Vermicelli Rice (Arroz con Fideos)

This Vermicelli Rice (Arroz con Fideos) is delicious and comforting, but it's also incredibly easy to make, using simple ingredients that pack a punch offlavor. One tasty side dish that will be a hit on anyoccasion.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Latina

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 25

Total Time 30

Servings servings

Calories 382kcal

Author Oriana Romero

Equipment

Ingredients

2 cups (400 g) basmati rice
3 tablespoons (45 ml) olive oil
1 cup (120 g) broken vermicelli pasta
4 cups (480 ml) water (follow the package suggestions for water-to-rice ratios and cooking times)
2 teaspoons (8 g) salt
2 teaspoons (8 g) garlic powder
4 tablespoon s (56 g) unsalted butter

Instructions

Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water until the water is no longer cloudy. I recommend capturing some of the rinse water in a bowl to check whether it is starchy. Keep rinsing and checking until the water runs clear. Shake and lightly press with hands to drain.
In a medium cooking pot, heat the olive oil on medium-high heat. Add the vermicelli pasta and continuously stir to toast it evenly. Vermicelli should turn a nice golden-brown color, but it burns easily so keep your eyes open, so they don’t over-brown or burn.
Add the rinsed basmati rice and continue to stir so that the rice toasts a bit too, about 1 minute, or until the rice is opaque and well-coated with the olive oil.
Add 4 cups of water, salt and garlic powder; mix to combine. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cover and reduce to low heat and simmer. Cook until the rice has absorbed the water, about 15 to 20 minutes. Turn off the heat and keep the rice covered for 5 minutes.
IMPORTANT: Make sure to check the manufacturer's package for instructions on the amount of water to add and cook time. Specific types of rice may differ from this recipe.
Add the cubed butter on top of the rice and fluff the rice with a fork, trying to incorporate and distribute the butter throughout the rice. Served hot.

Notes

Rice: Depending on the type and brand of rice you are using, the water quantity and cooking time may vary slightly. To ensure the best results, I recommend using a type of rice you are familiar with or following the package suggestions for water-to-rice ratios and cooking times. Adjust the water amount accordingly if needed, as some rice varieties may require more or less water for optimal cooking. By following these guidelines, you'll always achieve perfectly cooked Vermicelli Rice.

Refrigerator: Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to5 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out.

Freezer: To freeze, transfer cooled rice to freezer-safe bags or containers and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Recipe Tips:

Rice: I like to use basmati rice for this recipe. However, you can use any long-grain or medium-grain rice. Make sure to check the manufacturer's package for instructions on the amount of water to add and cook time. Specific types of rice may differ from this recipe.
Rinse: You must rinse the rice to get rid of excess starch, which causes rice to be sticky (this rice is not meant to be sticky)
Use Cold Water: adding cold water to the rice allows the grains to gradually absorb the water and ensures that they cook evenly. If you add boiling water to the pot, its intense heat will cook the outside too quickly before the inside has a chance to soften.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste the rice before serving and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You can add more salt, garlic powder, or even a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Fluff with a Fork: After cooking the rice, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains and achieve a light, fluffy texture.
Let it Rest: Allow the rice to rest for a few minutes after

Variations & Additions:

Add Vegetables: Enhance the dish's nutritional value by stirring in diced vegetables such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking.
Herb Infusion: Stir in freshly chopped herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill before serving for a pop of freshness.
Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices such as cumin, paprika, or turmeric to add complexity to the flavor profile.

Fun Additions: Get creative and customize the dish with your favorite ingredients, such as toasted nuts, dried fruit, or crumbled feta cheese.

Read the whole post for more tips, tricks, variations, step-by-step photos, and more.

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Please note that nutritional information is a rough estimate, and it can vary depending on the products used.

Nutrition