Wild And Brown Rice Dressing With Apples, Pecans And Cranberries

Directions

1. 1
   In a large saucepan, simmer the wild rice in 4 1/2 cups broth, salt to taste, until the grains start to break open; drain off any liquid, return to the pot and stretch a clean kitchen towel beneath the lid and let sit 10 to 15 minutes.
2. 2
   Meanwhile, in a smaller saucepan, simmer the brown rice, with 1 1/2 cups broth, salt, until tender and all the liquid has been absorbed, 35 to 40 minutes; turn off heat and stretch a clean kitchen towel under the lid and let sit 10 to 15 minutes.
3. 3
   In a large skillet, heat oil, over medium heat, and cook the onion, stirring often, until it begins to soften, about 3 minutes.
4. 4
   Add celery and a generous pinch of salt, and continue cooking another 3 or 4 minutes; stir in garlic, if using, and cook 30 seconds.
5. 5
   Remove from heat and transfer to a large bowl; add rices and toss well.
6. 6
   Increase the heat in the skillet to medium high and add the butter; when the foaming subsides, add apple, stirring until they begin to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
7. 7
   Remove from heat and add to the rice mixture; add remaining ingredients, toss and season to taste with salt and pepper.
8. 8
   Preheat oven to 325 degrees F; grease a large baking dish with butter or oil.
9. 9
   Transfer rice mixture to baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and warm in oven for 20 to 30 minutes.
10. 10
    NOTE: The rices can be cooked up to 3 days in advance. The entire dish is better the second day, so you can make it a day ahead and heat the day you are serving it.