Couscous, a staple food in many North African cuisines, is a versatile ingredient that can take your dinner from ordinary to extraordinary. Let’s explore how to make delicious and nutritious meals using couscous.
The Magic of Couscous
Couscous is made from tiny granules of durum wheat and is a fantastic source of protein and fiber. Not only is it rich in nutrients, but it’s also quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Couscous Vegetable Stir-fry
This recipe transforms simple vegetables and couscous into a vibrant, flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup couscous
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the couscous according to the package instructions.
- While the couscous is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet.
- Add the vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry until they’re tender.
- Stir in the cooked couscous, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Couscous Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Ingredients:
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- For the vinaigrette: 1/4 cup lemon juice, 1/2 cup olive oil, Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the couscous according to the package instructions.
- In a large bowl, combine the couscous, cucumber, tomatoes, and feta cheese.
- Whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients and pour over the salad. Toss well and serve chilled.
Morrocan-Style Couscous with Lamb
For those looking for a hearty, flavorful dinner option, this Moroccan-style couscous with lamb is a must-try.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups couscous
- 1 lb lamb, cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot and add the lamb, onion, carrots, and spices. Cook until the lamb is browned.
- Add the broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
- Stir in the couscous, cover again, and cook for another 15-20 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Discover the World of Couscous: A Versatile Ingredient
Couscous, a staple food in many North African cuisines, is a versatile ingredient that can take your dinner from ordinary to extraordinary. Let’s explore how to make delicious and nutritious meals using couscous.
The Magic of Couscous
Couscous is made from tiny granules of durum wheat and is a fantastic source of protein and fiber. Not only is it rich in nutrients, but it’s also quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Couscous Vegetable Stir-fry
This recipe transforms simple vegetables and couscous into a vibrant, flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup couscous
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the couscous according to the package instructions.
- While the couscous is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet.
- Add the vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry until they’re tender.
- Stir in the cooked couscous, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Couscous Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Ingredients:
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- For the vinaigrette: 1/4 cup lemon juice, 1/2 cup olive oil, Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the couscous according to the package instructions.
- In a large bowl, combine the couscous, cucumber, tomatoes, and feta cheese.
- Whisk together the vinaigrette ingredients and pour over the salad. Toss well and serve chilled.
Morrocan-Style Couscous with Lamb
For those looking for a hearty, flavorful dinner option, this Moroccan-style couscous with lamb is a must-try.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups couscous
- 1 lb lamb, cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot and add the lamb, onion, carrots, and spices. Cook until the lamb is browned.
- Add the broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
- Stir in the couscous, cover again, and cook for another 15-20 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Explore the world of couscous and find your favorite way to enjoy this versatile grain! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dinner for guests, couscous has got you covered.
