Couscous with Asparagus and Mandarin Oranges

Vegan Couscous with Asparagus and Mandarin Oranges Recipe

Preparation time: 25 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Couscous with Asparagus and Mandarin Oranges is a flavorful and colorful dish that combines the sweetness of mandarin oranges with the earthy taste of asparagus. This dish is perfect for a light and healthy meal that is easy to prepare.

History

Couscous is a traditional North African dish made from steamed semolina grains. It is often served with vegetables, meat, or fish. The addition of mandarin oranges and asparagus to this dish gives it a unique twist and adds a burst of flavor.

Ingredients

1 cup of orange juice
1 cup of water
3 tsp of olive oil
2 tsp of grated ginger
1 cup of couscous
16 asparagus stalks, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
0.5 cup of frozen peas
2 cups of canned mandarin oranges
4 green onions, minced
0.5 tbsp of cayenne pepper
0.25 cup of toasted walnuts [1]

How to prepare

In a nonreactive saucepan, bring orange juice, water, 2 tsp of olive oil, 1 tsp of salt, and ginger root to a boil over high heat.
Place couscous in a large bowl and pour the orange juice mixture over it.
Cover tightly and let it stand for 20 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat 1 tsp of olive oil in a non-stick skillet and sauté the asparagus for 2 minutes.
Add red peppers and peas, sauté for 1 minute.
Add the sautéed vegetables to the couscous along with the oranges, green onion, 1 tsp of salt, cayenne pepper, and nuts; combine well.
Serve warm or at room temperature.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
Substitute quinoa for couscous for a gluten-free option.
Use different vegetables such as zucchini or broccoli.

References

↑ To toast walnuts, place a single layer in a baking dish and toast in 350°F (177°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until golden.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cover the couscous tightly while it is resting to ensure that it absorbs all the flavors of the orange juice mixture.

- Be careful not to overcook the asparagus, as it can become mushy.

- Toasting the walnuts before adding them to the dish will enhance their flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be served as a main course or as a side dish. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the vegetables to retain their crunchiness.

- Toast the walnuts to enhance their flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.

- Substitute almonds or pecans for walnuts.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Couscous with Asparagus and Mandarin Oranges contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

One serving of Couscous with Asparagus and Mandarin Oranges contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

One serving of Couscous with Asparagus and Mandarin Oranges contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

One serving of Couscous with Asparagus and Mandarin Oranges contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamin C from the mandarin oranges and asparagus. It also contains vitamin A, vitamin K, and folate.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (walnuts) and gluten (couscous). It may not be suitable for those with nut allergies or gluten sensitivities.

Summary

Couscous with Asparagus and Mandarin Oranges is a nutritious dish that is high in carbohydrates and fats, moderate in proteins, and rich in vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Couscous with Asparagus and Mandarin Oranges is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare. With a perfect balance of flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was a sunny afternoon in the bustling marketplace of Marrakech, Morocco. The air was filled with the tantalizing aromas of spices, fresh fruits, and savory meats. I had always been drawn to the vibrant colors and exotic flavors of Moroccan cuisine, and that day, I stumbled upon a small stand selling freshly made couscous dishes.

As I approached the stand, I saw a woman expertly mixing together fluffy couscous with tender asparagus and juicy mandarin oranges. The combination of ingredients seemed unusual yet intriguing to me. I struck up a conversation with the woman, who introduced herself as Fatima, and she kindly shared her recipe with me.

Fatima explained that couscous with asparagus and mandarin oranges was a popular dish in Moroccan households, especially during the spring when fresh asparagus and mandarin oranges were in season. She told me that the dish was not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and vitamins.

I eagerly listened as Fatima walked me through the steps of making the dish. She started by toasting the couscous in a pan until it turned a golden brown color, then added in some vegetable broth to cook the couscous until it was light and fluffy. Next, she blanched the asparagus in boiling water and then sautéed them with garlic and olive oil until they were tender. Finally, she added in the mandarin oranges, along with their juices, to the couscous mixture and let everything simmer together until the flavors melded beautifully.

I couldn't wait to try the dish for myself, so I purchased all the necessary ingredients from the market and hurried back to my kitchen. As I followed Fatima's instructions, the enticing aromas of citrus and spices filled my home, transporting me back to the streets of Marrakech.

When the couscous with asparagus and mandarin oranges was finally ready, I plated it up and took my first bite. The flavors exploded on my taste buds – the sweetness of the mandarin oranges paired perfectly with the earthy asparagus and nutty couscous. It was a culinary revelation, and I knew that this dish would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times, each time tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my own tastes. Sometimes, I add in a pinch of saffron for a touch of luxury, or I sprinkle in some toasted almonds for added crunch. No matter how I prepare it, though, the dish never fails to delight my family and friends.

I often think back to that fateful day in Marrakech when I first learned how to make couscous with asparagus and mandarin oranges. It was a serendipitous encounter that opened my eyes to the beauty and diversity of world cuisine. I am forever grateful to Fatima for sharing her recipe with me, and I will always cherish the memories of that magical afternoon in the bustling marketplace.