Grandma’s Middle Eastern Chicken Vermicelli

I was about 13 or 14 years old the last time I relished the taste of chicken vermicelli. Embarking on my food blogging journey, reviving my grandma’s mouth-watering vermicelli recipe felt like a heartwarming tribute. This dish is a flavorful throwback to when Grandma taught me the joy of simplicity in cooking.

Without her original recipe and two main authentic ingredients available only in Jordan, I endeavored to emulate it as closely as possible. I aim to encapsulate her nurturing spirit, mirrored through her dishes. In my quest for authentic flavors, I discovered health spice at a Middle Eastern market. If you can’t find hewajeh, a blend of turmeric, cumin, a hint of curry, and a touch of cinnamon can be a suitable substitute. As for samanih baladi, if it’s not accessible, regular ghee or olive oil will do just fine. Traditionally, Grandma used samanih baladi (a ghee made from sheep milk). My rendition involves sautéing onions, spicing the chicken, adding water, and creating a flavorful broth that helps bind the dish. Don’t forget to toast the vermicelli separately until it attains a golden hue.

Chicken Vermicelli Ingredients

• Chicken  Cut into Pieces): Main protein source, providing a rich and hearty flavor. Choose cuts based on personal preference, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
• Onions (Sliced Moon Shapes): Adds sweetness and aroma to the dish. It enhances the overall flavor profile and complements the savory chicken.
• Olive Oil and Ghee: Olive oil adds a smooth, fruity flavor, while ghee provides a rich, buttery taste. Both contribute to a luscious and flavorful cooking base.
• Spice Blend (Turmeric, Aleppo Pepper, Cumin, Hewaj, Cinnamon, Salt, Black Pepper):
  • Turmeric imparts an earthy and slightly bitter note, lending a vibrant yellow color.
  • Aleppo Pepper: Adds mild heat with fruity undertones.
  • Cumin: Contributes warm and slightly nutty flavors.
  • Hewaj: A complex Middle Eastern spice blend, adding aromatic depth.
  • Cinnamon: Provides warmth and a touch of sweetness.
  • Salt: Enhances and balances flavors.
  • Black Pepper: Adds pungency and mild spiciness.
• Water: Essential for creating a flavorful broth as the chicken cooks. Combines with the spices to form a savory base for the vermicelli.
• Vermicelli: Delicate and light, offering a neutral base for the dish. Absorbs flavors from the broth and spices, creating a well-balanced texture.
• Toasted Slivered Almonds: Adds a crunchy texture to the dish. It enhances the overall experience, providing a nutty flavor.

How Long Should You Cook the Vermicelli Noodles?

Toasting the vermicelli in a saucepan and cooking them for 5 to 10 minutes is essential while stirring. Achieving a balanced golden color is key, as over-toasting leads to a bitter taste, altering the dish’s essence.

What Cookware is Needed For This Recipe?

This dish is simple to assemble, requiring minimal cookware. For preparing chicken buried in vermicelli, a saucepan for toasting the vermicelli and a cast iron casserole for the chicken will suffice. A flat baking dish or cast iron casserole ensures even chicken pieces and vermicelli distribution.

How to Serve Your Chicken Vermicelli Dish

Serving the Chicken Vermicelli dish is a delightful experience that can be elevated with a refreshing side. Consider pairing it with a creamy yogurt salad for a cool and tangy contrast, or opt for the vibrant flavors of a Fattoush salad, brimming with crisp vegetables and a zesty dressing. The combination of hearty chicken, flavorful vermicelli, and aromatic spices perfectly balances these salads’ creamy or crunchy textures. Alternatively, an Arabic salad featuring fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs provides a light and herbaceous accompaniment that enhances this unique dish’s overall Middle Eastern flair. Whichever you choose, these salads add a complementary touch to the Chicken Vermicelli, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal for any occasion.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Your Chicken Vermicelli

Proper storage and reheating ensure that the flavors of the Chicken Vermicelli dish remain as delightful as the first serving. When storing leftovers, transfer the dish to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. The vermicelli in the dish tends to absorb the delicious juices over time, so when reheating, consider adding a splash of water to prevent it from drying out. This step not only revitalizes the moisture in the vermicelli but also maintains the overall succulence of the chicken. To reheat, use a microwave or stovetop, and be sure to stir the dish gently, allowing the added water to distribute evenly. This simple precaution ensures that every bite retains its original richness, providing a satisfying and flavorsome experience with each serving.