Lavender Pearl Couscous with Figs

Lavender Pearl Couscous with Figs Recipe - Vegetarian Food

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Lavender Pearl Couscous with Figs is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the delicate floral notes of lavender with the sweetness of fresh figs. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a fancy dinner party.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional couscous dishes, incorporating the use of lavender and figs for a more sophisticated flavor profile. Lavender has been used in cooking for centuries, known for its calming aroma and subtle taste. Figs, on the other hand, add a natural sweetness and texture to the dish.

Ingredients

0.25 cup sherry vinegar
2 tbsp brown sugar
4 fresh figs, stems trimmed and quartered
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 medium-sized onion, minced
1 tsp dried lavender flowers
1 cup toasted pearl couscous
1.5 cup boiling water
salt to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
2 tsp chopped fresh thyme plus a sprig for garnish
freshly ground black pepper to taste

How to prepare

1. In a saucepan, combine sherry vinegar and brown sugar. Bring to a boil over high heat. Add the figs, reduce heat to low, and cook for 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.
2. Heat butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the onion and lavender. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring often, until the onion is tender.
3. Add couscous to the saucepan and stir until well coated with butter. Pour in water and salt. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to very low, cover, and cook for 12 minutes. Stir in parsley, thyme, figs, and pepper. Add more salt if needed. Garnish and serve.

Variations

Add toasted pine nuts or almonds for extra crunch.
Substitute dried cranberries or apricots for the figs.
Use quinoa or farro instead of pearl couscous for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to toast the pearl couscous before cooking to enhance its nutty flavor.

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

- Adjust the amount of lavender to suit your taste preferences, as it can be quite strong.

- Use fresh figs for the best flavor, but dried figs can also be used in a pinch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Lavender Pearl Couscous with Figs as a side dish to grilled chicken or fish. It also pairs well with a simple green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the pearl couscous before cooking helps to enhance its nutty flavor and prevent it from becoming mushy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have sherry vinegar, you can use balsamic vinegar or red wine vinegar as a substitute. You can also use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the figs and couscous mixture ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Just make sure to add the fresh herbs and seasonings right before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with a sprig of fresh thyme for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve it in a decorative bowl or platter for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir. It also goes well with sparkling water or lemonade.

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

Calories: 220 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 35g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 6g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 4g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 2mg per serving

Calcium: 30mg per serving

Vitamin C: 5mg per serving

Alergens

Contains dairy (butter)

Summary

This dish is a good source of carbohydrates and fats, with a moderate amount of protein. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, and vitamin C.

Summary

Lavender Pearl Couscous with Figs is a sophisticated and flavorful dish that combines the unique flavors of lavender, figs, and pearl couscous. With a balance of sweet and savory flavors, this dish is sure to impress your guests and elevate any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Lavender Pearl Couscous with Figs. It was a warm, sunny day in Provence, France, and I was wandering through a bustling farmer's market, taking in the sights and smells of fresh produce and local delicacies. As I made my way through the market, my eyes were drawn to a small stand tucked away in a corner, where an elderly woman was selling jars of fragrant lavender and baskets of ripe, juicy figs.

Intrigued by the combination of these two ingredients, I struck up a conversation with the woman, who introduced herself as Madame Claudette. She explained to me that lavender and figs are a traditional pairing in Provencal cuisine, and she shared with me her recipe for Lavender Pearl Couscous with Figs, a dish that she had learned from her own grandmother many years ago.

Madame Claudette's eyes sparkled as she described the dish to me, her voice filled with passion and nostalgia. She told me how the floral notes of the lavender infused the couscous with a delicate aroma, while the sweet, earthy flavor of the figs added a rich depth to the dish. She explained that the key to making the recipe truly spectacular was to use the freshest, highest quality ingredients, and to infuse the couscous with the lavender by steeping it in hot water before cooking.

I was captivated by Madame Claudette's story and her enthusiasm for this recipe, and I knew that I had to try it for myself. I purchased a jar of her fragrant lavender and a basket of figs, and headed back to my rented cottage to begin cooking.

As I followed Madame Claudette's instructions, I was transported back to that bustling market in Provence, the scent of lavender filling my kitchen and the sweet, juicy figs reminding me of the warm sun on my skin. The couscous cooked to fluffy perfection, infused with the subtle floral notes of the lavender, and the figs caramelized in the oven, releasing their sweet, sticky juices.

When I finally sat down to eat, I was amazed by the complexity of flavors in this seemingly simple dish. The lavender added a unique, almost ethereal quality to the couscous, while the figs provided a burst of sweetness and a hint of earthiness. Each bite was a delight for the senses, and I savored every mouthful, feeling grateful for the chance encounter that had led me to this culinary treasure.

Since that day in Provence, Lavender Pearl Couscous with Figs has become a beloved staple in my cooking repertoire. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on Madame Claudette's tradition of using the freshest, highest quality ingredients to create a dish that is both simple and sophisticated.

As I sit here now, in my cozy kitchen, surrounded by the scent of lavender and the memories of that sunny day in Provence, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary journey that has brought me to this moment. And as I take one last bite of my Lavender Pearl Couscous with Figs, I can't help but smile, knowing that this recipe will continue to bring joy and delight to all who taste it.