Description

Wild rice blend is a combination of good quality brown rice (short grain, medium grain or long grain) along with wild rice. This blend makes it a highly nutritious diet for one who wants to stay fit. Wild rice which is the integral part of this blend is the seed of an aquatic grass. It is not rice in the true sense but is harvested from a grass native to U.S and Canada. The kernels are narrow and long in size, dark brown or black in colour and have a nutty flavour which distinguishes it from other kernel products. It is not freely available everywhere and is thus highly priced. Brown rice which is the other ingredient used in this blend is rice with its bran intact. It is light brown in colour, has a crunchy, coarse texture and a nutty flavour which complements wild rice.

Do note that wild rice blend takes time to cook as compared to white rice. A cup of wild rice blend may take upto 40 minutes to cook. Once cooked keep covered for 10 more minutes before serving.

How to select

Buy rice in the packaged grains section of grocery and specialty stores. Look for intact kernels that aren't broken, scratched, or damaged. Since this is a high end product, it may not be sold loose for bulk.

Culinary Uses

· Use wild rice blend like you would use rice for any preparation. It can serve as an excellent accompaniment to meat, poultry or as a stuffing.
· Use it chilled to make salads of your choice with toasted pecans, gorgonzola cheese or simply a chilled dressing that comes to your mind.
· Use along with roasted exotic vegetables to make delicious pilafs.
· Since it is a nutritious delight, use it along with vegetables or pearl barley to make soups.

How to store

Store wild rice blend in a cool, dry area in an air tight container, away from moisture. Cooked rice can be refrigerated for up to seven days, but is best cooked and served fresh.
Health benefits
Research states that wild rice is rich in niacin, thiamine and riboflavin. It is high in protein and has a low fat content. Brown rice is also high in protein, magnesium and fibre. Thus the blend of both is definitely high in nutritional value.