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.

Nutriscore Rating: 66/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

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	982.3 grams (982.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1492

Total Fat 52.90g	68%
Saturated Fat 29.00g	145%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 124mg	41%
Sodium 2310mg	100%
Total Carbohydrate 221.80g	81%
Dietary Fiber 9.60g	34%
Total Sugars 5.40g
Protein 42.60g	85%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 156mg	12%
Iron 12mg	64%
Potassium 910mg	19%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 31.0%

Protein: 11.1%

Carbs: 57.8%