Apple and Bacon Wild Rice

This is a fun side dish full of bacon and apples (classic combination of sweet and salty!).

You will need:

• 2 T olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 c wild rice blend
• 2 tart apples, peeled, cored  and chopped
• 1 1/2 c apple cider
• 1 c vegetable stock
• 1/4 t salt
• 1/4 t pepper
• 2 T unsalted butter
• 1/4 lb thick cut bacon, cooked and chopped

Then you will…

1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and saute for 3 minutes.
3. Mix in the rice and apples and saute for 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the cider, stock, salt and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil.
6. Cover and reduce heat to a simmer.
7. Allow to simmer until the rice is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
8. Mix in the butter and bacon before serving.