Couscous

5 from 1 vote

Couscous is fast, simple, and so versatile! Enjoy it plain or mix in herbs, dried fruit, or nuts for extra flavor—ready in no time!

Prep Time10

Steaming5

Total Time15

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: Healthy, Vegan, Vegetarian

Keyword: couscous

Servings: servings, as a side

Author: Chelsea Lords

Cost: $3.56

Equipment

Medium pot

Ingredients

For Plain Couscous

1 cup couscous see note 1
1 cup chicken stock or vegetable stock; water will also work
2 teaspoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt

Add for a Jazzed-Up Couscous

3 tablespoons finely chopped herbs I like a combo of cilantro and flat-leaf parsley
1 large lemon
1/4 cup diced dried apricots or currants or golden raisins, packed (or a combo of all!)
2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts see note 2

US - Metric

Instructions

In a medium pot, bring the stock/broth, salt, and oil to a boil over high heat. Once it’s boiling, remove from heat and stir in the couscous. Press in an even layer, then cover pot with a tight-fitting lid (or secure plastic wrap on top). Let sit and steam for 5 minutes. After 5 minutes, remove the lid and use a fork to fluff the couscous and break up any clumps.
Jazz it up (optional): If desired, add all (or some) of the options for jazzed-up couscous. For the lemon, I recommend 1/2 tsp zest and 2 tbsp juice. Gently stir through. Keep warm until ready to use.

Notes

Note 1: This recipe method only works for small-grain, also known as Moroccan couscous. This method won’t work with larger (pearl) couscous or any other type of grain.

Note 2: Toast pine nuts for the best flavor and texture! To toast pine nuts, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently and watch closely, as they can burn easily. Toast pine nuts for about 3–5 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly before stirring in the couscous.

Storage: Store cooked Couscous in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove with a bit of water or broth to refresh the texture.

Nutrition