Can I use a different type of rice?

Basmati is preferred for its fluffy texture, but you can use other long-grain rice types or parboiled rice. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta instead of vermicelli. Try to get the thinnest you can find and then break into pieces.

Arabic Rice With Vermicelli

Name: Arabic Rice With Vermicelli
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed and drained; 1/2 cup vermicelli noodles, broken into small pieces.; 2-3 tablespoons vegan butter - substitute with olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups water or vegetable broth; optional - pinch of cinnamon or allspice for added flavor; toasted almonds or pinenuts for topping the rice; cilantro, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice as a garnish

Description

With just 5 ingredients, this Arabic rice recipe with vermicelli comes together fast. It is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, offering a comforting and buttery side that complements a wide range of dishes.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 cup basmati rice, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup vermicelli noodles, broken into small pieces.
2-3 tablespoons vegan butter - substitute with olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups water or vegetable broth
optional - pinch of cinnamon or allspice for added flavor
toasted almonds or pinenuts for topping the rice
cilantro, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice as a garnish

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Instructions

Prep the Rice: Rinse the Basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps the rice cook up fluffy.
Brown the Vermicelli: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the broken vermicelli noodles and sauté them, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown. Be careful not to burn them.
Cook the Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan with the vermicelli. Stir it around to coat the rice grains with the butter.
Add Water and Season: Pour in the water or vegetable broth. Add the salt and optional cinnamon or allspice. Stir everything together.
Simmer the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.
Let it Cook: Let the rice simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Rest and Fluff: Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for about 5 minutes. Then, fluff it gently with a fork.
Serve: Top with some toasted almonds or pinenuts, parsley or cilantro, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Notes

Vermicelli noodles, also known as 'fideos' in some regions, are thin, short, dried noodles resembling thinner spaghetti and often come pre-chopped. You can find them in grocery stores' international, Hispanic, or Asian aisles labeled as 'vermicelli' or 'rice sticks'. If unavailable pre-chopped, simply break regular vermicelli to your desired size.

If you're using rice other than Basmati, check your packaging to determine the time the rice needs.

The rice is best served fresh. While you can still eat it, it loses its fluffy, light texture after a day.

Nutritional information is only an estimate.

Prep Time: 5 Minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: side dish
Method: stove top
Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 cup
Calories: 312
Sugar: 1.1 g
Sodium: 751.9 mg
Fat: 4.6 g
Carbohydrates: 60.6 g
Protein: 4.6 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg