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There’s something truly special about preparing a dish that evokes warm memories. For many, the comforting aroma of savory turkey and wild rice pilaf simmering on the stove fills the house with a welcoming scent that wraps around you like a cozy blanket. Growing up, my family would gather around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter, with this pilaf often taking center stage. It’s a dish that brings together simple ingredients, transforming them into something delicious while creating a sense of togetherness. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, this Savory Turkey and Wild Rice Pilaf is sure to please.

Savory Turkey and Wild Rice Pilaf

Experience the heartwarming flavors of Savory Turkey and Wild Rice Pilaf, a dish that brings comfort and togetherness to your table. This delicious recipe features lean ground turkey, nutty wild rice, and a medley of colorful vegetables, enhanced by the sweetness of dried cranberries and crunch of nuts. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, this pilaf is not just a meal but a memorable experience. Gather your ingredients and enjoy the warm aromas of this delightful dish.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup wild rice, thoroughly rinsed and drained

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground turkey, lean

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried sage

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 cup carrots, diced into small cubes

1 cup celery, diced

1/2 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped

1/2 cup slivered almonds or chopped walnuts (your choice)

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed wild rice with the low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and allow to simmer for approximately 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth. Once done, fluff the rice gently with a fork and set aside.

    In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté the mixture until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

      Next, add the ground turkey to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it is browned and fully cooked, approximately 5-7 minutes.

        Sprinkle in the dried thyme, sage, and smoked paprika, then season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to your liking. Stir well to ensure even distribution of the spices.

          Incorporate the diced carrots and celery into the turkey mixture. Continue cooking for an additional 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables have softened but still have a slight crunch.

            Carefully fold the cooked wild rice into the skillet with the turkey and vegetable mixture. Add the chopped dried cranberries and slivered almonds (or walnuts), stirring gently until everything is heated through and well combined.

              Take a moment to taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Once satisfied, remove the skillet from heat.

                Serve this delightful pilaf warm, garnishing each portion with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

                    - Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve the pilaf in a large bowl or individual plates, and top with extra slivered almonds and a few whole cranberries for decoration. Pair with a light salad for a complete meal!