- In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil and add half of the raw vermicelli. Lightly fry the vermicelli noodles until they turn golden brown, about 5 minutes. Then add a large volume of water to boil the fried vermicelli. Once the water starts to boil, add the rest of raw vermicelli and cook for just 3 minutes. Drain vermicelli in a colander. Add butter, cardamom, sugar and diluted saffron to the pan. Mix and heat until sugar is dissolved for about 6 to 8 minutes. Add vermicelli back to the pan, mix and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Serve.