Lebanese Rice
Lebanese Rice is one of those quick, easy, delicious, and healthy dishes that has truly earned a permanent place in our kitchen. Growing up, rice was always a comfort food in my family, but the first time I tasted Lebanese Rice Pilaf with Vermicelli, I knew I had discovered something truly special. It wasn’t just rice—it was nutty, aromatic, and deeply satisfying, with a golden layer of toasted vermicelli that made every bite taste restaurant-style.
The first time my husband and I had it was at a friend’s family gathering, and I still remember how everyone crowded around the pot, eagerly scooping it onto their plates. That moment stayed with us, and ever since then, Lebanese Rice has become a staple on our own table. Whether it’s for holidays, potlucks, or just a cozy weeknight meal, this dish delivers big flavor with simple ingredients, making it a perfect go-to when we want something comforting, nourishing, and a little extra special.
Table of Contents
- About Lebanese Rice
- Why You’ll Love Lebanese Rice
- Key Ingredients
- How To Make Lebanese Rice
- Have It Your Way!
- Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Health Benefits
- Other Recipes You’ll Love
About Lebanese Rice
This Lebanese Rice Pilaf with Vermicelli is a traditional Middle Eastern side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, stews, or even enjoyed on its own. The magic comes from toasting the vermicelli until golden brown, then simmering it with fragrant long-grain rice and broth. Topped with crunchy toasted nuts and fresh parsley, it’s comforting yet elegant. The best part? It requires just a handful of pantry staples and comes together in less than 30 minutes.
Why You’ll Love Lebanese Rice
- Simple & Elegant – With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that feels restaurant-worthy.
- Versatile – Works perfectly as a side dish for Middle Eastern spreads or as a base for hearty meals.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
- Nutty & Flavorful – Toasted vermicelli and nuts bring irresistible depth and crunch.
- Vegetarian-Friendly – Made with vegetable broth, but easily adaptable for other preferences.
Key Ingredients
- Cooking Oil – Helps toast the vermicelli to a golden brown while enhancing flavor.
- Long Grain Rice (Jasmine or Basmati) – The fluffy base of the dish; absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Dried Rice Vermicelli – Brings a nutty, toasted flavor and unique texture to the pilaf.
- Vegetable Broth – Infuses the rice with savory depth instead of just using water.
- Salt – Essential for seasoning and balance.
- Pine Nuts – Add buttery crunch and richness as a garnish.
- Fresh Parsley – Brings a fresh, herbal brightness to the final dish.
- Almonds – Offer extra crunch and nutty flavor, complementing the rice perfectly.
How To Make Lebanese Rice
- In a large pan over medium low heat, add pine nuts and toast them until lightly golden. Stir continously to prevent burning. Remove and set them aside to cool for garnish later.
- Add the cooking oil to pan over medium-low heat and add vermicelli noodles. Stir and toast them until golden.
- Add the long grain rice to the pan. Stir and toast until the rice is milky white.
- Add vegetable broth to the rice, and increase the heat to medium-high. Bring the mixture to a gently boil.
- Lower the heat to low, cover the pan with the lid, and cook for 8-10 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked through.
- Remove the lid, and fluff the rice with a fork to release excess trapped steam.
- Garnish with the toasted pine nuts, freshly chopped parsley, and slivered almonds.
- Serve with your favorite mediterranean dish, or enjoy on its own!
Have It Your Way!
- Nut-Free – Skip the pine nuts and almonds, or replace them with roasted chickpeas for crunch.
- Extra Flavor Boost – Add a cinnamon stick or bay leaf while cooking the rice for subtle warmth.
- Protein-Packed – Serve it with chickpeas, grilled halloumi, or roasted tofu for a complete meal.
- Low-Sodium – Use homemade vegetable broth and reduce salt to suit your taste.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
(Approximate values)
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 480mgfo
Health Benefits
This rice pilaf isn’t just delicious—it’s nourishing too. Rice and vermicelli provide lasting energy, while nuts add healthy fats, plant-based protein, and antioxidants. Fresh parsley brings vitamin C and a refreshing brightness. When paired with vegetables or legumes, this dish easily becomes a balanced meal rich in flavor and nutrients.
Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Thai Basil Fried Rice
- Creamy Mushroom Risotto
- Jeera Rice (Cumin Rice)
- Baked Lemon Dill Rice
- Garlic Turmeric Rice
Lebanese Rice
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp Cooking Oil
- 1 Cup Long Grain Rice Jasmin or Basmati
- ½ Cup Dried Rice Vermicelli
- 2 Cups Vegetable Broth or Water
- 1 Tsp Salt less if broth is salted or to taste
- 2 Tbsp Pine Nuts toasted
- ¼ Cup Fresh parsley chopped
- 2 Tbsp Almonds slivered or chopped
Equipment
Instructions
- In a large pan over medium low heat, add pine nuts and toast them until lightly golden. Stir continously to prevent burning. Remove and set them aside to cool for garnish later.
- Add the cooking oil to pan over medium-low heat and add vermicelli noodles. Stir and toast them until golden.
- Add the long grain rice to the pan. Stir and toast until the rice is milky white.
- Add vegetable broth to the rice, and increase the heat to medium-high. Bring the mixture to a gently boil.
- Lower the heat to low, cover the pan with the lid, and cook for 8-10 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked through.
- Remove the lid, and fluff the rice with a fork to release excess trapped steam.
- Garnish with the toasted pine nuts, freshly chopped parsley, and slivered almonds.
- Serve with your favorite Mediterranean dish, or enjoy on its own!
Notes
- Always rinse your rice until the water runs clear to prevent stickiness.
- Toast the vermicelli carefully—once it starts browning, it can burn quickly.
- For the garnish, lightly toast nuts in a dry pan or with a touch of oil for maximum crunch and flavor.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated, making it perfect for entertaining.
Video
Nutrition
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