Healthy and versatile, this side dish has a great combination of texture and flavor. The nutty base of wild rice is studded with crisp chunks of tart apple and chewy barberries, although dried cranberries or tart cherries would also be delicious.These complement the umami of the mushrooms and the salty shavings of cheese. The secret ingredient that brings it all together is savory. If you’ve never played with this herb, this dish is the perfect stage. Traditionally used in French herbal blends, savory is a powerhouse of flavor, delivering notes of like pepper, thyme and rosemary that make the one ingredient taste like many. This hearty side dish can be served with just about any protein alongside and is great for brunch through dinner. We also admit to eating it cold straight from the fridge the next day.

Wild Rice with Savory and Oyster Mushrooms

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound oyster mushrooms, chopped
• 1 teaspoon savory
• 1/4 cup shallot, julienned
• 1/2 cup vegetable stock
• 3 cups cooked wild rice
• 2 tablespoons barberries, dried cranberries or dried tart cherries
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon Alderwood Smoked Salt
• 1 cup Granny Smith apple, diced
• 1/4 cup roughly chopped spinach
• 1/4 cup shaved pecorino cheese

Instructions

1. Add the olive oil to a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the mushrooms, shallots and savory, and cook until the mushrooms are browned and tender, about 5 minutes. Add the stock, cooked wild rice, dried fruit, maple syrup and smoked salt.
2. Continue cooking until the liquid has evaporated and the ingredients are well warmed and combined, about 5 minutes more.
3. Remove from heat and add the apple and spinach, stirring to combine.
4. Portion into bowls and garnish with pecorino cheese.

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