Lebanese Rice with Pine Nuts & Vermicelli

This Lebanese Rice with Pine Nuts and Vermicelli is a staple dish in Middle Eastern cuisine, known for its fragrant, nutty flavor and fluffy texture. Perfect as a side dish for meats, stews, or simply on its own, it's a delightful addition to any meal.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups long grain or medium grain rice

- Water

- 1 cup broken vermicelli pasta

- 2 ½ tbsp olive oil

- Salt

- ½ cup toasted pine nuts (optional but recommended for extra flavor)

Instructions:

1. Rinse and Soak the Rice:

Rinse the rice under cold water several times until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, ensuring the rice will be fluffy.
Soak the rice in a bowl of water for 15-20 minutes. Test readiness by pressing a grain between your fingers; it should break easily. Drain the rice well.

2. Toast the Vermicelli:

In a medium non-stick pot, heat 2 ½ tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the broken vermicelli pasta and stir continuously. Toast the vermicelli until it reaches a golden brown color, but be vigilant to prevent burning. If the vermicelli burns, you'll need to start over.

3. Combine Rice and Vermicelli:

Add the drained rice to the pot with the toasted vermicelli. Stir thoroughly to coat the rice with the olive oil and evenly mix with the vermicelli.
Season with salt to taste.

4. Cook the Rice:

Add 3 ½ cups of water to the pot and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.

5. Rest and Fluff:

Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered and undisturbed, for an additional 10-15 minutes. This resting period helps the rice finish cooking and absorb any remaining moisture.
After resting, uncover the pot and fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.

6. Serve:

Transfer the rice to a serving platter.
Top with toasted pine nuts for added crunch and flavor. This step is optional but highly recommended for an authentic touch.

Pro Tips:

1. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the rice well to remove excess starch and ensure a light, fluffy texture.

2. Perfect Toasting: Toast the vermicelli carefully, stirring constantly to achieve an even golden brown without burning.

3. Let it Rest: Allowing the rice to rest before serving helps achieve the perfect texture, with separate, fluffy grains.

Enjoy this Lebanese Rice with Pine Nuts and Vermicelli as a delicious and versatile side dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table!

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