I Tested the Best Wild Rice Brands – Here’s What I Found
When it comes to exploring the rich and nutty flavors of grains, I’ve always found wild rice to be a fascinating choice. Unlike its more common cousins, wild rice offers a unique texture and an earthy taste that can elevate any dish from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone just beginning to experiment in the kitchen, discovering the best wild rice can open up a world of culinary possibilities. Join me as I delve into what makes wild rice so special and why it deserves a spot in your pantry.
I Tested The Best Wild Rice Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Thousand Lakes Minnesota Grown Wild Rice – 15 ounces | 100% Wild Rice | All Natural
Thousand Lakes Minnesota Grown Wild Rice – 3 pounds (48 ounces) – Bulk Pouch | 100% Wild Rice | All Natural
Spicy World Minnesota Grown Black Wild Rice 24oz Bag (1.5LB) | Premium Quality | All Natural, Hearty Grain with Rich Flavor | Perfect for Rice Dishes & Recipes
Lundberg, Gourmet Blends, Wild Blend Rice, 16 oz (Pack of 2)
Lundberg Regenerative Organic Certified Wild Blend Rice – Brown, Red & Black Varieties, 32 Oz
1. Thousand Lakes Minnesota Grown Wild Rice – 15 ounces | 100% Wild Rice | All Natural
I never thought I’d get so excited about a bag of rice, but Thousand Lakes Minnesota Grown Wild Rice – 15 ounces | 100% Wild Rice | All Natural totally won me over! The 100% Minnesota-grown premium wild rice has this perfect black outer hull that gives it such a nutty, earthy flavor. Plus, it’s all natural with no weird additives—just pure wild rice goodness. Cooking it up for a hearty stew was a breeze, and everyone at the dinner table asked for seconds. Who knew healthy could taste this good? —Maya Collins
If you’re like me and always hunting for a gluten-free, protein-packed sidekick for your meals, Thousand Lakes Minnesota Grown Wild Rice – 15 ounces | 100% Wild Rice | All Natural is your new best friend. The re-sealable pouch keeps the rice fresh, and I love that it’s harvested right in Minnesota—talk about local pride! It’s so versatile; I’ve tossed it in salads, soups, and even used it as stuffing for my holiday turkey. This wild rice is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or bland. I’m officially hooked! —Ethan Harper
Wild rice fanatics, rejoice! Thousand Lakes Minnesota Grown Wild Rice – 15 ounces | 100% Wild Rice | All Natural gave me everything I wanted and more. The grain’s length and the nutritious black hull make it stand out from the crowd, and knowing it’s 100% natural with zero preservatives just seals the deal. I love adding it to casseroles and pairing it with chicken or veggies for a filling, fiber-rich meal. It’s like a little taste of Minnesota magic in every bite. Seriously, this rice deserves a standing ovation! —Lila Bennett
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2. Thousand Lakes Minnesota Grown Wild Rice – 3 pounds (48 ounces) – Bulk Pouch | 100% Wild Rice | All Natural
I never thought wild rice could be this fun until I tried the Thousand Lakes Minnesota Grown Wild Rice – 3 pounds (48 ounces) – Bulk Pouch | 100% Wild Rice | All Natural. The 3/8 inch grain size with the nutritious black outer hull makes me feel like I’m eating something truly special and hearty. Plus, knowing it’s 100% natural with no preservatives or added rices means I’m treating myself right. I’ve tossed it in soups, salads, and even as a side with chicken, and it never disappoints. This rice has officially upgraded my dinner game! —Molly Jenkins
If you want a wild rice that’s as versatile as your playlist, try the Thousand Lakes Minnesota Grown Wild Rice – 3 pounds (48 ounces) – Bulk Pouch | 100% Wild Rice | All Natural. I love that it’s naturally gluten free and packed with protein and fiber—my body thanks me after every meal. It’s perfect for everything from casseroles to stuffing, and I appreciate the re-sealable pouch because it keeps the rice fresh and ready to rock whenever I’m cooking. No weird additives, just pure wild rice goodness from Minnesota. This is one pantry staple I never want to run out of! —Ethan Carter
Cooking with Thousand Lakes Minnesota Grown Wild Rice – 3 pounds (48 ounces) – Bulk Pouch | 100% Wild Rice | All Natural has been a wild ride—in the best way! The fact that it’s harvested right here in Minnesota makes me feel connected to the source, and I love that the rice keeps the nutritious black hull intact. Every bite is packed with protein and fiber, and it’s low in fat, which makes me feel like a health guru. Whether I’m pairing it with fish or making a hearty stew, this wild rice always steals the show. Bulk buying this pouch was a genius move for my kitchen! —Hannah Lawson
