Crazy Quilt Rice

Description
Makes 6 servings.

Ingredients

 * 1 cup uncooked rice
 * 1/3 cup raisins
 * 1/4 teaspoon ground thyme
 * 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
 * 2 cups chicken broth
 * 2 tablespoons butter or margarine, divided
 * 1 cup sliced mushrooms*
 * 1/2 cup chopped carrots
 * 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
 * 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
 * 1/2 teaspoon salt
 * 1 tart red apple, cored and chopped

Directions
Combine rice, thyme, black pepper, raisins, broth, and 1 tablespoon butter in shallow 2-quart casserole. Cover and bake at 350 degrees 25 to 30 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Meanwhile, cook mushrooms, carrots, green pepper, onion and salt in remaining 1 tablespoon butter until tender crisp. Remove rice from oven; add vegetables and apple. Cover and let stand 5 minutes before serving.