Lebanese Rice with Vermicelli

Lebanese Rice with Vermicelli recipe videos

Lebanese Rice with Vermicelli, also known as 'Riz bi Shi'rieh', is a classic Middle Eastern side dish where long-grain rice and toasted vermicelli noodles are cooked together in broth or water. The key ingredients are rice, fine vermicelli pasta, oil or butter, and often a pinch of salt and allspice, creating a fragrant, fluffy pilaf. It's a staple in Lebanese and broader Levantine cuisine, commonly served alongside grilled meats, stews, or as part of a mezze spread.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is primarily a source of carbohydrates from the rice and pasta, providing quick energy, with a small amount of fat from the cooking oil or butter. A typical serving (about 1 cup) contains roughly 200-250 calories, and it offers minimal protein but can be a good vehicle for absorbing flavors and nutrients from accompanying dishes.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	210 kcal
Protein	4.5 g
Carbs	38 g
Fat	4.5 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	1 g
Sodium	300 mg
Iron	2.5 mg
Thiamin (B1)	0.3 mg
Niacin (B3)	3.0 mg
Folate	60 mcg
Magnesium	25 mg
Phosphorus	80 mg
Selenium	12 mcg
Manganese	0.6 mg

Per 1 cup (185 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

The unique technique of toasting the vermicelli in oil before adding the rice gives the dish its signature nutty aroma and distinctive golden-brown speckles, a method that also helps prevent the noodles from becoming mushy. Nutritionally, combining two grain sources creates a more complex texture and a subtle flavor depth that elevates simple steamed rice into a beloved culinary tradition.