Lebanese Rice with Vermicelli Recipe
This Lebanese Rice with Vermicelli is a classic Middle Eastern side dish featuring long-grain basmati rice and golden toasted vermicelli noodles cooked to fluffy perfection. The vermicelli adds a delightful nutty flavor and subtle crunch, elevating simple rice into a delicious and aromatic accompaniment suitable for many meals.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Wash and soak the rice: Properly wash the rice under running water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Soak the rice in cold water for 15 minutes, then drain.
- Toast the vermicelli: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a pot until hot but not smoking. Add vermicelli noodles and stir continuously with a heat-resistant spatula or wooden spoon until they turn golden brown.
- Add rice and season: To the toasted vermicelli, add the drained rice and salt. Pour enough water to cover the rice by approximately ½ inch (about 1 cm).
- Cook the rice: Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat to the lowest setting, cover with a lid, and cook undisturbed for 10 minutes.
- Rest the rice: Remove the pot from heat but keep the lid on. Let it sit for an additional 10 minutes to steam and finish cooking.
- Fluff and serve: Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, soak the rice for longer, up to 30 minutes.
- Use basmati or other long-grain rice varieties for best results.
- The rice-to-water ratio and cooking times may vary slightly based on your stove and pot, so adjust accordingly.
- The recipe can also be prepared in an Instant Pot using the saute and pressure cook functions for convenience and faster cooking.
- To enhance flavor, you may add a small cinnamon stick or bay leaf while cooking, removing before serving.
Keywords: Lebanese rice, vermicelli rice, Middle Eastern side dish, basmati rice, toasted vermicelli, easy rice recipe
Find it online: https://mixitwitjoe.com/lebanese-rice-with-vermicelli-recipe/
