Wild Rice

This grain-like plant is not actually a type of rice, but rather an aquatic grass that bears edible seeds. It grows wild in marshy areas of rivers and lakes and may be found growing wild in northern Wisconsin and Minnesota, and in southern Canada. It is also cultivated in paddy fields in Minnesota and California.

The grains vary in size, colour and quality depending on where they are grown. For example, wild grains from the lakes of Minnesota may range in colour from yellow, through to tan, brown, to almost black, and in length from 12 mm to 20 mm, making them longer than most long-grain rice varieties. Canadian wild rice is usually even longer, reaching lengths of up to 25 mm, earning them the title of 'jumbo' wild rice. Cultivated wild rice is grown in controlled paddies, resulting in a more consistent colour and size. On drying, the cultivated grains may become almost black in appearance. True wild rice is quite expensive as it is hand-harvested from lakes and rivers; however, although cultivated wild rice is cheaper than true wild grains, it is not nearly as flavourful.

Called 'mahnomen' (the good berry) by Native Americans, wild rice has a characteristic, nutty flavour and a pleasantly chewy texture. The grains have such a distinctive flavour that they are very often mixed in with other varieties of long-grained rice without any real detriment to their taste. Not only does this tend to make the rice product less expensive, but it also gives an attractive contrast in colour.

Wild rice is often served with stews, casseroles or other dishes as an alternative to rice or potatoes. It also makes an excellent stuffing for poultry and game birds. It adds flavour to rice or green salads and it is one of the best accompaniments for fish and poultry.

Wild rice usually requires more time to cook than regular rice; bring to the boil in salted water, then cover and simmer for 45–60 minutes or until the grains are just starting to open. The grains swell to 3 or 4 times their original size when cooked, and about 13 g of uncooked rice will give you a perfectly adequate serving.