Tunisian Couscous

Tunisian Couscous Recipe - Lamb and Vegetable Stew with Couscous

Region / culture: Tunisia | Servings: 8

Introduction

Tunisian Couscous is a traditional North African dish that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd. This dish is a staple in Tunisian cuisine and is often served at special occasions and family gatherings.

History

Couscous has been a staple food in North African cuisine for centuries, with roots dating back to the Berber people. The dish has evolved over time and has been influenced by various cultures, including Arab, Turkish, and French. Tunisian Couscous is a popular variation of this dish, known for its rich flavors and aromatic spices.

Ingredients

4 lb (1.81 kg) lamb, chopped
4 Large onion, chopped
0.5 cup olive oil
6 oz (170 g) tomato paste
2 Large tomatoes, chopped
1 tbsp cumin
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp curry powder
1 tsp cayenne
5 cloves garlic
salt, to taste
2 Medium bell pepper, chopped
1 Large butternut squash
4 Medium turnips, chopped
4 Medium carrot, stripped
1 lb (454 g) onion, finely chopped
1 lb (454 g) potatoes
2 cups Dry couscous, cooked
2 Medium green onion, chopped
3 Sprigs parsley, chopped
2 Medium lemons

How to prepare

In a large stewpot, brown the lamb and the first set of onions. Add tomato paste and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Add tomatoes, spices, green peppers, and reduce the heat to simmer. After 15 minutes, add the vegetables along with enough water to come within 3 inches of their tops. Cook until the meat and vegetables are tender. Serve on individual plates over couscous. Garnish with green onion, parsley, and lemons.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the lamb and add more vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, and chickpeas.
Add dried fruits such as raisins or apricots for a sweet and savory twist.
Experiment with different spices such as cinnamon, turmeric, or paprika for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Browning the lamb and onions before adding the other ingredients helps to develop a deep, rich flavor in the dish.

- Be sure to stir the tomato paste frequently to prevent it from burning.

- Adjust the amount of spices to suit your personal taste preferences.

- Allow the meat and vegetables to simmer slowly to ensure they are tender and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Tunisian Couscous can be served on its own as a complete meal, or paired with a side salad or bread for a more substantial spread. It is traditionally served family-style, with everyone digging in from a large communal platter.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making Tunisian Couscous is to allow the flavors to develop slowly over low heat. This dish benefits from a long, slow simmer to ensure that the meat and vegetables are tender and the spices are well-incorporated.

Ingredient Substitutions

If lamb is not available, you can use beef or chicken as a substitute. You can also customize the vegetables in this dish based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

Tunisian Couscous can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. The flavors will continue to develop as the dish sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Tunisian Couscous on a large platter garnished with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and a drizzle of olive oil. You can also sprinkle toasted almonds or pine nuts on top for added crunch and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Tunisian Couscous pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light red wine such as Pinot Noir. You can also serve it with mint tea for a traditional North African beverage.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Tunisian Couscous in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Tunisian Couscous contains approximately 600-700 calories, depending on portion size and ingredient variations. This dish is a filling and satisfying meal that provides a good balance of macronutrients.

Carbohydrates

Tunisian Couscous is a carbohydrate-rich dish due to the couscous, vegetables, and potatoes included in the recipe. Carbohydrates provide energy for the body and are an important part of a balanced diet.

Fats

The olive oil used in this recipe provides healthy fats that are essential for overall health. Fats help the body absorb vitamins and minerals, support cell growth, and provide energy.

Proteins

The lamb in this recipe is a good source of protein, which is important for building and repairing tissues in the body. Protein is also essential for maintaining muscle mass and supporting a healthy immune system.

Vitamins and minerals

Tunisian Couscous is packed with vitamins and minerals from the variety of vegetables included in the dish. Bell peppers, tomatoes, butternut squash, turnips, carrots, and potatoes all provide essential nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and fiber.

Alergens

This recipe contains lamb, which is a common allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies or sensitivities before preparing this dish.

Summary

Tunisian Couscous is a nutrient-dense dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a satisfying and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Tunisian Couscous is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for sharing with family and friends. This traditional North African recipe is packed with nutrients and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this hearty and aromatic dish as a comforting meal any time of year.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting a friend of mine who had just returned from a trip to Tunisia. She had brought back with her the most amazing flavors and spices, and as she demonstrated how to make Tunisian couscous, I couldn't help but be mesmerized by the intricate process.

I was always fascinated by different cuisines from around the world, and Tunisian cuisine was no exception. The rich blend of flavors and fragrances that filled the air as my friend cooked was unlike anything I had ever experienced before. I watched intently as she carefully measured out the spices, chopped the vegetables, and prepared the couscous, all the while explaining the importance of each ingredient and the traditional methods of cooking.

As she worked, I couldn't help but ask her about her journey to Tunisia and how she had come to learn this recipe. She shared with me the story of her travels, the people she had met, and the memories she had made along the way. She spoke of the bustling markets filled with colorful spices and fresh produce, the warm hospitality of the locals, and the joy of sharing meals with new friends.

Inspired by her tales, I knew that I had to learn how to make Tunisian couscous myself. I asked her to teach me, and she graciously agreed. We spent the rest of the day in her kitchen, cooking and laughing together as she guided me through each step of the process.

I learned that Tunisian couscous is a labor of love, a dish that requires time, patience, and care to prepare. The key to its delicious flavor lies in the careful balance of spices – a blend of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and paprika that creates a warm and aromatic base for the dish. The vegetables – carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers – are chopped and sautéed until tender, adding a burst of color and freshness to the couscous.

But perhaps the most important element of Tunisian couscous is the couscous itself. Made from semolina flour, couscous is steamed and fluffed until light and fluffy, creating a perfect base for the fragrant stew of vegetables and spices. As my friend showed me how to steam the couscous in a traditional couscousier, I marveled at the simplicity and beauty of this ancient cooking method.

As the couscous cooked, filling the kitchen with its warm and comforting aroma, my friend shared with me the significance of this dish in Tunisian culture. Tunisian couscous is not just a meal – it is a symbol of hospitality, family, and community. It is a dish that brings people together, creating a sense of unity and connection that transcends language and borders.

And as we sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor – a steaming bowl of Tunisian couscous, topped with tender vegetables and fragrant spices – I knew that I had found a new favorite recipe to add to my collection. The flavors of Tunisia filled my mouth, transporting me to a faraway land of bustling markets, warm hospitality, and delicious food.

From that day on, Tunisian couscous became a staple in my kitchen. I experimented with different variations – adding chickpeas, raisins, and almonds to create a dish that was uniquely my own. And with each bite, I was reminded of the joy of cooking, the beauty of sharing a meal with loved ones, and the power of food to connect us to the world around us.

So the next time you're looking for a new and exciting recipe to try, I urge you to give Tunisian couscous a chance. Let its warm and fragrant flavors transport you to a faraway land, where the sun shines bright, the spices are bold, and the hospitality is warm. And who knows – you might just discover a new favorite dish to share with your own friends and family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Bon appétit!