Middle Eastern–style Rice Pilaf Recipe
This delicious rice dish is easy to make and will soon become a family staple.
Ingredients
- 2½ oz vermicelli or other very thin noodles or 1
- cup of vermicelli noodles crumbled into 2-
- inch-long pieces*
- 4 tbsp neutral oil (sunflower, canola, grape
- seed), separated
- 2 cups long grain rice, preferably basmati
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 large onion, diced
- ¼ cup pine nuts or slivered almonds
- ¼ cup currants
Instructions
- 1
If the vermicelli is not already crumbled, crumble the strands into pieces about 2 inches long. In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tbsp oil and brown the pasta until golden, careful not to burn.
- 2
Add the rice and toast for a few minutes. Then add the broth and salt, bring to a boil, cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer undisturbed for about 20 minutes.
- 3
Heat remaining 2 tbsp oil in a small fry pan and sauté the onion slowly until golden, stirring occasionally. Add pine nuts or almonds and currants to toast them lightly.
- 4
Turn the rice and noodles onto a platter and fluff with a fork. Serve sprinkled with the onions, nuts and currants. Serves 6-
- 5
*For this recipe, I recommend using wheat noodles (sometimes they are in nests) instead of rice vermicelli.
Tips & Storage
- How to Store
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Most sides keep well for 3-4 days. Dress salads just before serving to keep them crisp.
- Make Ahead Tip
- Many sides can be prepped in advance. Chop vegetables and make dressings ahead of time, then assemble just before serving.
- Serving Tip
- This pairs well with a variety of main dishes. Try it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or a hearty soup for a complete meal.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Middle Eastern–style Rice Pilaf?
This Middle Eastern–style Rice Pilaf recipe by Carolyn Cohen includes step-by-step instructions that are easy to follow. You'll need 11 ingredients and the recipe is designed for home cooks of all skill levels.
What goes well with this middle eastern–style rice pilaf?
This recipe pairs well with a variety of dishes. Try it as part of a complete meal with complementary sides, salads, or proteins.