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Whole Grain Wild Rice
Grains
Nutri-ScoreA

Whole Grain Wild Rice

Zizania aquatica

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Whole Grain Wild Rice provides 101 kcal, 4g of protein, 21g of carbohydrates, and 3g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Whole grain wild rice is a nutritious grain known for its nutty flavor and chewy texture. It is rich in fiber, protein, and essential minerals, making it a healthy addition to various dishes.

Also known as:
Zizania (North America)Wild Rice (North America)
Scientific NameZizania aquatica
Region of OriginUnited States and Canada

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories101 kcal
Water
12%
Fiber3g
Total25.3g
Protein
4g(16%)
Fats
0.3g(1%)
Carbohydrates
21g(83%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.2 mg (17%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)2 mg (13%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.5 mg (10%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.1 mg (6%)
Folate9 µg (2%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin A: 0 µgVitamin C: 0 mgVitamin D: 0 µgVitamin E: 0.1 mgVitamin K: 0.2 µgVitamin B12: 0 µgCholine: 0.6 mg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Iron0.5 mg (3%)
Magnesium39 mg (10%)
Phosphorus113 mg (16%)
Potassium150 mg (4%)
Zinc1 mg (9%)
Copper0.2 mg (22%)
Manganese1 mg (43%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Calcium: 3 mgSelenium: 0.6 µg

Health Benefits

Whole grain wild rice is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.
It contains antioxidants and essential nutrients that may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Rinse the wild rice thoroughly before cooking. Boil in water or broth for about 45-60 minutes until tender. It can be used in salads, soups, or as a side dish.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose wild rice that is dark in color and has a firm texture. Avoid any that appears broken or has an off smell.

How to Store

Store uncooked wild rice in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Cooked wild rice should be refrigerated and consumed within a week.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Digestive
Main Applications
Weight management
Heart health
Bioactive Compounds
Anthocyanins

Compounds that provide antioxidant benefits and may reduce inflammation.

How to Consume
Cooked, Salads, Soups
Did you know?

"Wild rice is not actually rice but a type of aquatic grass that grows in shallow waters."

Myths vs Realities

MythWild rice is just a type of rice.
RealityWild rice is actually a type of aquatic grass, not a true rice.
MythAll wild rice is the same.
RealityThere are different varieties of wild rice, each with unique flavors and nutritional profiles.
MythWild rice is difficult to cook.
RealityCooking wild rice is similar to cooking other grains; it just requires a longer cooking time.

Healthy Recipes

Wild Rice and Quinoa Salad

A refreshing salad combining whole grain wild rice and quinoa, tossed with colorful vegetables and a zesty lemon dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked whole grain wild rice
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked wild rice and quinoa.
  2. 2. Add the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and parsley.
  3. 3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, then pour over the salad and toss to combine.

Wild Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of wild rice, black beans, corn, and spices, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 2 cups cooked whole grain wild rice
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix together the cooked wild rice, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, and salt.
  3. 3. Stuff the halved bell peppers with the mixture, top with cheese if desired, and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Wild Rice and Mushroom Risotto

A creamy risotto made with whole grain wild rice and earthy mushrooms, finished with fresh herbs for a comforting dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup whole grain wild rice
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, heat olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
  2. 2. Add the mushrooms and cook until softened, then stir in the wild rice.
  3. 3. Gradually add vegetable broth, stirring frequently, until the rice is tender. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.

Wild Rice and Spinach Soup

A nourishing soup packed with whole grain wild rice, fresh spinach, and aromatic herbs, perfect for any season.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked whole grain wild rice
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
  2. 2. Add the vegetable broth and bring to a boil, then stir in the cooked wild rice and thyme.
  3. 3. Simmer for 10 minutes, then add the spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.

Wild Rice and Roasted Vegetable Bowl

A hearty bowl featuring whole grain wild rice topped with roasted seasonal vegetables and a tahini dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked whole grain wild rice
  • 2 cups assorted vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, carrots), chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and toss the chopped vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve the wild rice topped with roasted vegetables and drizzle with tahini dressing made by whisking tahini and lemon juice.

Wild Rice and Chickpea Patties

Delicious and nutritious patties made from wild rice and chickpeas, perfect for a healthy snack or meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked whole grain wild rice
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mash the chickpeas and mix in the wild rice, onion, breadcrumbs, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Form the mixture into patties.
  3. 3. Heat olive oil in a pan and cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Wild Rice and Avocado Sushi Rolls

Healthy sushi rolls made with whole grain wild rice, fresh avocado, and crunchy vegetables, perfect for a light meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked whole grain wild rice
  • 4 sheets nori
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • Soy sauce for dipping
Instructions
  1. 1. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat and spread a thin layer of wild rice over it.
  2. 2. Arrange avocado, cucumber, and carrot on top of the rice.
  3. 3. Roll tightly and slice into pieces. Serve with soy sauce.

Wild Rice Breakfast Bowl

A nutritious breakfast bowl featuring whole grain wild rice topped with fresh fruits, nuts, and a drizzle of honey.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked whole grain wild rice
  • 1/2 banana, sliced
  • 1/4 cup berries (strawberries, blueberries)
  • 2 tablespoons nuts (almonds, walnuts)
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/2 cup almond milk
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, layer the cooked wild rice as the base.
  2. 2. Top with banana slices, berries, and nuts.
  3. 3. Drizzle with honey and almond milk before serving.

Wild Rice and Lentil Pilaf

A wholesome pilaf combining whole grain wild rice and lentils, infused with spices and served with fresh herbs.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked whole grain wild rice
  • 1 cup cooked lentils
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon coriander
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add the cooked lentils, wild rice, cumin, and coriander, stirring to combine.
  3. 3. Cook for an additional 5 minutes and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Wild Rice and Beet Salad

A vibrant salad featuring whole grain wild rice, roasted beets, and feta cheese, drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked whole grain wild rice
  • 2 medium beets, roasted and diced
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, diced beets, and feta cheese.
  2. 2. In a separate bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is wild rice gluten-free?

Yes, wild rice is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance.

How do I cook wild rice?

Rinse the wild rice, then boil it in water or broth for about 45-60 minutes until tender.

What are the health benefits of wild rice?

Wild rice is high in fiber, protein, and antioxidants, which can support digestive health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Can wild rice be eaten cold?

Yes, cooked wild rice can be chilled and added to salads or served as a cold side dish.

How should I store wild rice?

Store uncooked wild rice in a cool, dry place in an airtight container. Cooked wild rice can be refrigerated for up to a week.

Is wild rice more nutritious than white rice?

Yes, wild rice is generally more nutritious than white rice, offering more fiber, protein, and essential nutrients.

Can I use wild rice in soups?

Absolutely! Wild rice adds a unique flavor and texture to soups and stews.

How long does wild rice last?

Uncooked wild rice can last for several years if stored properly, while cooked wild rice should be consumed within a week.