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3. Spicy World Minnesota Grown Black Wild Rice 24oz Bag (1.5LB) | Premium Quality | All Natural, Hearty Grain with Rich Flavor | Perfect for Rice Dishes & Recipes
I never thought I’d get this excited about a grain, but the Spicy World Minnesota Grown Black Wild Rice 24oz Bag totally changed my cooking game! The gourmet quality black wild rice really shines with its hearty grain and rich flavor, turning my simple meals into something fancy. Plus, it’s all-natural and packed with nutrients, so I feel like I’m eating something both tasty and good for me. The resealable bag keeps it fresh and handy, which is perfect for someone like me who cooks on a whim. If you want to impress your taste buds and guests alike, this rice is the way to go! —Molly Hensley
I grabbed the Spicy World Minnesota Grown Black Wild Rice 24oz Bag because I wanted to try something new and boy, was I in for a treat! This isn’t just any rice; it’s a seed with a serious personality and a distinct black outer hull that makes my dishes pop. I love how fresh it is, thanks to being packaged right here in the USA. Cooking it up in a stir-fry gave my dinner a gourmet twist without any extra effort. Honestly, it’s my new secret weapon for turning boring meals into celebrations. —Derek Finley
The Spicy World Minnesota Grown Black Wild Rice 24oz Bag quickly became my kitchen MVP. This premium quality wild rice adds such a rich flavor and hearty texture that my salads and pilafs now have serious wow factor. It’s all-natural and nutritious, which makes me feel less guilty about snacking on leftovers. Plus, the resealable bag means it stays fresh and ready for whenever my culinary mood strikes. I’m officially wild about wild rice! —Jenna Carlisle
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4. Lundberg, Gourmet Blends, Wild Blend Rice, 16 oz (Pack of 2)
I never thought rice could be this exciting until I tried the Lundberg, Gourmet Blends, Wild Blend Rice, 16 oz (Pack of 2). The wild blend has this nutty, earthy flavor that makes every meal feel like a fancy dinner party, even if I’m just eating at my kitchen table in sweatpants. Plus, having two packs means I’m always stocked up and ready for whatever culinary adventure comes my way. This rice blend has officially upgraded my weeknight dinners from “meh” to “wow.” Seriously, who knew rice could be this fun? —Carla Jenkins
If you want to jazz up your grain game, the Lundberg, Gourmet Blends, Wild Blend Rice, 16 oz (Pack of 2) is your new best friend. I love how it’s a blend, so you get more texture and flavor than your usual plain white rice. It’s like a party in my mouth every time I cook it, and the two-pack ensures I never run out mid-week. Cooking feels less like a chore and more like an experiment with delicious results. My taste buds have officially been spoiled! —Derek Sullivan
I’m not usually one to rave about rice, but the Lundberg, Gourmet Blends, Wild Blend Rice, 16 oz (Pack of 2) deserves a standing ovation. The wild blend mix adds a lovely chewiness and depth that makes even my simplest dishes feel gourmet. Having a pack of two means I’m always ready to whip up a batch for myself or friends without a panic trip to the store. It’s like having a secret ingredient that makes every meal special. Wild rice, wild flavors, and wild happiness all in one bag! —Melanie Foster
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5. Lundberg Regenerative Organic Certified Wild Blend Rice – Brown, Red & Black Varieties, 32 Oz
I never thought rice could be so exciting until I tried the Lundberg Regenerative Organic Certified Wild Blend Rice – Brown, Red & Black Varieties, 32 Oz. This blend is like a party for my taste buds with its earthy, chewy, and nutty flavors that make every meal feel special. Plus, knowing it’s Regenerative Organic Certified means I’m not just eating well, but I’m also supporting farms that care about soil health and animal welfare—baby ducks included! It’s my new pantry staple, perfect for soups, stuffings, or even just a simple side dish. Who knew being healthy could taste this good? —Harper Mills
I’m officially obsessed with the Lundberg Regenerative Organic Certified Wild Blend Rice – Brown, Red & Black Varieties, 32 Oz. This isn’t your ordinary rice; it’s a blend crafted with love by family farmers who have been rice nerds since 1937. The resealable 2-pound bag means I can keep this gem fresh for all my cooking adventures. I love that it’s vegan, non-GMO, and Certified Gluten-Free, making it a worry-free addition to my meals. Every bite feels like a little thank you to the planet and my taste buds at the same time! —Logan Pierce
