Easy Holiday Rice

The smell of cinnamon and cloves wafting from the kitchen always signals the start of the holiday season at our house. This easy holiday rice, with its vibrant cranberries and crunchy pecans, is a recipe I’ve made countless times in my kitchen. It’s become a staple on our Thanksgiving and Christmas tables. It’s not overly sweet, making it the perfect complement to savory dishes. You know what? Even my picky eaters love it! If you’re looking for a simple, yet impressive side dish that brings a touch of Texas warmth to your holiday gathering, you’ve come to the right place. I promise this recipe will deliver a flavorful and festive addition to your table, without keeping you chained to the stove.

Why This Recipe Works

Let’s be honest, during the holidays, time is of the essence. This easy holiday rice is a winner because it’s:

• Quick & Easy: It comes together in under an hour, using mostly pantry staples.
• Kid-Friendly: The subtle sweetness and colorful additions make it appealing to even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile: It pairs well with a variety of main courses, from turkey to ham to even roasted vegetables.

After many trials in my own kitchen (and with the valuable feedback of my family!), I’ve perfected a recipe that’s not only delicious but also stress-free. You can even make parts of it ahead of time. It’s a holiday miracle!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Notes

The quality of your ingredients matters! Using good quality chicken broth makes a big difference in the overall flavor. As for the rice, long-grain rice works best for its fluffy texture. You can substitute with basmati rice if you prefer. If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts or almonds would be great substitutes. Don’t be afraid to experiment! I usually get my cranberries and pecans from my local supermarket, but you can find them at any well-stocked grocery store.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Onion. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and translucent. The aroma filling your kitchen is the first sign of holiday magic!

Step 2: Add Rice and Toast. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat it with the melted butter and onion. Toast the rice for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step helps to enhance the nutty flavor of the rice.

Step 3: Add Broth and Spices. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the dried cranberries, pecans, cinnamon, and cloves. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to combine.

Step 4: Simmer. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. After testing this several times, I learned that peeking is a no-no! Keep the lid on for best results.

Step 5: Fluff and Serve. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. The bright green parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Storage & Meal Prep

Leftover holiday rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through, or gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent it from drying out. This rice is fantastic for meal prepping! You can easily make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week as a side dish or even mixed into salads.

Substitutions & Variations

Want to put your own spin on this holiday rice? Here are a few ideas:

• Gluten-Free: Make sure your chicken broth is certified gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Use olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute instead of butter.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Seasonal Twist: Add a 1/4 cup of chopped apple or pear for a fall-inspired flavor.
• Flavor Boost: Add a tablespoon of orange zest for a brighter, citrusy flavor.

I’ve tried the vegetarian and dairy-free variations with great success. The seasonal twist with chopped apple is a personal favorite during the Thanksgiving season!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can! You can cook the rice a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving, adding a little broth if needed to remoisten. You can also chop the onions ahead of time to save even more time on the day you’re cooking.

How do I know when the rice is done?

The rice is done when all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender. If the rice is still a little crunchy but the liquid is gone, add a splash more broth and continue simmering for a few more minutes.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

You can, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook and requires more liquid. I haven’t personally tested it with brown rice, but a general rule of thumb is to increase the cooking time by about 20-30 minutes and add about 1/2 cup more broth.

What if I don’t have pecans?

No problem! Walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds would be great substitutes. You can also omit the nuts altogether if you prefer.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! The subtle sweetness of the cranberries and the crunch of the pecans make it appealing to kids. If you have particularly picky eaters, you can start with a smaller amount of cranberries and pecans and gradually increase the amount as they get used to the flavors. My kids love it!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. To reheat, simply microwave or warm it on the stovetop with a little broth to remoisten.

Serving Suggestions

This easy holiday rice is the perfect side dish for your holiday feast! It pairs wonderfully with:

• Roasted turkey or chicken
• Honey-baked ham
• Roasted vegetables
• Pork loin

For a simple plating idea, mound the rice on a serving platter and garnish with extra chopped parsley and a sprinkle of pecans. A few sprigs of fresh rosemary would also add a festive touch.

This easy holiday rice is more than just a recipe; it’s a way to bring a little bit of Texas comfort and joy to your family’s holiday table. It’s quick, easy, and customizable, making it the perfect solution for busy parents who want to create memorable meals. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your results in the comments below! And if you’re looking for more family-friendly recipes, be sure to check out other recipes on FamiliesRecipes.com, and sign up for our newsletter for more delicious content delivered straight to your inbox. Happy cooking, y’all!

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