The term "wild rice" refers to a type of aquatic grass that grows in shallow water areas such as marshes, lakes and rivers. It is not actually rice but an indigenous North American grain crop that has been cultivated by Native Americans for thousands of years. Wild rice is high in protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals making it a nutritious food source. The grains are harvested by hand and the process can be labor-intensive. It's also known as Canada wild rice or water oats.