Wild Rice, Fruit, and Pecan Stuffing

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped celery and onion; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and almost translucent, about 8 minutes. Stir in garlic; cook, stirring often, until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add wild rice; stir for 1 minute. Add broth, bay leaf, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 1/2 cups water; increase heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes. Uncover, stir, and continue cooking, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender, 20-40 minutes.

   Step 2

   Meanwhile, preheat oven to 325°F. Spread out pecans on a rimmed baking sheet. Toast until fragrant, 5-7 minutes. Let cool; coarsely chop. DO AHEAD: Can be made 1 day ahead. Store nuts airtight at room temperature. Let stuffing cool, then cover and chill. Rewarm over medium heat, adding water by tablespoonfuls if too dry, before continuing.

   Step 3

   Discard bay leaf. Stir in dried cranberries, apricots, and raisins. Let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.

   Step 4

   Season rice to taste with salt and pepper. Fold pecans, sliced cranberries, and sliced celery into mixture. Garnish with celery leaves.