How to make couscous like a pro: exclusive waitrose recipe inside

Waitrose couscous is a versatile and flavorful ingredient that opens up a world of culinary possibilities. Whether you’re seeking a quick and easy weeknight meal or an exotic dish to impress your dinner guests, this popular couscous recipe from the renowned British grocer Waitrose offers an effortless and delicious solution.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup Waitrose couscous
• 2 cups boiling water
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, juiced

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Couscous: In a large bowl, combine the couscous and boiling water. Cover with a lid and let stand for 5 minutes, or until the couscous is fully hydrated.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened. Stir in the bell peppers and zucchini and continue to cook until tender-crisp.
3. Combine the Ingredients: Fluff the couscous with a fork and add it to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in the cilantro, mint, almonds, raisins, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the Lemon Juice: Pour in the lemon juice and stir to combine.
5. Taste and Adjust Seasonings: Taste the couscous and adjust the seasonings to your liking. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice.
6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish the couscous with additional chopped cilantro and mint. Serve immediately or at room temperature.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

• Spicy Couscous: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the sautéed vegetables for a touch of heat.
• Mediterranean Couscous: Add 1/2 cup of chopped kalamata olives and 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese.
• Moroccan Couscous: Stir in 1/4 cup of chopped dried apricots and 1/4 cup of chopped dates.
• Vegan Couscous: Omit the almonds and use vegetable broth instead of water.

Pairing Suggestions

Waitrose couscous is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course, side dish, or appetizer. Here are a few pairing ideas:

• Grilled Chicken: Serve the couscous with grilled chicken breasts for a protein-packed meal.
• Falafel: Pair the couscous with falafel for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Hummus: Serve the couscous with hummus for a flavorful and healthy dip.
• Salad: Add the couscous to a salad for a refreshing and filling side dish.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh vegetables will give your couscous the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the couscous: The couscous should be tender-crisp, not mushy.
• Taste the couscous before serving: Adjust the seasonings to your liking.
• Let the couscous rest: Allowing the couscous to rest before serving will help it absorb all the flavors.

Beyond the Basic Recipe

Waitrose couscous is not just limited to the classic recipe. Explore these additional ideas to expand your culinary horizons:

• Couscous Salad: Combine the couscous with your favorite salad ingredients, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, feta cheese, and olives.
• Couscous Stuffing: Use the couscous as a stuffing for roasted vegetables or poultry.
• Couscous Tabbouleh: Combine the couscous with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and parsley. Dress with olive oil and lemon juice.

The Art of Couscous: A Culinary Odyssey

Couscous is a staple ingredient in many North African cuisines. It is made from semolina flour and is typically steamed or boiled. The resulting grains are light and fluffy, making them an ideal base for a variety of dishes.
In Morocco, couscous is often served as a main course with meat or vegetables. In Tunisia, it is commonly used as a side dish or appetizer. And in Algeria, it is often paired with a spicy stew.

What You Need to Learn

Q: Can I use other types of couscous besides Waitrose couscous?
A: Yes, you can use any type of couscous you like. However, Waitrose couscous is known for its high quality and flavor.
Q: How do I store leftover couscous?
A: Leftover couscous can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze couscous?
A: Yes, you can freeze couscous for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before using.
Q: What are some other ways to use couscous?
A: Couscous can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads, soups, stews, and casseroles.
Q: How do I make sure my couscous is cooked properly?
A: The couscous should be tender-crisp, not mushy. If it is too hard, add a little more water. If it is too soft, drain off the excess water.