Orange Pecan Wild (or Brown) Rice

Amazing Appetizers!

Fun to make/eat and it’s a sneaky way to get your kids to eat some fruit (shhhhh!) – Enjoy!

1 cup wild or Brown rice (can substitute Orzo)
1 1/4 cups chicken or veggie stock, preferably homemade
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Kosher salt
1 cup seedless green grapes, halved
1 cup mandarin oranges
1/2 cup scallions, sliced in rounds, white and light green parts (2 scallions)
1 cup pecan halves, toasted and coarsely chopped (Optional)
1 teaspoon grated orange zest
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1. Place the rice/orzo, chicken stock, 1 1/4 cups water, 1 tablespoon butter, and 1 teaspoon salt in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat.

2. Cover the pot and lower the heat to simmer and cook until the rice is tender and the grains begin to burst open (Orzo will obviously cook MUCH faster so keep an eye on it!). Stir the rice occasionally while it's cooking, scraping the bottom of the pan to prevent it from sticking.

3. Turn off the heat and allow the rice to steam for about 5 minutes.

4. Stir the remaining tablespoon of butter into the rice, then add the grapes, mandarin oranges, scallions, pecans, orange zest, orange juice, 1 teaspoon salt, and the pepper and toss well.

5. Taste for seasonings and serve hot (can be served at room temp as well!).