Name: Lebanese Rice with Vermicelli Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup vermicelli noodles; 2 cups long-grain rice (such as basmati); 1 teaspoon table salt; Water to cover the rice by ½ inch

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Introduction

Lebanese Rice with Vermicelli is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with a wide range of meals. The toasty vermicelli adds a nutty depth, while the fluffy basmati rice provides a perfect texture. This recipe offers both stovetop and Instant Pot methods for convenience.

A close-up view of a white plate filled with fluffy white rice mixed with thin, toasted vermicelli noodles. On top, there is a generous layer of golden-brown toasted almonds and small pine nuts scattered around. Finely chopped green herbs are sprinkled over the nuts and rice, adding a fresh touch. A dark wooden spoon rests on the right side, partly covered with the rice and nuts. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup vermicelli noodles
2 cups long-grain rice (basmati recommended)
1 teaspoon table salt
Water to cover the rice by ½ inch

Instructions

Step 1: Rinse the rice under running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Then soak the rice in cold water for 15 minutes before using. Drain well.
Step 2: For stovetop method, heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Once hot but not smoking, add vermicelli noodles and stir continuously with a wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula until golden brown.
Step 3: Add the drained rice and salt to the toasted vermicelli. Pour in enough water to cover the rice by ½ inch (about 1 cm).
Step 4: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to the lowest setting. Cover with a lid and cook for 10 minutes.
Step 5: After 10 minutes, remove from heat but keep the lid on. Let the rice steam undisturbed for another 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Step 6: For Instant Pot method, press the SAUTE button and heat the olive oil. Add vermicelli and sauté, stirring often, until golden brown.
Step 7: Add the rice, salt, and water covering the rice by ½ inch. Secure the lid and set the vent to SEALING.
Step 8: Select PRESSURE COOK or MANUAL mode and set to cook at high pressure for 4 minutes.
Step 9: When cooking ends, allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then release any remaining pressure carefully. Open the lid and fluff the rice with a fork.

Tips & Variations

Use basmati rice for the best texture and aroma, but any long-grain rice will work fine.
Toast the vermicelli carefully, as it can burn quickly; stirring constantly helps achieve an even golden color.
For added flavor, try sautéing a small chopped onion with the vermicelli before adding rice and water.
To make this dish vegan or vegetarian, use olive oil or a plant-based oil of your choice.

Storage

Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to restore moisture. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain texture and flavor.

How to Serve

A large white oval plate is filled with a layer of fluffy white rice mixed with thin, golden toasted noodles evenly spread throughout. On top, there is a mound of light brown toasted almonds and smaller pine nuts, sprinkled with small pieces of bright green fresh herbs. A wooden spoon with a dark brown grain rests inside the plate on the right side. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a gray and white striped cloth partially visible on the left side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other long-grain rice varieties, but basmati is preferred for its fragrance and fluffy texture. Short-grain rice may turn stickier and change the dish’s texture.

What if I don’t have vermicelli noodles?

You can substitute with thin spaghetti broken into small pieces or other thin pasta types. The goal is to toast small noodles until golden to add a nutty flavor and texture contrast.