Wild Rice with Cherries and Hazelnuts

1 C. wild rice

2-1/2 C. water

1/4 tsp. salt

Brown sugar or pure maple syrup

1/2 C. dried cherries

1/2 C. chopped hazelnuts, lightly toasted

Milk, soy milk, or cream

 

Place the wild rice, water, and salt in a medium-sized saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. When it reaches a boil, cover the pot, and lower the heat to a bare simmer. Cook for 1-1/4 hours, or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender and has “butterflied,” or burst open. (If the grain has become tender but there is still water left, drain it off.)  Remove from the heat and stir in the sugar or maple syrup and the cherries.  Serve hot, topped with chopped hazelnuts and the milk of your choice.