Texas Pecan Rice

Texas Pecan Rice is a flavorful, nutty side dish that brings together tender rice, earthy mushrooms, and crunchy toasted pecans. Cooked in buttery goodness and infused with the mild bite of green onions, this dish pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a hearty vegetarian option. It’s a Southern-inspired comfort food that adds warmth and richness to any meal!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

½ cup olive oil

1 ½ cups sliced fresh mushrooms

3 green onions, chopped

1 cup uncooked rice (likely long-grain or jasmine)

2 cups broth (chicken or vegetable)

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)

Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Sauté Vegetables:

In a large skillet or saucepan, oil over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the green onions and cook for another minute.

Toast Rice:

Add the uncooked rice to the pan and stir to coat with butter, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly toasted.

Simmer:

Pour in the broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Add Pecans:

Remove from heat and stir in the toasted pecans.

Garnish and Serve:

Fluff the rice with a fork, sprinkle fresh thyme on top if desired, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations for Texas Pecan Rice

Tips:

✅ Toast the Pecans – For a richer, nuttier flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the dish.
✅ Use Good-Quality Rice – Long-grain white rice, jasmine rice, or even brown rice work well. Adjust the cooking time for brown rice.
✅ Sauté for Extra Flavor – Cooking the rice in butter for a couple of minutes before adding the broth enhances its taste.
✅ Let It Rest – After cooking, let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing to ensure the best texture.

Variations:

Herb Infusion – Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley for an aromatic twist.
Garlic Lover’s Version – Sauté minced garlic with the mushrooms for a deeper, savory flavor.
Cheesy Pecan Rice – Stir in grated Parmesan or crumbled feta for extra creaminess.
Sweet & Savory Twist – Add dried cranberries or golden raisins for a hint of sweetness.
️ Spicy Kick – Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a Tex-Mex flair.
Veggie Boost – Stir in sautéed bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach for added nutrients.

Common FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the rice and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or butter to maintain moisture.

What type of rice works best?
Long-grain white rice, jasmine rice, or basmati are ideal. Brown rice works too, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for olive oil or plant-based butter.

How do I make this dish more protein-packed?
Add diced grilled chicken, shrimp, or even chickpeas for extra protein.

Can I freeze Texas Pecan Rice?
Yes, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat with a little broth or butter.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate, Based on 4 Servings)

Calories: ~280 kcal

Carbohydrates: ~32g

Protein: ~5g

Fat: ~15g

Saturated Fat: ~5g

Fiber: ~2g

Sugars: ~1g

Sodium: ~200mg (varies based on broth used)