Moroccan-Style Pearl Couscous with Vegetables Recipe

How to Cook a Moroccan-Style Pearl Couscous with Vegetables

If you're looking to explore the rich and aromatic flavors of Moroccan cuisine, this recipe for Moroccan-style pearl couscous with vegetables is the perfect place to start. Combining the unique texture of pearl couscous with a medley of vibrant vegetables and traditional Moroccan spices, this dish is a true delight for the senses.

At the heart of this recipe lies the star ingredient: pearl couscous. Also known as Israeli couscous or maftoul, pearl couscous is a type of pasta made from wheat flour. Unlike traditional couscous, which has a finer texture, pearl couscous is larger and round in shape, resembling tiny pearls. 

Elevating Your Culinary Experience

To ensure the best results for this recipe, we recommend using  pearl couscous of Riceselect is known for its high-quality grains and commitment to delivering exceptional taste and texture. Their pearl couscous is no exception, offering a delightful mouthfeel and a rich, nutty flavor.

With Riceselect Pearl Couscous, you can elevate your culinary experience and enjoy the authentic Moroccan flavors in every bite. You can find this exceptional product here and start creating delicious dishes like this Moroccan-style pearl couscous with vegetables.

Ingredients:

1 cup Riceselect Pearl Couscous

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 onion, diced

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 zucchini, diced

1 carrot, diced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups vegetable broth

Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent and fragrant.

Step 2

Add the diced red bell pepper, zucchini, and carrot to the saucepan. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.

Step 3

Sprinkle the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper over the vegetables. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.

Step 4

Add the Riceselect Pearl Couscous to the saucepan and stir to combine with the vegetables and spices.

Step 5

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pearl couscous is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6

Once the pearl couscous is cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 7

Fluff the couscous with a fork and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper if needed.

Step 8

Transfer the Moroccan-style pearl couscous with vegetables to a serving dish and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a vibrant touch.

The Health Benefits of Pearl Couscous

Aside from its delicious taste and versatility in various recipes, pearl couscous also offers several health benefits. Being a whole grain, it is a good source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients. It provides sustained energy, helps maintain healthy digestion, and contributes to overall heart health.

Pearl couscous contains selenium, an important mineral that acts as an antioxidant, protecting the body against oxidative stress and supporting a strong immune system. It is also a source of B vitamins, iron, and magnesium, which play vital roles in maintaining optimal health.

Secrets to Enhance the Flavor

Toast the pearl couscous before cooking: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and add the dry pearl couscous. Stir continuously for a few minutes until the couscous turns golden brown. This step adds a nutty flavor to the dish.

Use homemade vegetable broth: Making your own vegetable broth allows you to control the flavors and reduce sodium content. Simmer vegetables like carrots, onions, celery, and herbs in water for about an hour. Strain and use the flavorful broth in the recipe.

Incorporate preserved lemon: Traditional Moroccan cuisine often includes preserved lemons for their unique tangy flavor. Finely chop preserved lemon rinds and add them to the couscous during cooking for a delightful citrusy twist.

Serving and Variations

This Moroccan-style pearl couscous with vegetables is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a satisfying vegetarian main course or as a flavorful side dish. Here are a few serving and variation ideas to explore:

Serve it with grilled chicken or lamb: Pair this couscous with grilled chicken or lamb skewers marinated in Moroccan spices for a complete and hearty meal.

Add protein: For an extra protein boost, toss in cooked chickpeas or diced tofu during the final stages of cooking. They will complement the flavors and provide added texture.

Customize the vegetables: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on your preference or seasonal availability. Eggplant, butternut squash, or green beans can all be delicious additions.

Drizzle with lemon-infused olive oil: Just before serving, drizzle a bit of lemon-infused olive oil over the couscous to enhance the flavors and add a citrusy touch.

Proper Storage and Reheating Tips

• If you have leftovers, it's essential to store them properly to maintain their freshness. Here's how:

• Allow the couscous to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

• Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to the couscous to prevent it from drying out. Heat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Indulge in the exotic flavors of Morocco with our Moroccan-style pearl couscous with vegetables recipe. This delightful dish combines the chewy texture of pearl couscous with a fragrant blend of spices and fresh vegetables, creating a harmony of flavors that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Marrakech.

With the added health benefits of pearl couscous, you can savor this meal knowing you're nourishing your body as well. So, grab a fork and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

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