19+ Middle East Couscous Recipe Discover Culinary Perfection!
Published on: Mar 8, 2024
Couscous is a staple dish in Middle Eastern cuisine and is enjoyed by many around the world. This versatile grain dish is not only delicious, but also easy to prepare, making it a popular choice for busy weeknights. If you're looking to add some Middle Eastern flavor to your meals, this couscous recipe is a must-try.
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The Ingredients You'll Need
1. Couscous
The star of this dish is, of course, the couscous itself. This small, granular pasta is traditionally made from semolina wheat, but can also be found in whole wheat or gluten-free varieties. Choose whichever type you prefer, as the recipe will work with all of them.
2. Olive Oil
Olive oil is a staple in Middle Eastern cooking and adds a rich, savory flavor to the couscous. Extra virgin olive oil is the preferred choice for this recipe as it has a more robust taste, but any type of olive oil will work.
3. Vegetables
To make this dish more nutritious and colorful, we'll be adding a variety of vegetables. You can use any combination of veggies you like, but some popular choices include diced bell peppers, sliced zucchini, chopped tomatoes, and grated carrots.
4. Spices
The key to a flavorful couscous is the right blend of spices. This recipe calls for a combination of cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. These spices will add a burst of savory, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors to the dish.
5. Chicken or Vegetable Broth
Instead of using plain water to cook the couscous, we'll be using chicken or vegetable broth to infuse it with more flavor. If you don't have broth on hand, you can use water, but the dish won't be as flavorful.
How to Make Middle Eastern Couscous
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let's get cooking!
1. In a large saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add in your chosen vegetables and sauté for a few minutes until slightly softened.
2. Add in the spices and stir for a minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a boil.
4. Once the broth is boiling, add in the couscous and stir well. Remove the saucepan from heat and cover it with a lid. Let it sit for about 5 minutes.
5. After 5 minutes, fluff the couscous with a fork. If it seems too dry, you can add a little more olive oil or broth.
6. Serve your Middle Eastern couscous as a side dish or add some protein, such as grilled chicken or shrimp, to make it a complete meal.
With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy a delicious and authentic Middle Eastern couscous dish in no time. Experiment with different vegetables and spices to make it your own, and don't be afraid to get creative with your toppings. This versatile dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
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