Check out this vegetarian Moroccan spiced couscous recipe
Couscous, a staple in North African cuisine, has gained popularity worldwide for its versatility and ease of preparation. Originating from the Maghreb region, this dish is traditionally made with semolina wheat and can be flavored with a variety of spices and vegetables. Moroccan spiced couscous is known for its aromatic spices and colorful presentation. With no further ado, let's get cooking!s
Gather the following ingredients
For this vegetarian dish, assemble one cup couscous, two cups vegetable broth, a tablespoon olive oil, half a teaspoon salt, one teaspoon cumin, half a teaspoon coriander, one-quarter teaspoon cinnamon, one diced red onion, two minced garlic cloves, one cup each of diced carrots and chopped bell peppers, half a cup raisins or dried apricots (chopped), and cilantro to garnish.
Prepare the vegetables
Start by warming the olive oil in a sizable pan over medium heat. Introduce the diced red onion and minced garlic, sauteing until they soften and turn translucent. Following this, blend in the carrots and bell peppers. Continue to cook the vegetables together, ensuring they become tender yet maintain a bit of their natural crispness for texture.
Spice it up
Once the vegetables are sauteed, it's time to add the spices. Sprinkle in the cumin, coriander, and a hint of cinnamon. Season with salt to your liking. Cook these for a minute, just until the spices become fragrant. This step is essential as it ensures the couscous will be thoroughly imbued with the rich flavors of the aromatic spices.
Cook couscous
Bring two cups of vegetable broth to a boil in a pot. Stir in one cup of couscous, ensuring it's evenly mixed. Immediately remove the pot from heat and cover it with a lid or foil. Allow the couscous to steam for five minutes, during which it will soak up the broth and become fluffy, ready for serving.
Combine and serve
Use a fork to fluff the steamed couscous, then incorporate it into the pan with the aromatic spiced vegetables. Fold in either raisins or chopped dried apricots, ensuring ingredients are well combined for uniform flavor. To finish, lavish with fresh cilantro, adding a burst of color and taste. Serve this warm, delightful dish as a hearty main or as an accompaniment to other meals.
