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Lebanese Rice With Vermicelli

Section: Perfect Side Dishes to Complete Any Meal

This Lebanese rice with vermicelli is a staple side dish across Middle Eastern kitchens. Made with just a few ingredients like long-grain rice, toasted vermicelli noodles, and warm spices, it delivers comforting flavor and fluffy texture every time. Toasting the pasta in olive oil builds depth while vegetable broth adds savory notes. Finished with a garnish of crushed pistachios and pomegranate seeds, this dish is elegant enough for guests yet simple enough for everyday meals. Perfect with roasted vegetables, creamy eggplant or moussaka, and excellent for prepping ahead.

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Published By Ioana
Updated on Mon, 07 Jul 2025 14:10:14 GMT
A bowl of rice with pine nuts and raisins. Bookmark
A bowl of rice with pine nuts and raisins. | ioanacooks.com

This Lebanese Rice with Vermicelli noodles delivers fantastic flavors with minimal ingredients. Garnished with pistachios and pomegranate, it makes for an excellent and beautiful rice dish.

Ingredients

  • Long grain rice: cooks up fluffy and non-sticky for perfect texture
  • Vermicelli noodles: add a distinctive toasted nutty flavor and delicate texture
  • Vegetable stock: infuses the rice with rich, savory depth
  • Cinnamon: brings a subtle warm spice that elevates the dish
  • Pistachios: provide crunchy texture and vibrant color
  • Pomegranate seeds: add a fresh burst of sweetness and visual appeal
  • Olive oil: is used for a light, flavorful base
  • Salt: balances and enhances all the flavors

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sift and Rinse the Rice:
Rinse the long grain rice under cold water until it runs clear to remove starch and prevent clumping. Let it drain and dry briefly before cooking.
Toast the Vermicelli:
Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add vermicelli noodles and stir constantly until golden brown. This step creates the signature nutty flavor so stay close and stir continuously to avoid burning.
Combine Rice and Vermicelli:
Add the rinsed rice to the pan with the toasted vermicelli and stir well to coat the grains evenly with oil.
Add Liquids and Seasoning:
Pour in vegetable stock, sprinkle cinnamon and salt. Stir to mix and bring the mixture to a boil.
Simmer the Rice:
Reduce heat to low and cover the pan. Let the rice cook gently for about 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Fluff and Garnish:
Remove the lid and let the rice cool for a few minutes. Fluff with a fork to separate the grains and top with crushed pistachios and pomegranate seeds for texture and color.
A dish of rice with vermicelli noodles and pine nuts. Bookmark
A dish of rice with vermicelli noodles and pine nuts. | ioanacooks.com

I love how the pistachios and pomegranate bring brightness and crunch in every bite, making it feel special

Storage Tips

Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours

Ingredient Substitutions

Butter or vegan butter can replace olive oil for a richer taste

Serving Suggestions

This rice is excellent alongside roasted vegetables, vegetable tagine, or fresh salads

A close up of rice with vermicelli noodles. Bookmark
A close up of rice with vermicelli noodles. | ioanacooks.com

Cultural Context

Lebanese Rice or Riz bi Sh’arieh is a beloved staple in Middle Eastern cuisine

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute regular vermicelli with rice vermicelli or gluten-free noodles. Break them into small pieces before toasting for best results.

→ What kind of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice is preferred for its fluffy texture and ability to absorb flavors. Basmati or Arabic long-grain rice are ideal options.

→ Can I use butter instead of olive oil?

Absolutely. Traditional versions often use butter for a richer flavor. Vegan butter is also a great plant-based alternative.

→ What garnishes go well with this rice?

Classic options include crushed pistachios and pomegranate seeds. You can also use toasted almonds, pine nuts, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

→ How should I reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently in a pan or microwave with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture and prevent drying out.

→ Is cinnamon essential in this dish?

Cinnamon adds a subtle warmth and depth, but it can be omitted or adjusted to taste depending on your flavor preferences.

Lebanese Rice With Vermicelli

Toasted vermicelli and long-grain rice come together in this fragrant Middle Eastern classic

Time Needed to Prep
10 minutes
Cooking Duration
20 minutes
Overall Time
30 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Side Dishes

Preparation Difficulty: Easy to Make

Type of Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Number of Portions: 6 How Many It Serves (1 large serving dish)

Dietary Preferences: Vegan Safe, Made for Vegetarians, Dairy-Free Suitable

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Main Ingredients

Ingredient 01 2 cups long-grain white rice
Ingredient 02 0.75 cup vermicelli noodles or angel hair pasta broken into small pieces
Ingredient 03 4 cups vegetable stock
Ingredient 04 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Ingredient 05 0.5 cup shelled pistachios crushed
Ingredient 06 0.5 cup pomegranate seeds
Ingredient 07 Salt to taste
Ingredient 08 2 tablespoons olive oil

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Allow to drain and dry slightly before cooking.

Step 02

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add vermicelli noodles and stir constantly with a wooden spoon until golden brown.

Step 03

Stir the rinsed rice into the pan with toasted vermicelli to coat it evenly with the oil.

Step 04

Add vegetable stock, cinnamon, and salt to the pan. Stir to combine. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 05

Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is fully cooked.

Step 06

Remove the pan from heat and let sit uncovered for a few minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and top with crushed pistachios and pomegranate seeds before serving.

Extra Tips

  1. Toasting the vermicelli adds a nutty flavor and prevents sogginess. Always monitor closely as it browns quickly.
  2. Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, resulting in fluffier grains that do not clump together.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large saucepan
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains tree nuts from pistachios
  • May contain gluten from vermicelli noodles

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 320
  • Total Fat: 9 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 52 grams
  • Protein Amount: 6 grams