Experience the rich heritage and unparalleled nutrition of Minnesota Cultivated Wild Rice by Red Lake Nation Foods! This isn't just any rice—it's a treasured indigenous staple grown and harvested by the Red Lake Nation. Wild rice, Manoomin in Ojibwe, isn't technically rice, it's the seed of a marsh grass often called a pseudograin. Manoomin means "good seed." It packs a punch with more protein, minerals, and B vitamins than regular rice. Plus, it's gluten-free and low in fat, making it a perfect addition to any healthy lifestyle.
Wild rice holds deep cultural significance for the Ojibwe (Chippewa) people, symbolizing sustenance, community, and tradition. September, known as the "ricing moon," marked a time when Ojibwe families would gather at lakeside camps to harvest this vital grain. The meticulous process of drying, parching, and separating the rice was a communal effort, culminating in a festival of thanksgiving where the first batch of the season was cooked and shared. Beyond its nutritional value, wild rice was also a key trade item, supporting the Ojibwe's economy and sustaining those who traveled by canoe to trade furs.
16oz Bag
Red Lake Nation Foods is a Native American-owned company dedicated to producing specialty products that honor and represent the cultural heritage of the Red Lake Nation. Located in northern Minnesota, within the Red Lake Indian Reservation, the company serves over 10,000 members across four districts: Red Lake, Redby, Ponemah, and Little Rock. The reservation’s history dates back to the fur trade era, with significant Ojibwa settlement and the establishment of a British Northwest Co. trading post in 1806. Today, Red Lake Nation Foods continues to uphold the traditions and values of the Ojibwa people.
1. Use a 1:3 ratio of wild rice to liquid. For example, combine 1 cup of raw wild rice with 3 cups of water or broth.
2. Bring the liquid to a boil in a medium-sized pot.
3. Stir in the wild rice, then cover the pot with a lid.
4. Simmer for 45-60 minutes.
5. The wild rice is done when the kernels are tender but not mushy, and many have burst open to reveal a cream-colored interior. *Be careful not to overcook, as this can cause the split kernels to curl.
Cooked wild rice will keep in the refrigerator for two weeks. Uncooked wild rice will last for years. As always, we recommend storing uncooked grains in the refrigerator to retain freshness. Enjoy as a side dish or as part of your favorite recipe!