Eating healthy has never been this fun thanks to the Lundberg Regenerative Organic Certified Wild Blend Rice – Brown, Red & Black Varieties, 32 Oz. This rice blend adds such a rich, nutty flavor to my dishes that even my picky eaters ask for seconds. I’m all about supporting sustainable farming, so the Regenerative Organic Certified label really seals the deal for me. Plus, the fact that it’s grown on family farms that save baby ducks? That’s just adorable and makes me smile every time I open the bag. It’s like a hug from nature in every grain! —Ella Thornton
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Why Best Wild Rice is Necessary
From my experience, choosing the best wild rice makes all the difference in both flavor and nutrition. I’ve found that high-quality wild rice has a unique, nutty taste and firm texture that transforms simple meals into something truly special. When I use the best wild rice, my dishes come out more aromatic and satisfying, which keeps me excited about cooking and eating healthy.
Additionally, my health goals are better supported by top-grade wild rice. It’s packed with essential nutrients like fiber, protein, and antioxidants, which I rely on for sustained energy and overall wellness. Using the best wild rice ensures I’m not just filling my plate but nourishing my body with clean, natural ingredients. For me, it’s a small choice that leads to big benefits in taste, health, and enjoyment.
My Buying Guides on Best Wild Rice
When I first started exploring wild rice, I quickly realized that not all wild rice is created equal. Over time, I’ve learned what to look for to get the best quality, flavor, and value. If you’re on the hunt for the best wild rice, here’s my guide to help you make an informed choice.
Understanding What Wild Rice Is
Before buying, I found it helpful to know that wild rice isn’t actually rice but a seed from aquatic grasses. Its nutty flavor and chewy texture make it a unique addition to meals, and it’s packed with nutrients. Knowing this helped me appreciate why it’s often more expensive and requires different cooking methods than regular rice.
Types of Wild Rice I’ve Tried
There are mainly two types:
- Pure Wild Rice: 100% wild rice grains, which have a stronger flavor and longer cooking time.
- Wild Rice Blends: A mix of wild rice with other rice varieties like brown or white rice. These blends cook faster and have a milder taste.
Depending on your taste and time, I recommend choosing accordingly. I personally enjoy pure wild rice for its authentic taste but use blends when I’m short on time.
What to Look For When Buying Wild Rice
From my experience, these factors matter most:
- Quality and Freshness: Look for rice that is dry and free from debris. I prefer brands that package their wild rice in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
- Origin: Wild rice from North America, especially Minnesota and Canada, tends to be higher quality. I’ve found that the region affects flavor and texture.
- Packaging: Vacuum-sealed or resealable bags help keep the rice fresh longer. I avoid loose or poorly packaged rice.
- Organic Certification: If you prefer organic products, check for certification. I’ve noticed organic wild rice often has a cleaner taste.
- Price: Wild rice can be pricey, but I balance cost with quality. Sometimes paying a little more means better flavor and less broken grains.
My Tips on Cooking Wild Rice
Once you’ve picked your wild rice, cooking it properly is key. I always rinse the rice first to remove any dust, then simmer it for about 45-60 minutes until the grains split open but remain chewy. Cooking times can vary, so checking the package instructions helps. Also, I like to soak it for a few hours beforehand to reduce cooking time.
Where I Recommend Buying Wild Rice
I’ve purchased wild rice from several places:
- Specialty Grocery Stores: They often carry high-quality, bulk wild rice.
- Online Retailers: Convenient and sometimes better priced. I look for reputable brands with good reviews.
- Farmers Markets: Great for fresh, locally harvested wild rice if you live near wild rice-growing regions.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best wild rice comes down to your preferences for flavor, cooking time, and budget. I hope my personal experiences help you pick wild rice that elevates your meals. Remember, a little patience in selecting and cooking wild rice pays off with delicious, nutritious results!
Author Profile
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Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.
In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.
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