Lebanese Rice with Vermicelli

Lebanese Rice with Vermicelli is a fragrant and flavorful dish that combines fluffy rice with crispy, toasted vermicelli noodles. This vegetarian delight is perfect as a side or main dish, offering a taste of Lebanese cuisine in every bite.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 1 cup (200g)
• Vermicelli noodles - 1/4 cup (30g)
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion, finely chopped - 1 medium (100g)
• Garlic, minced - 2 cloves
• Vegetable broth or water - 2 cups (480ml)
• Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon
• Cinnamon powder - 1/4 teaspoon
• Pine nuts, toasted - 2 tablespoons
• Fresh parsley, chopped - 2 tablespoons (for garnish)

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, then soak it in water for 15 minutes.
2. In a medium-sized pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in the vermicelli noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown.
5. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pot, stirring to combine with the onions and vermicelli.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth (or water), add salt, black pepper, and cinnamon. Bring to a boil over high heat.
7. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
8. Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
9. Fluff the rice with a fork and mix in the toasted pine nuts.
10. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 8 g
• Carbs: 60 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Water: 0.48 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in fiber, promoting digestive health.
• Contains healthy fats from olive oil and pine nuts, beneficial for heart health.

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