Rice with Vermicelli and Ground Meat – A Middle Eastern Classic

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Rice with Vermicelli and Ground Meat – A Middle Eastern Classic

This dish is a staple on many Middle Eastern tables, especially during lunch. It’s often served as the main course due to the importance of rice in the region's cuisine. Simple, flavorful, and filling—this recipe is loved across generations.

Did you know?
One cup of cooked white rice contains approximately 165 calories, along with a modest amount of vitamins, minerals, and a small quantity of dietary fiber. Perfect for a hearty yet light meal.

This recipe serves 4 to 5 people.

Ingredients

Rice with Vermicelli and Ground Meat

 

  • 4 cups Egyptian (short-grain) rice

  • 1 cup vermicelli noodles

  • 250g finely ground beef

  • 2½ tablespoons clarified butter (or substitute with oil or regular butter)

  • 1 medium tablespoon table salt

  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

  • 1 bay leaf

  • 6 cups hot water

How to Prepare Rice with Vermicelli and Meat

Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Wash the rice thoroughly several times, then soak it in warm water for about 15 minutes. This step helps shorten cooking time and results in fluffier grains.

In a deep nonstick pan (preferably Tefal), melt half the amount of butter or oil over low heat. Add the vermicelli and sauté, stirring constantly, until golden brown and fragrant.

Once the vermicelli is golden, add the drained rice and stir for about a minute so it absorbs the flavor and butter evenly.

Add hot water—use a ratio of 2 cups of water for every 1 cup of rice. That’s 8 cups for this recipe. Then add salt, black pepper, and the bay leaf.

Stir gently to mix everything, then raise the heat to high and allow the rice to cook uncovered until most of the water is absorbed and small holes appear on the surface. Do not stir during this stage to keep the rice fluffy and prevent clumping.

Once you see holes on top, lower the heat to very low, cover the pot, and let it steam for 15 to 20 minutes, or until fully cooked and all the water is absorbed.

Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Meat
In a separate pan, melt the remaining half of the butter over low heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully browned and cooked through.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Pour the cooked meat over the rice and gently mix everything together. Be careful not to over-stir to keep the rice grains separate and light.

Transfer the rice to a large serving platter.

Optionally, garnish with toasted pine nuts or almonds for extra flavor and crunch.

Serve hot, alongside broth or plain yogurt—and enjoy a comforting taste of the Middle East. Bon appétit!

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