Embark on a culinary journey to discover the versatile and delectable world of couscous, a North African staple grain that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food enthusiasts worldwide. Couscous is a tiny, pasta-like grain made from semolina flour, offering a unique texture and nutty flavor that blends seamlessly with various ingredients. Its versatility extends from fluffy side dishes to hearty main courses, making it a favorite among home cooks and culinary experts alike. In this comprehensive guide, we present a collection of delectable couscous recipes that showcase its diverse culinary applications.
From the classic Moroccan couscous, a flavorful and aromatic dish brimming with vegetables, tender meat, and a rich broth, to the vibrant Israeli couscous salad, bursting with fresh herbs, tangy feta cheese, and crisp vegetables, each recipe promises a culinary adventure. Discover the secrets of creating the perfect couscous every time, ensuring light and fluffy grains that absorb the delicious flavors of your chosen accompaniments. Whether you prefer a simple yet satisfying side dish or a hearty and wholesome main course, our curated selection of recipes caters to every palate and occasion. So, prepare to tantalize your taste buds and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the diverse and delectable world of couscous.
PERFECT COUSCOUS
Couscous is made from tiny steamed balls of semolina flour. Though we think of it as a grain, it's actually a type of pasta.
Categories Vegetables & Sides
Time 10m
Yield 4 - 6
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water (or broth), salt, butter, and oil to a boil. Stir in the couscous, cover tightly with a lid, and remove from heat. Let the couscous steam for 5 minutes. Use a fork to fluff the couscous and break up any clumps. Serve warm.
- Freezer-Friendly Instructions: The couscous can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, reheat it in the microwave until hot.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 226, Fat 5g, Carbohydrate 37g, Protein 7g, SaturatedFat 2g, Sugar 0g, Fiber 2g, Sodium 220mg, Cholesterol 5mg
HOW TO COOK COUSCOUS
Learn how to cook couscous perfectly every time! It takes just 15 minutes and a handful of ingredients. This quick couscous recipe is a great side next to your favorite protein, or use it as a bed to a tasty stew.
Provided by Suzy Karadsheh
Categories Side
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- In a saucepan, add broth or water. Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of kosher salt. Bring to a boil.
- Now, toast the couscous. In a non-stick skillet or pan, heat about 1 to 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil. Add the couscous and toss around with a wooden spoon until golden brown. This is an optional step but can really adds a great nutty flavor.
- Stir couscous in the boiled liquid quickly and immediately turn the heat off. Cover and let sit for 10 minutes or until couscous has completely absorbed the broth or water.
- Uncover and fluff with a fork.
- You can serve couscous plain, or mix in spices and herbs to give it more flavor. If you like, add in a pinch of cumin, sautéed garlic, chopped green onions, and fresh herbs or your choice. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts : Calories 202 kcal, Sodium 1.1 mg, Fat 1.1 g, SaturatedFat 0.1 g, Carbohydrate 34.2 g, Fiber 5.3 g, Protein 7.1 g, ServingSize 1 serving
VEGETABLE COUSCOUS
Looking for a different way to serve vegetables? These tiny pasta granules act like a magnet, pulling together the flavors of the chicken broth and vitamin-rich veggies. Carrots, celery, peppers and zucchini add fresh crunch and bright color.
Provided by Taste of Home
Categories Side Dishes
Time 30m
Yield 4 servings.
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- In a large skillet, saute the carrots, celery, onion and peppers in oil for 5-6 minutes or until vegetables are crisp-tender. Add the next five ingredients. , Stir in couscous. Add broth; bring to a boil. Cover and remove from the heat; let stand for 5-8 minutes. Fluff with a fork and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 272 calories, Fat 8g fat (1g saturated fat), Cholesterol 0 cholesterol, Sodium 513mg sodium, Carbohydrate 43g carbohydrate (0 sugars, Fiber 4g fiber), Protein 8g protein. Diabetic Exchanges
PERFECT COUSCOUS
Couscous isn't a grain, as some people may think - it's actually a type of pasta made from durum wheat and shaped like a grain. The couscous you have in your pantry is most likely instant couscous that's been steamed and dried so it cooks very quickly, for a fast and easy side dish or base for a salad or bowl. Look for whole wheat couscous in your supermarket; it cooks in the same time as the regular variety and has all the virtues of whole wheat pasta. This recipe makes a big batch for make-ahead meal prep but is easily halved.
Provided by Food Network Kitchen
Categories side-dish
Time 10m
Yield about 6 cups
Number Of Ingredients 4
Steps:
- Combine the water or broth, olive oil and 1 teaspoon salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil. Stir in the couscous and immediately remove from the heat. Cover and let sit 5 minutes.
- Fluff the couscous thoroughly with a fork (the more you fluff, the more separate and light the grains will be). Season with salt and pepper. If you are making the couscous ahead, spread while hot on a baking sheet lined with parchment to stop the cooking as it cools. Once cool, refrigerate in an airtight container up to 5 days.
Tips:
- Use the right ratio of couscous to liquid. The general rule is 1 cup of couscous to 1 1/2 cups of liquid. However, this can vary depending on the type of couscous you are using. Check the package directions for specific instructions.
- Bring the liquid to a boil before adding the couscous. This will help to ensure that the couscous cooks evenly.
- Cover the couscous and let it sit for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This will allow the couscous to absorb all of the liquid and become fluffy.
- Fluff the couscous with a fork before serving. This will help to separate the grains and make the couscous light and airy.
- Add your favorite seasonings and ingredients to the couscous. Couscous is a versatile grain that can be flavored with a variety of ingredients. Try adding herbs, spices, vegetables, or meat to your couscous dish.
Conclusion:
Couscous is a quick and easy-to-cook grain that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is a good source of fiber and protein, and it can be a healthy addition to your diet. With its mild flavor and fluffy texture, couscous is a versatile grain that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Are you curently on diet or you just want to control your food's nutritions, ingredients? We will help you find recipes by cooking method, nutrition, ingredients...
Check it out »
You'll also love