Authentic Lebanese Rice Recipe for Flavor Lovers

In the heart of every Mediterranean meal lies a fragrant dish that captures the essence of family gatherings—Lebanese rice. Imagine fluffy grains dancing with spices while the aroma fills your kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly day. This isn’t just rice; it’s an experience that transports you to bustling markets and sun-soaked afternoons in Lebanon.

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Growing up in a household where every meal was an event, Lebanese rice became my go-to comfort food. Each bite is a reminder of joyful family dinners filled with laughter and stories. Whether it’s a special occasion or just another Tuesday night, this dish never fails to impress!

Sharing this dish brought my family closer; we always ended up laughing over who could make it fluffier!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Basmati Rice: Opt for high-quality basmati for its distinct aroma and fluffy texture when cooked.
• Vermicelli Noodles: Look for thin noodles; they add a delightful crunch and flavor to the rice.
• Onion: A finely chopped onion enhances the overall taste with its sweet and savory notes.
• Vegetable Broth: Use homemade or low-sodium broth to infuse rich flavors without overwhelming saltiness.
• Spices (Cinnamon, Allspice): A dash of these spices gives the rice a warm, aromatic profile that’s simply irresistible.
• Salt and Pepper: Adjust seasoning according to your preference; don’t be shy!
• Olive Oil or Butter: Choose your favorite fat; both add richness and depth to the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together!

Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients beforehand for a smooth cooking process. Rinse basmati rice under cold water until it runs clear to remove excess starch.

Sauté Vermicelli Noodles: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and let it shimmer. Toss in vermicelli noodles and sauté until golden brown; they should smell nutty and delicious.

Add Onions and Spices: Stir in chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent and fragrant. Sprinkle cinnamon and allspice into the mix for aromatic goodness.

Incorporate Rice into Mixture: Add rinsed basmati rice into the pot and stir well—let it toast slightly for about 2 minutes while absorbing those lovely flavors.

Add Broth & Cooking Time: Pour vegetable broth into the pot along with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low; cover tightly and simmer for 15-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed.

Fluff & Serve!: Once cooked, let it sit for 5 minutes off heat before fluffing with a fork—this step makes it light and airy! Serve hot alongside your favorite protein or vegetables.

Now that you’ve created this beautiful plate of Lebanese rice, prepare yourself for compliments at dinner! Enjoy each bite filled with love as you share this culinary journey with friends or family.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions in olive oil until golden, then add rice and spices before adding broth for optimal flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap basmati rice with jasmine or add toasted nuts and dried fruits for an extra punch of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Lebanese rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water.

Cooking Lebanese rice takes me back to my childhood kitchen, where I learned from my grandmother. Her laughter blended with the aroma of spices always made me feel at home.

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but adjust cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

What spices are essential for authentic Lebanese rice?

Cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg create that signature flavor profile you crave.

How can I make this dish vegan-friendly?

Simply substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth, keeping it deliciously plant-based.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Authentic Lebanese Rice

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• Author: tastyfoodonly
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Lebanese rice is a fragrant and flavorful side dish featuring fluffy basmati rice mixed with crispy vermicelli, perfect for complementing grilled meats or vegetables.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1/4 cup vermicelli noodles
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon allspice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

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Instructions

1. Rinse basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the vermicelli noodles and sauté until golden brown.
3. Stir in the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent. Add cinnamon and allspice, mixing well.
4. Incorporate the rinsed rice into the pot, toasting for about 2 minutes to absorb flavors.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth, season with salt and pepper, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
6. Let it sit off heat for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Serve hot.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Lebanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 6g
• Cholesterol: 0mg