This simple pilaf brings together wild rice with cremini and shiitake mushrooms for a deeply earthy, nourishing side dish. Both varieties contain β-glucans that help strengthen mucosal immunity in the gut and support the activity of key immune cells—including macrophages, natural killer cells, and T cells—all while delivering deep, savory flavor. Wild rice offers slow-burning carbohydrates for steady energy, a nutty flavor that anchors the whole dish, and minerals like manganese that support antioxidant activity, connective tissue strength, and balanced cellular function. Serve this pilaf as a cozy weeknight side, a plant-forward holiday dish, or the base of a nourishing bowl topped with greens, roasted squash, or your favorite protein.
Ingredients
3 tablespoons
extra virgin olive oil
1 large
shallots
diced small
(about 1 to 1½ cups)
8 ounces
cremini mushrooms
cut into thick slices
8 ounces
shiitake mushrooms
cut into thick slices
3
celery stalks
diced
2 cloves
garlic
crushed
1 teaspoons
Herbamare
1 teaspoons
dried thyme
1 teaspoons
dried marjoram
½ teaspoons
dried sage
¾ cups
wild rice
¾ cups
long grain brown rice
3 cups
water
(or stock)
¼ cups
parsley
finely chopped
