Curried Couscous with Raisins

Moroccan Vegan Recipe: Curried Couscous with Raisins

Region / culture: Morocco | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Curried Couscous with Raisins is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the nutty taste of couscous with the sweetness of raisins and the warm spices of curry and cumin. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal or as a side dish for a special occasion.

History

Couscous is a traditional North African dish made from tiny grains of steamed semolina. It is a staple food in many countries in the region, including Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. The addition of curry and raisins to couscous is a popular variation that adds a unique twist to this classic dish.

Ingredients

1.5 cups vegetable stock
1.5 cups couscous
1 minced onion
0.33 cups raisins
1 tbsp margarine
1 tsp curry
0.5 tsp cumin
1 dash black pepper

How to prepare

In a saucepan, bring vegetable stock to a boil. Add couscous and remove from heat. Cover and let it stand for 5 minutes or until the grains are tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Meanwhile, in a saucepan or microwave dish, cook the onion in 1 tbsp of water over medium heat or microwave on high power for 1.5 minutes or until tender.
Fluff the couscous with a fork. Add the onion, raisins, margarine, curry powder, cumin, and pepper to taste. Stir with a fork.

Variations

Add chopped nuts such as almonds or pistachios for extra crunch.
Substitute dried cranberries or apricots for the raisins for a different flavor profile.
Stir in cooked chickpeas or lentils for added protein.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to fluff the couscous with a fork after cooking to separate the grains and prevent clumping.

- Adjust the amount of curry powder and cumin to suit your taste preferences.

- You can add other ingredients such as chopped nuts, diced vegetables, or cooked chicken to customize this dish to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Curried Couscous with Raisins as a side dish with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. It also pairs well with lamb or beef dishes.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming the couscous in vegetable stock adds flavor and helps to keep the grains moist and fluffy.

- Cooking the onion in water before adding it to the couscous helps to soften the onion and enhance its flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken or beef broth instead of vegetable stock for a richer flavor.

- Replace margarine with olive oil or butter for a different taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Curried Couscous with Raisins can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. Serve in a decorative bowl or on a platter for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Curried Couscous with Raisins with a glass of white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with a slice of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

200

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 38g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 8g

Fats

- Total Fat: 2g

- Saturated Fat: 0g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 4g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 2%

- Vitamin C: 2%

- Calcium: 2%

- Iron: 6%

Alergens

Contains wheat (couscous) and may contain traces of nuts (raisins).

Summary

Curried Couscous with Raisins is a low-fat, low-calorie dish that is rich in carbohydrates and provides a good source of fiber. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to your diet.

Summary

Curried Couscous with Raisins is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a perfect balance of sweet and savory ingredients, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal any time of the year.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old box of recipes that belonged to my own grandmother. As I sifted through the yellowed index cards and tattered magazine clippings, a faded piece of paper caught my eye.

Curried Couscous with Raisins.

The title alone intrigued me. I had never made couscous before, let alone with curry and raisins. I carefully unfolded the paper, revealing a handwritten recipe that had been scribbled down in elegant cursive. It was dated over 50 years ago, and I could tell that it had been well-loved and used many times.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, memories flooded back to me. I remembered my grandmother standing in her tiny kitchen, the scent of spices filling the air as she prepared this dish for family gatherings and special occasions. The taste of the warm, fragrant couscous with plump raisins and the subtle heat of the curry lingered on my tastebuds.

I knew in that moment that I needed to recreate this recipe and pass it down to future generations. I gathered the necessary ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen, following the instructions with care and precision.

The first step was to cook the couscous according to package instructions. As the tiny grains absorbed the hot water and fluffed up, I could almost hear my grandmother's voice guiding me through the process. Next, I heated a pan and sautéed onions and garlic until they were golden and fragrant.

The scent of the spices filled the room as I added curry powder, cumin, and a pinch of cinnamon to the pan. The warm, earthy aromas of the spices brought back memories of family dinners and holiday feasts. I stirred in a generous amount of golden raisins, their sweetness balancing out the savory flavors of the dish.

Once the couscous was cooked and the spices had melded together, I combined the two in a large mixing bowl. The colors of the dish were vibrant and inviting, with the golden raisins glistening among the fluffy grains of couscous.

I took a tentative bite, savoring the rich flavors and textures of the dish. The sweetness of the raisins paired perfectly with the warm, spicy curry, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that danced on my tongue. I knew in that moment that this recipe was a keeper.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times for family dinners, potlucks, and special occasions. Each time I prepare it, I am transported back to that warm summer day when I discovered the recipe in my grandmother's old box of recipes.

I have shared the recipe with friends and loved ones, passing down the tradition of cooking and sharing good food with those closest to me. The simple act of preparing a meal can bring people together, creating lasting memories and connections that transcend time and space.

As I sit down to enjoy a steaming bowl of Curried Couscous with Raisins, I can't help but feel grateful for the rich tapestry of recipes and culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations. Each dish tells a story, a chapter in the book of my family's history and heritage.

And so, I will continue to cook and share these recipes, honoring the memory of my grandmother and the countless others who have taught me the joy of good food and good company. For in the kitchen, surrounded by the aromas of spices and the warmth of a well-loved recipe, I am truly at home.