Spice up your dinner: oriental couscous recipe that’ll transport you to exotic lands

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Orient with our tantalizing Oriental couscous recipe. This delectable dish combines the fluffy texture of couscous with an array of aromatic spices, creating a symphony of flavors that will transport your taste buds to a world of culinary adventure.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Israeli couscous
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Couscous: In a medium saucepan, combine the couscous and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: While the couscous is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Spices and Cilantro: Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, allspice, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Combine Couscous and Vegetables: Fluff the couscous with a fork and add it to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir to combine.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve immediately.

Variations:

• Add Protein: For a more substantial meal, add grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the couscous.
• Use Different Vegetables: Experiment with other vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
• Adjust Spices: To your liking, you can increase or decrease the amount of spices used.
• Make it Vegetarian: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit the meat.

Tips:

• Use Israeli Couscous: This larger-grained couscous holds its shape better than traditional couscous, giving it a more flavorful texture.
• Toast the Spices: Toasting the spices in a dry skillet before adding them to the dish enhances their flavor.
• Let the Couscous Rest: After cooking, let the couscous rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop.

Serving Suggestions:

• As a Main Course: Serve the oriental couscous as a flavorful and satisfying main course.
• As a Side Dish: Pair the couscous with grilled meats, fish, or vegetarian dishes.
• For a Potluck or Party: Prepare a large batch of oriental couscous to share with friends and family.

Health Benefits of Oriental Couscous:

• Rich in Fiber: Couscous is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes satiety.
• Contains Antioxidants: The spices used in this recipe are rich in antioxidants, which protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
• Low in Calories: Oriental couscous is relatively low in calories, making it a good choice for weight management.

Takeaways:

Our oriental couscous recipe is a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to a world of exotic flavors. Whether you enjoy it as a main course, side dish, or at a gathering, this dish is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, embark on this culinary adventure, and savor the vibrant flavors of the Orient.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. Can I use regular couscous instead of Israeli couscous?
Yes, you can use regular couscous, but it will have a softer texture.
2. What if I don’t have vegetable broth?
You can use water instead, but the flavor will be less rich.
3. How can I make the dish spicier?
Add more ground cumin, coriander, or allspice to your taste.
4. Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
Yes, such as carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
5. How long will the oriental couscous keep in the refrigerator?
It will keep for up to 3 days in an airtight container.