Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups Basmati Rice
- 2 tablespoon Butter
- ½ cup Vermicelli noodles (or break spaghetti or spaghettini into 1" (2cm) pieces)
- 1 Cinnamon stick
- 2 ¼ cups water (or low sodium broth)
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
Optional Garnish
- Toasted nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse. Rinse the rice with cold water until the water runs clear by washing it 3-4 times, discarding the water each time. Then soak the rice in a bowl of water for 15 minutes while you prepare the rest of the recipe.
- Fry. In a small pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the vermicelli noodles and the cinnamon stick. Toast the noodles for 2-4 minutes, tossing regularly until they turn golden brown and release their aroma. Be careful not to burn the noodles, as this will ruin the flavor.
- Boil. Drain the soaked rice using a sieve and add it to the pot with the toasted vermicelli and butter. Stir to coat the rice evenly with the butter and distribute the noodles. Pour in the water and kosher salt. Bring the mixture to a rapid boil, stirring once to release any stuck bits. Reduce the heat to the lowest simmer, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and steam for 20 minutes.
- Fluff and serve. After 20 minutes, turn off the heat and let the pot sit covered for an additional 15 minutes to finish steaming. Fluff the rice gently with a fork and serve. Garnish with toasted nuts if desired.
Notes
- Refer to the original blog post for step-by-step photos to assist with the process.
- To toast nuts for garnish, heat a small frying pan with a little olive oil or butter over medium-low heat and toast the nuts carefully to avoid burning.
- Rice: Basmati rice is recommended for its aroma and texture. You may substitute with other long-grain rices or brown rice (adjust water accordingly).
- Vermicelli: Easily found in Middle Eastern, Greek, or Italian grocery stores. If unavailable, break spaghetti or spaghettini into small 1-inch pieces.
- Butter: Butter adds richness, but olive oil can be used for a dairy-free or vegan option.
- Cinnamon stick: If unavailable, use 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon powder as a substitute.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegetarian
