Lebanese-style Rice Pilaf: A Perfect Side Dish

vermicelli noodles

🥗Healthier: whole grain pasta

💰Cheaper: spaghetti

Whole grain pasta adds fiber and nutrients while being a budget-friendly option.

pine nuts

🥗Healthier: sunflower seeds

💰Cheaper: walnuts

Sunflower seeds provide a similar crunch at a lower cost.

chicken broth

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water with seasonings

Vegetable broth is a great option for a lighter flavor.

Welcome to the kitchen and introduction to the dish.

State that this is a Lebanese-style rice recipe that is loved and made frequently.

Mention the main ingredient is rice, specifically traditional long grain Basmati rice, but any rice can be used.

Introduce vermicelli noodles as another key ingredient, suggesting alternatives like angel hair pasta broken into pieces.

State the need for good quality butter and olive oil, specifying 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.

Melt the butter and olive oil together in a pot.

Add the vermicelli noodles and fry until they are slightly brown and fragrant.

Add the rinsed rice to the pot and mix to coat it in the butter and oil.

Pour in 4 cups of water and add salt to taste.

Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.

Suggest letting the rice sit for 4-5 minutes to expand, but mention being too hungry to wait.

Add fresh herbs, specifically cilantro, at the end for flavor.

Taste the rice to confirm it is fluffy and fragrant.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens