Cousous topped with almonds

Moroccan Couscous Topped with Almonds Recipe

Region / culture: Morocco | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Couscous topped with almonds is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. This recipe combines fluffy couscous with a variety of colorful vegetables, sweet raisins, and crunchy almonds, all tossed in a flavorful marinade. The dish is easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep.

History

Couscous is a traditional North African dish made from tiny granules of durum wheat. It has been a staple food in the region for centuries and is commonly served with meat, vegetables, and a variety of spices. The addition of almonds to couscous is a modern twist on the classic dish, adding a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the dish.

Ingredients

1.5 cup dry couscous
1.5 cup boiling water
1 cup carrots
1 large bell pepper (green, red, or yellow)
1 cup green beans, cut into 1" pieces
0.33 cup red onions, sliced
0.33 cup currants or raisins
2 tbsp almonds, toasted and chopped
marinade
0.25 cup canola oil
0.5 cup orange juice
0.25 tsp cinnamon
3 tbsp lemon juice
0.5 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh dill, mixed

How to prepare

Couscous is available in large supermarkets or specialty stores. Place the couscous in a large bowl and stir in the boiling water. Cover and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring once or twice with a fork to fluff.
Steam the carrots, pepper, and green beans until they are just tender. The cooking time varies for each vegetable. Pepper takes about 1 to 2 minutes, green beans take about 2 minutes, and carrots take about 4 minutes. Add the steamed vegetables to the couscous.
Gently stir in the red onion, currants, and almonds.
Whisk all the ingredients for the marinade together. Add the marinade to the couscous mixture and allow it to chill for 2 hours in a covered bowl in the refrigerator, or until it is cool throughout. Do not let the couscous sit any longer than this, or it will become mushy.
One serving (0.08 mixture, about 0.5 cup) (0.5 cup - does this mean that we must have 10 other people over for lunch? You all come!)
Food exchange per serving: 1 starch/bread exchange + 1 fat exchange (there are vegetables listed in the above ingredients, yet there is no vegetable exchange listed)
Calories: 155; Carbohydrates: 23g; Protein: 4g; Fat: 5g; Cholesterol: 0mg; Sodium: 8mg;

Variations

Add diced chicken or tofu for added protein.
Swap out the vegetables for your favorites, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.
Use different nuts, such as pistachios or walnuts, in place of almonds for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to fluff the couscous with a fork after it has cooked to prevent it from clumping together.

- Steam the vegetables until they are just tender to retain their vibrant colors and crisp texture.

- Toasting the almonds before adding them to the dish will enhance their flavor and crunchiness.

- Allow the couscous mixture to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve couscous topped with almonds as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and healthy lunch option.

Cooking Techniques

Fluff the couscous with a fork after cooking to prevent clumping.

- Steam the vegetables until just tender to retain their texture and color.

- Toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant to enhance their flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use quinoa or rice in place of couscous for a gluten-free option.

- Substitute dried cranberries or apricots for the raisins.

- Use olive oil in place of canola oil for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Couscous topped with almonds can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply toss the ingredients together and chill until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the couscous with fresh herbs, such as parsley or mint, for a pop of color. Serve in a large bowl or platter for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair couscous topped with almonds with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. It also pairs well with a light and refreshing salad.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through or enjoy cold as a refreshing salad.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of couscous topped with almonds contains 155 calories. This makes it a light and satisfying meal option that won't weigh you down.

Carbohydrates

One serving of couscous topped with almonds contains 23g of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are essential for fueling daily activities.

Fats

Each serving of couscous topped with almonds contains 5g of fat. The fat in this dish comes from the almonds and canola oil used in the marinade. Healthy fats are important for brain function and overall health.

Proteins

This dish provides 4g of protein per serving. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, making it an important nutrient for overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

Couscous topped with almonds is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the orange juice, vitamin A from the carrots, and iron from the raisins. These nutrients are important for supporting the immune system and overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains almonds, which are a common allergen. Be sure to check for any food allergies before serving this dish to guests.

Summary

Couscous topped with almonds is a nutritious and flavorful dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is a great option for a light and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare.

Summary

Couscous topped with almonds is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and satisfying meal. With a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, this dish is a great option for a healthy and flavorful lunch or dinner. Enjoy the flavors of North Africa with this modern twist on a classic dish.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. It was a cool autumn day, and I was visiting a dear friend of mine who lived in a small village in Morocco. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the warm and inviting aroma of spices and roasted almonds.

My friend, Fatima, smiled and motioned for me to sit at the table while she busied herself with preparing lunch. I watched in awe as she effortlessly tossed together a simple yet delicious dish of couscous topped with almonds. The fluffy grains of couscous were perfectly seasoned with a blend of fragrant spices, and the crunchy almonds added a delightful crunch to each bite.

As I savored the first mouthful of the couscous, I couldn't help but ask Fatima for the recipe. She laughed and handed me a worn and stained piece of paper, telling me that it was a family recipe that had been passed down for generations. I thanked her profusely and promised to make it for my own family back home.

When I returned home, I couldn't wait to recreate the couscous topped with almonds that had left such a lasting impression on me. I gathered the necessary ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen, following Fatima's handwritten instructions to the letter.

The scent of the spices filled the air as I cooked, transporting me back to that cozy kitchen in Morocco. I could almost hear Fatima's laughter and feel the warmth of her hospitality as I stirred the couscous and toasted the almonds.

Finally, the dish was ready. I plated it carefully, topping each serving with a generous sprinkle of roasted almonds. As I took the first bite, I was instantly transported back to that moment in Fatima's kitchen, savoring the flavors and memories that came with each mouthful.

I shared the couscous topped with almonds with my family, who were equally enchanted by its exotic flavors and comforting textures. They begged me to make it again and again, and soon it became a staple in our household.

Over the years, I have experimented with the recipe, adding my own twist here and there to suit my family's tastes. I have shared it with friends and neighbors, who have all fallen in love with its simple yet satisfying flavors.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover this wonderful recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences and people who have shaped my love for cooking. From Fatima's kitchen in Morocco to my own humble abode, the couscous topped with almonds has become a symbol of the connections we forge through food and shared experiences.

I hope that by sharing this story and recipe with you, dear reader, you too will find joy and comfort in the simple act of cooking and sharing a meal with loved ones. May the flavors of the couscous topped with almonds transport you to distant lands and warm memories, just as it has done for me. Bon appétit!