posted by Ivanka 11-02-101 7:46 AM
"A Feast of Fruits" and it is by Elizabeth Riely.
Wild Rice Pilaf with Dried Cranberries and Mushrooms
3 T. butter
3 oz mushrooms, thinly sliced
2 shallots, minced
1 c. uncooked wild rice, well rinsed and drained
2 1/2 c. chicken stock or water
1/2 c. dried cranberries
1/4 c. hazelnuts or other nuts, lightly toasted
3 T. chopped fresh watercress
salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
watercress for garnish
Melt half the butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. When it begins to foam, add the mushrooms and cook, stirring, until their juice is mostly evaporated, about 5 minutes. Toss in the shallots and cook a few minutes more to soften. With a slotted spoon remove the mushroom mixture to a bowl and reserve.
Add the remaining butter to the pan and stir the wild rice in it for about 2 minutes. Add the chicken stock, bring to a boil, and simmer over low heat until the grains of rice are plump and tender but not splayed, about 30 minutes. You may need to drain a little of the liquid at the end. Stir in the cranberries, cover, and let the rice steam in its own heat for a few minutes. Mix in the mushrooms and shallots, hazelnuts, and watercress. Season with salt and pepper, and serve with sprigs of fresh watercress.
Makes 6 to 8 servings.