Nut-Free Armenian Rice Pilaf
Discover the comforting flavors of Nut-Free Armenian Rice Pilaf, a quick, family-friendly side dish bursting with buttery, golden goodness. Perfectly toasted vermicelli pasta complements fluffy, basmati rice in this hearty dish simmered gently in savory chicken broth. With just a hint of fresh parsley for a bright finish, this nut-free recipe captures the signature nutty essence of traditional Armenian pilaf—without actual nuts! Ready in under 35 minutes, this versatile side pairs beautifully with roasted meats, kebabs, or your favorite Middle Eastern-inspired dishes. Simple, satisfying, and effortlessly elegant, this classic recipe is a must-try addition to your dinner table.
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Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
- 1 cup Vermicelli pasta
- 1 cup Basmati rice
- 2 cups Chicken broth
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Chopped fresh parsley
Directions
Step 1
Begin by rinsing the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This helps the rice remain fluffy and prevents it from becoming sticky during cooking.
Step 2
In a medium saucepan or deep skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
Step 3
Add the vermicelli pasta to the melted butter. Stir constantly and sauté the pasta until it is golden brown. This should take about 4-5 minutes and will add a nutty flavor to the pilaf without any nuts.
Step 4
Once the vermicelli is golden, add the rinsed and drained basmati rice to the pan.
Step 5
Stir the rice and vermicelli together, allowing the rice to be lightly coated with butter.
Step 6
Pour in the chicken broth. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 7
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer gently for 18-20 minutes. Avoid removing the lid during this period in order to ensure proper steaming.
Step 8
After 20 minutes, check to ensure the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender. If necessary, cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Step 9
Remove from heat and let the pilaf sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the steam to continue cooking the rice to perfection.
Step 10
Season the pilaf with salt and ground black pepper, adjusting to taste.
Step 11
Fluff the rice pilaf with a fork and garnish with the chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Step 12
Serve warm as a side dish to complement your favorite Armenian or Middle Eastern meals.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (982.3g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1491.9 |
| Total Fat 52.9g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 29.0g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0g | |
| Cholesterol 124mg | 0% |
| Sodium 2309.7mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 221.8g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 9.6g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 5.4g | |
| Protein 42.6g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 156.0mg | 0% |
| Iron 11.6mg | 0% |
| Potassium 910.4mg | 0% |
Source of Calories