Light, fluffy basmati rice cooked with golden vermicelli and finished with a sprinkle of toasted almonds, pine nuts, and fresh parsley—this classic Middle Eastern rice dish is aromatic, buttery, and full of comforting flavor. It’s an essential side that elevates any festive or everyday meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a timeless staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, valued for its simplicity and versatility. The lightly toasted vermicelli adds a warm, nutty depth to the rice, while the buttery nuts provide satisfying crunch. Whether served alongside grilled meats, stews, or vegetable mains, this rice dish complements a wide range of flavors. It’s easy to prepare, impressive in presentation, and ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1/2 cup vermicelli noodles, broken into short pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil or ghee
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 cups water or broth

For topping:

• 2 tbsp slivered almonds
• 2 tbsp pine nuts
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp olive oil

Directions

1. Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Soak for 15 minutes, then drain thoroughly.
2. In a medium pot, heat the olive oil or ghee over medium heat.
3. Add the broken vermicelli and sauté, stirring constantly, until deeply golden brown (about 3–4 minutes). Watch closely to prevent burning.
4. Stir in the drained rice, salt, and cinnamon if using. Mix to coat the rice evenly with oil and toasted vermicelli.
5. Add the water or broth. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover tightly with a lid and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all liquid is absorbed.
6. While the rice cooks, toast the almonds and pine nuts in a small pan with 1 tsp olive oil over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Set aside.
7. Once the rice is done, remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork.
8. Transfer the rice to a serving platter. Garnish with toasted nuts and chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people as a side dish.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• All-Butter Version: Use all ghee or unsalted butter for a richer, more traditional flavor.
• Nut-Free Option: Omit the nuts or replace with toasted sunflower seeds for an allergy-friendly version.
• Spiced Variation: Add a pinch of ground cardamom or allspice for extra warmth.
• Garlic Twist: Sauté a clove of minced garlic with the vermicelli for a fragrant addition.
• Herb Boost: Add fresh dill or mint alongside the parsley for added freshness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

What is vermicelli rice?

It’s a classic Middle Eastern preparation of rice where toasted vermicelli noodles are cooked with basmati rice, giving the dish extra flavor and texture.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Long-grain rice such as jasmine can be used, but basmati is preferred for its fragrance and texture.

Is it necessary to soak the rice?

Soaking helps the rice cook more evenly and prevents it from sticking. It’s recommended but not strictly required.

What type of vermicelli should I use?

Use thin, short-cut vermicelli pasta, often labeled as “vermicelli noodles” or “angel hair broken.”

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, it can be prepared ahead and gently reheated before serving. Add a little water or broth to maintain moisture.

Is this dish vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, it is vegetarian by default. Use oil instead of ghee to make it fully vegan.

What can I serve this rice with?

It pairs well with stews, kebabs, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or even as a base for curries.

Can I use broth instead of water?

Yes, using vegetable or chicken broth enhances the flavor significantly.

How do I keep the nuts crispy?

Add the toasted nuts just before serving to maintain their crunch.

What can I use instead of pine nuts?

Chopped walnuts, pistachios, or cashews are excellent alternatives.

Conclusion

Middle Eastern Rice with Vermicelli and Toasted Nuts is a beloved side dish that combines simplicity with elegance. With its buttery texture, aromatic spices, and crunchy garnishes, it adds warmth and depth to any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or as part of a festive spread, this rice will quickly become a go-to favorite for its flavor and versatility.

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