Sometimes the simplest recipes are the ones we make over and over again. This rice with toasted vermicelli is a staple in our home—light, fluffy, buttery, and the perfect side dish for everything from chicken schnitzel to grilled meats and roasted vegetables. It comes together with just a handful of pantry ingredients but has so much flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice (I prefer Uncle Ben’s)
- 1 heaping cup vermicelli noodles
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
Directions
- Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the vermicelli noodles and stir constantly until they turn a beautiful golden brown.
- Once the noodles are evenly toasted, turn off the heat.
- Add the rice, water, and salt, then stir everything together.
- Return the pan to the heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cover with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer until the rice is tender and all of the water has been absorbed.
- Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving.
My Favorite Tips
🤍 The secret to this recipe is perfectly toasted vermicelli. Aim for a rich golden brown color—not too light and definitely not burnt.
🤍 If the noodles absorb more oil than you’d like while browning, simply spoon out a little before adding the remaining ingredients.
🤍 Like your rice extra noodle-y? Feel free to add a little more vermicelli. This recipe is easy to adjust based on your family’s preference.
🤍 Let the rice rest for a few minutes after cooking before fluffing it with a fork. It helps create the lightest, fluffiest texture.
Serving Suggestions
This rice pairs beautifully with chicken schnitzel, grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, kabobs, or any family-style dinner. It’s one of those classic side dishes that goes with just about everything and always disappears from the table.
Simple, comforting, and incredibly delicious—this is a recipe I come back to week after week.
Enjoy!
xo,
Kimmy
