Quirky Foodster
  1. Back

Sides

Roz Bel Sha’ria

The Quirky Foodster Team

(0)
5 min
Prep
25 min
Cook

Ingredients

  • 300 g (1.5 cups) White rice
  • 50 g (1/2 cup) Vermicelli noodles, broken into short pieces
  • 2 tbsp Butter or ghee
  • 600 ml (2.5 cups) Chicken or vegetable stock
  • 1/2 tsp Salt

Method

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain well.
  2. Melt the butter in a saucepan and toast the broken vermicelli over medium heat, stirring constantly, until
  3. golden brown.
  4. Add the drained rice and stir to coat in the butter for 1 minute.
  5. Pour in the stock and salt, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover tightly.
  6. Simmer for 18 minutes without lifting the lid, then remove from heat and rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
  7. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Introduction: This simple vermicelli rice is the everyday side dish found on nearly every Egyptian dinner table, its toasted noodle strands adding a nutty crunch to plain steamed rice.

Cultural Background: This simple vermicelli rice is the everyday side dish found on nearly every Egyptian dinner table, its toasted noodle strands adding a nutty crunch to plain steamed rice.

Tips: – Watch the vermicelli closely while toasting — it can burn quickly once it starts browning. Resting the rice off the heat for a few minutes improves the texture.

Variations: – Some households add a pinch of ground cardamom to the stock for extra fragrance. Toasted vermicelli can be swapped for toasted almond slivers for a different side. Use vegetable stock and plant-based butter for a vegan version.

Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a covered pan over low heat with a splash of water, or in the microwave.

Nutrition: Calories: 260 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Carbs: 46 g | Fat: 7 g | Fiber: 1 g

FAQs:

Q: Why toast the vermicelli first?

A: Toasting develops a nutty flavour and golden colour that plain rice alone wouldn't have.

Q: Can I use brown rice?

A: Yes, though cooking time and liquid amount will need to increase accordingly.