Lebanese Rice
User Reviews
5
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Cook Time
15 mins
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Resting Time
15 mins
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Total Time
15 mins
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Servings
8 servings
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Calories
251 kcal
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Course
Side Dish
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Cuisine
Middle Eastern
Lebanese Rice
Description
Lebanese Rice features long grain white rice cooked together with vermicelli noodles that are toasted in olive oil until golden brown, lending a rich, nutty flavor. The combination of gently browned vermicelli and the fluffy rice results in a light, layered texture where the small pasta adds contrast. A dash of cinnamon offers a subtle warmth, enhancing the savory notes without overpowering.
The cooking method involves simmering the rice and vermicelli in water until the grains are tender and the vermicelli has absorbed the toasty flavor and moisture. After cooking, the rice is allowed to steam off heat before being fluffed with a fork, separating the grains and ensuring an airy consistency.
This rice is traditionally served warm, garnished with parsley and optionally with toasted nuts to add a crunchy texture. It pairs well with dishes common in Middle Eastern cuisine or can be enjoyed simply as a comforting side.
Ingredients
- 2 cups long grain white rice
- ½ cup rice vermicelli noodles dried
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- dash cinnamon optional
- parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse the rice with cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well and set aside.
- In a medium non-stick pot, heat the olive oil on medium heat. Add the vermicelli pasta and cook, stirring frequently until all the vermicelli is a deep golden brown color. Be careful not to burn it.
- Transfer the rice over the cooked vermicelli, and stir to combine and coat the rice with the olive oil. Season with salt and a dash of cinnamon, if desired.
- Add 4 cups water and bring the mixture to a boil. The water will reduce in the process. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot and cook for 15 minutes.
- When the rice is fully cooked, remove from the heat and allow the rice to steam for 5 minutes. Then uncover and fluff with a fork.
- Serve warm with fresh parsley, and toasted nuts, if desired.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5-7 days.
- Rice vermicelli can be found in Middle Eastern markets, natural-food stores, or large supermarkets, often near similar ingredients.
- If rice vermicelli is unavailable, substitute with broken pieces of capellini pasta rather than spaghetti for best texture results.
- A typical serving size is about three-quarters cup cooked rice per person, which corresponds to roughly a quarter cup of dry rice.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 251 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 251kcal | 13% |
| Carbohydrates | 48g | 16% |
| Protein | 3g | 6% |
| Fat | 3g | 5% |
| Sodium | 173mg | 7% |
| Potassium | 53mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 15mg | 2% |
| Iron | 0.5mg | 3% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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