Earthy, savory, and irresistibly smoky, this Wild Rice with Mushrooms and Bacon recipe is a celebration of hearty flavors and wholesome ingredients. Tender wild rice is simmered to perfection, then combined with crispy, golden bacon and sautΓ©ed cremini mushrooms for a rich, umami-packed base. A sprinkle of fresh thyme and garlic infuses aromatic warmth, while a finishing touch of chopped parsley adds brightness to every bite. Perfect as a comforting side dish or a satisfying main course, this recipe is a versatile crowd-pleaser thatβs both rustic and refined. Ready in just over an hour and loaded with texture, itβs a must-try for mushroom lovers and bacon enthusiasts alike.
Rinse the wild rice under cold water using a fine mesh strainer.
In a medium saucepan, combine the wild rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes until the rice is tender and the grains are split open. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
While the rice cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Crumble once cool.
In the same skillet, remove excess bacon grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan. Add the butter and chopped mushrooms, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened and golden.
Stir in the minced garlic, fresh thyme, and black pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the cooked wild rice to the skillet with the mushroom mixture and stir to combine. Heat for 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.
Remove from heat and stir in the crumbled bacon and fresh parsley.
Serve hot as a side dish or enjoy as a nourishing entree.
Calories |
1071 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 43.9 g | 56% | |
| Saturated Fat | 20.1 g | 101% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 110 mg | 36% | |
| Sodium | 2051 mg | 89% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 137.4 g | 50% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.0 g | 50% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.8 g | ||
| Protein | 49.1 g | 98% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.9 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 95 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 4.6 mg | 26% | |
| Potassium | 1717 mg | 37% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.