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

 * 1) 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.
 * 2) 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.