Congrats! You have just found the best Middle Eastern Vermicelli Rice (Ruz Bil Shi’iriya) recipe online. This recipe is one of my favorites due to its simplicity, taste, and texture. Vermicelli rice is a staple Middle Eastern dish, paired with almost everything.
To make this, start with rice as the base, a bit of oil and butter or ghee, some vermicelli, and a pinch of salt. Easy, effortless, and simply delicious!
The combination of jasmine rice and vermicelli is bound to prove that it is the perfect companion for any main dish. So get your pot ready because you are about to make the best Middle Eastern Vermicelli Rice!
Have a Rice Day😎
What Is Vermicelli?
Vermicelli is similar to fine noodles. Its diameter is even thinner than spaghetti, allowing it to combine smoothly with rice. With its beautiful golden color, your plate will be sparkling.
When you add the toasted, shiny noodles to your rice, the entire recipe transforms from a bowl of simple white rice to a magnificent staple in Middle Eastern cuisine that goes along with almost everything, especially stews.
Why Is This Recipe So Good?
Even though vermicelli rice is a traditional Middle Eastern recipe, it’s still a perfect fit for any of your main dishes regardless of their backgrounds.
This recipe is cooked within 15-20 minutes, leaving you with plenty of time to wrap up any other pending things you have around the kitchen.
Nothing beats the Vermicelli Rice’s flavor and fluffiness. Even the most demanding eaters will be delighted with it.
Each one of the ingredients is found in your pantry or your nearest grocery store and is very affordable. No complications!
Add a final luxurious touch to your vermicelli rice by placing a slice of butter on top once it is cooked. Then, allow it to steam for a few minutes before serving. It adds a rich, buttery flavor and keeps the rice moist and fluffy.
From a Vermicelli Rice Foe to a Big Fan
Picture me in my kitchen, fighting with pots and pans, trying to get vermicelli rice just right. Oh, the struggle! Too much water, not enough water, what a mess! Then, it clicked.
Now? Well, it’s a breeze. I make vermicelli rice so tasty that I could eat it plain! If you are in the same boat, don’t give up. Follow the instructions and you will end up loving it as much as I do!
Perfect Fuel!
Ingredients
Jasmine rice: the main ingredient.
Hot water: used to cook the best side dish.
Ghee or butter: for a smooth texture.
Oil: used to mix with butter/ghee and enrich the taste.
Salt: to taste.
Vermicelli: the star of the show, it makes the rice even better.
Step By Step Prep
First, wash the rice a few times until the water runs clear then soak it for 20 minutes in lukewarm water.
Second, add butter/ghee and oil to a pot and let them melt.
Then, add the cut-up vermicelli, and toast on medium-high heat until golden brown, but not burnt.
After that, drain the rice and add it to the vermicelli, then add the salt and hot water.
Mix well, and let it come to a boil for 5 minutes on high heat before lowering it to low and covering.
Finally, let it cook for 15-20 minutes until done. Fluff with a fork and enjoy!
Variations of Vermicelli Rice
Vermicelli rice is a classic dish that it undeniably delicious on its own with a delicate texture and subtle flavor. However, there are some ways to explore its versatility.
You can sautee vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, peas, or corn and mix them with the rice. This adds color, flavor, and nutrients to your dish.
For a different experience, you can add a pinch of cumin, cinnamon, turmeric, or smoked paprika on top of your dish when ready.
If you like adding protein, incorporate some cooked chicken or shrimp into your vermicelli rice.
Flavor your vermicelli rice with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, or ginger for an Asian-inspired twist. You can also garnish your dish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor and color.
A Delectable Side Dish!
Middle Eastern Vermicelli Rice (Ruz Bil Shi’iriya) Perfect Match
Stews and Middle Eastern Vermicelli Rice are partners in crime! Watch them steal the show in my delectable Mulukhiyah Stew (Jute Mallow Stew).
Green Bean and Lamb Stew is also an amazing recipe to combine with Middle Easter Vermicelli Rice; this duo is unbeatable.
And guess what else is served with Vermicelli Rice? Our all-time favorite, Sheikh Makhshi (Kusa Bi Laban)! These two are a match made in heaven.
Pro Tips to Remember
Wash the rice a few times until the water runs clear. This will remove the starch from the rice resulting in fluffy rice.
Soak the rice for 20 minutes in lukewarm water to reduce the cooking time.
Use the indicated amount of water to obtain the perfect rice and avoid stirring while it is cooking to prevent it from breaking apart.
After you remove the rice from the heat, cover it and let it steam for another 5 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb every last drop of liquid.
For the best results, stick to the timing suggested in the preparation.
Mixing butter or ghee with oil is a wonderful combo. While olive oil enriches the Middle Eastern Vermicelli Rice with its unique taste, butter gives it a creamy, smooth flavor, and an unbeatable aroma.
Storage Tips
Make sure vermicelli rice has cooled down completely before you store it to avoid condensation in the container. Storing warm rice may lead it to become soggy.
Label the container with the cooking date to track how long it has been in the fridge.
Vermicelli rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. It is better to keep it in the coldest part of the fridge.
Upon serving, reheat vermicelli rice in the microwave or a pot on the stove. You need to sprinkle a little water over to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing vermicelli rice is not a good idea. It may change its texture and make it mushy once thawed. Consume it fresh or within a few days of cooking.
Delightfully Good
Frequently Asked Questions
The vermicelli is ready when it turns golden brown.
Of course, Vermicelli Rice is a canvas that will adapt to any menu you have at home.
It can become mushy if it is overcooked or if too much water is used. Follow the recommended cooking instructions mentioned in the recipe card and measure your water accurately.
It is typically gluten-free since it is made with vermicelli and rice. Make sure to check the packaging for any potential contamination if you have gluten sensitivity.
Must Try Recipes:
Middle-Eastern Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Tabbouli Salad Recipe (Tabbouleh)
Mulukhiyah Stew (Jute Mallow Stew)
Palestinian Purslane Stew Recipe
Mujadara Lentils and Spiced Rice
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Middle Eastern Vermicelli Rice (Ruz Bil Shi’iriya)
Ingredients
- 2 cups jasmine rice
- 3 cups hot water
- 1 tablespoon ghee or butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- ⅓-½ cup vermicelli depends on your taste
Instructions
- Wash the rice a few times until the water runs clear, then soak it for 20 minutes in lukewarm water.
- Add butter/ghee and oil to a pot and let them melt.
- Add the cut-up vermicelli and toast on medium-high until golden brown not burnt.
- Drain the rice and add it to the vermicelli, then add the salt and hot water.
- Mix well, and let it come to a boil for 5 minutes on high before lowering it all the way to low and covering.
- Let it cook for 15-20 minutes until done. Fluff with a fork and enjoy!
Notes
- Wash the rice a few times until the water runs clear.
- Soak the rice for 20 minutes in lukewarm water.
- Use the accurate water measure for the recipe.
- After you remove the rice from the heat, cover it and let it steam for another 5 minutes.
- For the best results, stick to the timing suggested in the preparation.
- Add butter/ghee and oil to a pot and let them melt.
Can I use basmati rice instead of jasmine rice?
yes, but the ratio of water changes. Basmati typically takes 1 cup rice to 2 cups water
I use this recipe whenever I make your middle eastern chicken. Everyone loves this rice!