Wild rice is an aquatic cereal which grows wild primarily in the fields of the northern United States and southern Canada. An ancient grain, Native Americans were known to consume this crop as long as 12,000 years ago. In addition to being a human consumable, wild rice provides a protective habitat for fish and waterfowl. With a rather thick outer hull, wild rice needs to be cooked for quite some time before being consumed. With this said, once you learn to properly cook this grain, you are sure to love its aromatic taste and tantalizing texture.
Key Nutrients
Wild Rice provides a healthy source of fiber, minerals and B vitamins. Wild rice is also low in saturated and unsaturated fat content.
Health Benefits
Vitamin B1 – Thiamine is an important vitamin since it breaks down sugars in the body. Thiamine also helps to support nerve and heart health.
Vitamin B6 – Vitamin B6 helps to keep your immune system in good working order. It aids in the breakdown of fats, carbohydrates and amino acids while helping to maintain the health of lymph nodes. Additionally, vitamin B6 helps to regulate blood glucose levels.
Vitamin B9 – Folate is an important vitamin for liver function.
Vitamin B12 – Vitamin B12, or folic acid, helps to preserve neurological function and DNA synthesis. It also plays a key role in the health of red blood cells. The nervous system relies on vitamin B12 for proper function as well.
Dietary Fiber – Dietary Fiber stimulates digestion and peristalsis, helping to relieve indigestion and constipation problems.
Season
Since wild rice stores indefinitely, you can find it year round in your supermarket.
Nutrition Information
Per ¼ cup (40 grams):
Calories (cKal): 143
Protein (grams): 5.89
Total Fat (grams): .43
Carbohydrates (grams): 29.96
Fiber (grams): 2.5
Buying and Storing
Wild rice is best served boiled with a bit of orange juice or zest. Wild rice also makes a great base to a unique rice salad.
Wild Rice Recipe
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