Fruited Basmati and Wild Rice Blend With Pecans

• Ready In: 1 hr 30 mins
• Serves: 8-10

Ingredients

• 1⁄4 cup olive oil, divided
• 2  cups brown basmati rice, rinsed and drained
• 1  cup wild rice, rinsed and drained
• 6  cups  vegetable stock
• 1  teaspoon salt
• 2  cups green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 1⁄2 cups celery, diced
• 1  tablespoon garlic, minced
• 2  teaspoons dried thyme
• 1  teaspoon dried sage
• 1⁄2 cup dried cranberries
• 1⁄2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
• 1⁄3 cup  dried apricot, finely diced
• 1⁄3 cup  freshly chopped parsley
• 1 1⁄2 tablespoons tamari
• 1⁄2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, heat 2 T olive oil.
2. Add the basmati and wild rice, stir well to coat the rices with the oil, and saute for 5 minutes while stirring constantly.
3. Add the vegetable stock and salt, and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40 minutes.
5. Remove the pan from the heat, leave covered, and set aside for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam.
6. Meanwhile, in a large non-stick skillet, saute the green onion and celery in the remaining 2 T olive oil for 5-7 minutes or until soft.
7. Add the garlic and dried herbs, and saute an additional 2 minutes.
8. Add the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and dried apricots, and saute an additional 2 minutes.
9. Add the reserved rices, along with the remaining ingredients, stir well to combine, and continue to cook an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
10. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
11. Transfer the rice blend to a large bowl for service.