Lebanese Vermicelli Rice
The fluffiest Lebanese rice you’ll ever make.
Golden toasted vermicelli, buttery aroma, every grain separate, this is the side dish that makes any meal taste like home.
If you’ve never tried Lebanese rice before, SAVE this one. It’s the easiest recipe you’ll add to your rotation. 🤍🍚✨
Serves: 4
Time: 20 minutes
Style: Aromatic, cozy, beautifully balanced
Ingredients
• 1 cup long-grain rice (basmati preferred), rinsed
• ½ cup vermicelli noodles, broken into small pieces
• 2 tbsp ghee or butter
• 1 ¾ cups hot water or broth
• ½–1 tsp salt (to taste)
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 whole cloves
• Optional: 1–2 tsp olive oil for extra shine
Instructions
1. Rinse the rice until the water runs mostly clear. Soak for 10 minutes if you want extra fluff.
2. Melt ghee/butter in a braiser over medium heat.
3. Add the vermicelli and toast until deep golden brown — keep stirring, it goes fast.
4. Add the rice, stir to coat the grains.
5. Pour in hot water/broth, add salt, then drop in the cinnamon stick + cloves.
6. Bring to a low boil, then reduce to the lowest simmer, cover, and cook for 12 minutes.
7. Turn off heat and rest covered for 10 minutes.
8. Remove spices, fluff with a fork, and finish with a tiny drizzle of olive oil for gloss.
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If you're new to Lebanese cooking or hesitant about rice dishes, this vermicelli rice recipe is a fantastic introduction. What makes it special is the toasting of vermicelli noodles until caramel-gold, which adds a rich, nutty flavor and a delightful aroma to the dish. I love how every grain remains separate and fluffy, making it an ideal side for grilled meats, stews, or even vegetarian meals. A tip I found useful is soaking the long-grain basmati rice for about 10 minutes before cooking; it really helps achieve that light, fluffy texture. Also, using broth instead of water can boost the depth of flavor even more. Adding whole spices like cinnamon sticks and cloves infuses a warm, subtle aroma that makes this rice uniquely comforting. For extra glossy finish and a touch of richness, drizzle a little olive oil after fluffing with a fork. This simple addition not only enhances the look but rounds out the buttery taste beautifully. I often prepare this rice in less than 20 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The recipe is forgiving if you keep the simmer low and cover the pot tightly during cooking. Plus, the aromatic fragrance fills the kitchen and invites everyone to the table — it’s truly unbeatable as a homey, flavorful side dish.
