Introduction to Moroccan Couscous Recipe
We are excited to share an authentic and delightful Moroccan Couscous Recipe, a dish that beautifully encapsulates the rich culinary traditions of Morocco and Israel. This recipe, passed down through generations, combines a flavorful blend of root vegetables, chickpeas, and raisins, all nestled atop a bed of fluffy couscous and drizzled with a savory, aromatic broth. With Mediterranean spices like paprika and turmeric adding color and depth, this dish is not just a meal but a comforting journey through cultural heritage.
Cultural Significance
Moroccan-style couscous holds a special place in our hearts as a cherished family comfort food. This dish, with its hearty ingredients and warming spices, brings back fond memories of family gatherings and the flavors of Israel. Our grandmother, born in Morocco and later residing in Israel, crafted this dish with love and a touch of culinary intuition. Though she often used a “pinch of this” and “a little bit of that,” the recipe always turned out to be a family favorite, passed down to us with added personal touches from each generation.
Ingredients
To prepare this sumptuous Moroccan-style veggie couscous, you will need the following ingredients:
- Couscous: 1 cup
- Broth: 7 cups (chicken or vegetable)
- Optional Meat: 1 cup pre-cooked chicken or lamb
Vegetables:
- Carrots: 2 medium (cut into large pieces) or baby carrots
- Pumpkin or Butternut Squash: 2 cups cubed (remove skin, cut into 1” pieces)
- Potato: 1 large (cut into 1” pieces)
- Sweet Potato: 1 large (cut into 1” pieces)
- Red Pepper: 1 large (cut into 1” pieces)
- Onion: 1 medium (thinly sliced)
- White Cabbage: 2 cups (cut into 1” pieces)
- Zucchinis: 2 (sliced approx. 0.5” wide)
Spices and Seasonings:
- Cinnamon Sticks: 1-2
- Raisins: 1/2 cup
- Bay Leaves: 2
- Chickpeas: 1 cup (freshly cooked or canned)
- Ground Ginger: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground Turmeric: 1 tablespoon
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Coriander: 1 teaspoon
- Chopped Garlic: 1 teaspoon
- Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 2 teaspoons (to taste)
- Olive Oil: 1/3 cup
Preparation
Step-by-Step Instructions
1.Prepare the Broth:
- Place the carrots in a large pot with the broth. Bring to a boil.
- Add the remaining vegetables (pumpkin, potato, sweet potato, red pepper, onion, cabbage, and zucchinis) and all spices (cinnamon sticks, bay leaves, ground ginger, turmeric, paprika, coriander, garlic, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt) to the pot.
- Drizzle with olive oil.
2. Simmer the Broth:
- Once the broth reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer, partially covered, for about 25-30 minutes.
- After 15 minutes, add the raisins to the pot.
3. Prepare the Couscous:
- While the broth and vegetables are simmering, prepare the couscous according to the package instructions. This typically involves bringing water to a boil, adding the couscous, removing from heat, and letting it stand for 5-10 minutes.
4. Assemble the Dish:
- To serve, arrange the couscous on a large serving plate.
- Top with the cooked vegetables, chickpeas, and a generous ladle of the flavorful broth.
Tips and Tricks
- Adjusting Spices: Feel free to modify the amount of spices to suit your taste preferences. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility.
- Vegetable Doneness: Keep an eye on the vegetables as they cook to avoid overcooking them. They should be tender but not mushy.
- Healthier Broth Option: If desired, chill the broth beforehand and remove any excess fat to create a lighter, healthier broth.
- Adding Meat: For those who prefer a non-vegetarian option, add pre-cooked chicken or lamb to the dish for an extra layer of flavor.
Conclusion
This Moroccan-style couscous recipe is a testament to the enduring legacy of family traditions and the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you are seeking a comforting meal for a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish to share with friends, this recipe promises to deliver a delightful culinary experience. Enjoy the journey through the rich tastes and cultural heritage of Morocco and Israel with every bite.
Couscous with Seven Vegetables / كسكس سبع خضار – CookingWithAlia
We hope you savor this Moroccan Couscous Recipe as much as our family does. Bon appétit!
