Two types of wild rice are available today: foraged wild rice harvested from the rivers and lakes of the Great Lakes region, and hybrid wild rice, which is farmed in California, Idaho, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario. Foraged wild rice has its bran layer partially removed.

Wild rice is available in three grades: (1) “Select,” which contains short broken grains; (2) “Extra-fancy,” which has uniform, half-inch-long (1.3cm) grains and is the variety most commonly available; and (3) “Giant,” the most expensive, with grains that are uniformly one inch (2.5cm) in length. All grades can be used interchangeably.

Each brand of wild rice has its own particular flavor, so if you have tried some very strong or bitter types, experiment with different brands to find the variety that best suits your taste.