Wild rice is actually a group of grasses that grow in shallow water in small lakes and slow-flowing streams.

Carrot Pecan Wild Rice

1 1/2 cups wild rice
2 carrots into 1/2-inch rounds
1/4 cup raisins
1/4 cup pecans
The zest and juice from 1 orange
1/4 cup chopped parsley
4 tablespoons (1/4 cup; 1/2 stick) melted butter
Salt and pepper to taste

1. Add wild rice to a sauce pot with about 4 1/2 cups of water, and cover.
2. Bring the rice to a boil and then simmer for about 40 minutes according to the package directions.
3. While the rice is cooking, slice carrots into 1/2-inch rounds and then simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes until they are tender.
4. In a large bowl combine raisins, pecans, the zest and juice from an orange, chopped parsley, melted butter and salt and pepper, to taste.
5. To the large bowl combine the wild rice and carrots. Mix.

Makes 8 servings.

Recipe and video provided courtesy of HolidayKitchen.tv. Photograph property of CooksRecipes.com.