debris.
- Step 2: In a medium saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil.
- Step 3: Add the wild rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45-60 minutes until the grains are tender and some grains have burst open.
- Step 4: Drain any excess water and fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, cook the wild rice in broth instead of water.
- Mix cooked wild rice with sautéed vegetables and herbs for a nutritious salad.
- If you prefer a softer texture, soak the rice for a few hours before cooking to reduce cooking time.
Storage
Store cooked wild rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can wild rice be cooked in a rice cooker?
Yes, many rice cookers have a setting for wild rice or brown rice. Use the same ratio of water to rice and follow your rice cooker’s instructions, but check for doneness as cooking times can vary.
Is wild rice gluten-free?
Yes, wild rice is naturally gluten-free, making it a great whole-grain option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
PrintSimple Wild Rice Recipe
A simple and wholesome recipe for cooking wild rice to tender perfection. This easy method uses simmering to bring out the nutty flavor and chewy texture of wild rice, making it a versatile side dish for any meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-60 minutes
- Total Time: 50-65 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup wild rice
- 3 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Rinse the Wild Rice: Rinse the wild rice under cold running water to remove any debris or dust.
- Boil the Water: In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt to the boiling water to enhance the rice’s flavor.
- Simmer the Rice: Add the rinsed wild rice to the boiling water. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until the rice grains split open and become tender.
- Drain Excess Water: Once cooked, drain any remaining water from the rice using a fine mesh strainer.
- Serve: Fluff the wild rice with a fork and serve hot as a side dish or incorporate into your favorite recipes.
Notes
- Cooking time can vary depending on the rice variety and freshness; check tenderness starting at 45 minutes.
- For added flavor, cook rice in broth instead of water.
- Do not overcook to avoid mushy texture; wild rice should remain slightly chewy.
- Leftover wild rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Keywords: wild rice, side dish, gluten free, healthy rice recipe, stovetop rice

