Wild Rice with Walnuts

Walnuts are known for their unusually high content of omega-3 fat, they can help prevent heart disease, cancers, arthritis, skin complaints, and nervous system disorders.Walnuts are a good source of B vitamins.They are rich in antioxidants for health protection.They can lower bad cholesterol and blood pressure and increase elasticity of the arteries.
On the other hand the fiber in brown rice can help keep blood sugar levels even.Regular consumption of brown rice and other whole grains has been shown to help prevent heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers. It is considered one of the least allergenic foods.

Directions
2 tsp. organic coconut oil
1 small onion,finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 celery stalks, cut into 1/2 inch dice
1 carrot, quartered lengthwise and thinly sliced crosswise
1 cup wild rice
1 1/2 cups carrot juice (made with juicer)
1 1/2 cups water
3/4 tsp. sea salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
1/4 tsp. thyme
1/4 cup coarsely chopped walnuts
1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins

Directions
1.Heat oil in medium saucepan over low heat. Add onions and garlic to pan and cook, stirring frequently, until onion is tender, about 7 minutes.
2.Add celery and carrot to pan and cook, stirring frequently, until carrot is tender, about 5 minutes.
3.Stir in wild rice. Add carrot juice, water, salt, pepper, and thyme to pan and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook until wild rice is tender, about 1 hour (check after 45 minutes).
4.Meanwhile, toast walnuts in small skillet over low heat, stirring frequently until walnuts are crisp and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir walnuts and cranberries into wild rice just before serving.

Makes 4 servings

Secret to Success:
Cooking the rice in carrot juice rather that broth or water adds a touch of sweetness and colour to the dish, and boosts its beta-carotene content.

This wild rice recipe is a great side dish to any meal.Enjoy!

Sylvie Thibert