Embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant heart of North Africa with this delightful recipe for Traditional North African Couscous with Vegetables! This hearty and flavorful dish is surprisingly simple to make, offering a delicious and healthy meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The fluffy couscous, combined with tender vegetables and aromatic spices, creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will transport you straight to the bustling souks of Marrakech.
This recipe for Traditional North African Couscous with Vegetables is a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple techniques. It’s a dish that showcases the beauty of North African cuisine, emphasizing the use of seasonal vegetables and fragrant spices. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, leading you to create a truly authentic and memorable meal. Get ready to savor the magic of North African flavors!
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 45 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate): Calories: 450-500, Protein: 12-15g, Fat: 15-20g, Carbohydrates: 60-70g.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Couscous | 1 cup |
| Vegetable Broth | 1 1/4 cups |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion | 1 medium, chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced |
| Carrots | 1 cup, chopped |
| Zucchini | 1 cup, chopped |
| Green Beans | 1 cup, trimmed and halved |
| Chickpeas (canned) | 1/2 cup, drained and rinsed |
| Cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste |
| Fresh Parsley (for garnish) | 1/4 cup, chopped |
Cooking Instructions
- Bring the vegetable broth to a boil in a saucepan. Remove from heat.
- Place the couscous in a heatproof bowl. Gradually pour the boiling broth over the couscous, stirring gently to combine. Cover the bowl and let it sit for 5-7 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the couscous is fluffy. Fluff with a fork.
- While the couscous is steaming, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, carrots, zucchini, and green beans to the skillet. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Stir in the cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute more, allowing the spices to bloom and infuse the vegetables with their aromatic flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the drained chickpeas to the skillet and gently stir to combine with the vegetables. This Traditional North African Couscous with Vegetables recipe is coming together beautifully!
- Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, gently fold them into the fluffy couscous. The Traditional North African Couscous with Vegetables is almost ready!
- Serve the Traditional North African Couscous with Vegetables immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions: This Traditional North African Couscous with Vegetables is delicious on its own, but you can also enhance it with a dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added texture and flavor. A side of harissa paste or a simple lemon-herb dressing can also complement the dish beautifully.
Notes and Tips: For a richer flavor, use homemade vegetable broth instead of store-bought. Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, eggplant, or potatoes, to customize the dish to your liking. If you prefer a spicier Traditional North African Couscous with Vegetables, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet with the spices. The Traditional North African Couscous with Vegetables is a versatile dish that can easily be adapted to your preferences.
This recipe for Traditional North African Couscous with Vegetables offers a delightful exploration of North African flavors. The combination of fluffy couscous, tender vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a satisfying and wholesome meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the journey!
