Census-Style Multigrain Quinoa Pilaf
A nourishing, grain-based dish featuring quinoa, brown rice, and wild rice, symbolizing the diverse cultural roots of the U.S. population. This global grain-inspired one pot (vegetarian) ready in about 70 minutes pairs rinsed quinoa, uncooked brown rice, uncooked wild rice for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 230 calories and feeds 6, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1 cup, rinsed quinoa
- 1 cup, uncooked brown rice
- 1/2 cup, uncooked wild rice
- 1 small, diced onion
- 1 clove, minced garlic
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup, diced carrots
- 1/2 cup, diced celery
- 1/2 tsp, fresh or 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 small diced onion and 1 minced garlic clove, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened and golden.
- Step 2: Add 1 cup quinoa, 1 cup brown rice, and 1/2 cup wild rice. Stir to coat with oil, then add 3 cups chicken broth and 1 cup vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
- Step 3: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35-40 minutes until all liquids are absorbed and grains are tender.
- Step 4: Stir in 1/2 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/4 tsp dried) and season with salt and pepper. Fluff with a fork and serve as a complete grain dish.
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Census-Style Multigrain Quinoa Pilaf take to make?
Total time is about 70 minutes (25 min prep + 45 min cook). Most home cooks find this fits comfortably into a weeknight; double the batch on Sunday for two dinners.
How do I store leftover Census-Style Multigrain Quinoa Pilaf?
Cool to room temperature within 2 hours, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, or microwave at 70% power in 60-second bursts to keep rinsed quinoa from drying out.
Can I substitute ingredients in Census-Style Multigrain Quinoa Pilaf?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Census-Style Multigrain Quinoa Pilaf for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
Is Census-Style Multigrain Quinoa Pilaf vegetarian?
Yes — this recipe is tagged vegetarian based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.
What others are saying
- ★★★★☆
Good flavors but the sauce was a bit thin. I'd reduce it longer.
- ★★★★☆
Reliable weeknight option. Not going to blow your mind but always satisfying.
- ★★★★☆
Solid recipe. Not groundbreaking but definitely making it again.
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