Embark on a culinary adventure with our Chad Couscous de Shari recipe, a delightful fusion of flavors from Chad, a country rich in cultural diversity and culinary heritage. This vibrant dish showcases the essence of Chadian cuisine, combining aromatic spices, hearty vegetables, and tender couscous grains to create a truly satisfying meal. Whether you're a seasoned chef or an adventurous home cook, this recipe promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the enchanting landscapes of Chad. Get ready to savor a symphony of flavors in every bite as we delve into the art of preparing Chad Couscous de Shari.

Ingredients:

For the Millet Couscous:

• 2 cups millet grains
• 3 cups water
• Salt to taste

For the Sauce or Stew:

• 2 tablespoons oil (palm oil for authenticity, or substitute with vegetable oil)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, or leafy greens
• Protein of choice (chicken, beef, lamb, or beans for a vegetarian option)
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

Instructions:

Prepare the Millet Couscous:

1- Rinse the millet grains thoroughly under cold water.

2- In a large pot, bring water to a boil.

3- Add salt to taste.

4- Stir in the rinsed millet grains.

5- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the millet is tender and has absorbed all the water.

6- Fluff the millet couscous with a fork and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce or Stew:

1- In a separate large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat.

2- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

3- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

4- Add the diced tomatoes and cook until they start to break down and release their juices.

5- Sprinkle in the ground ginger, coriander, and cumin, stirring well to combine.

6- If using, add your choice of vegetables and protein to the saucepan.

7- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, ensuring that the ingredients are submerged.

8- Season with salt and pepper to taste.

9- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Serve:

1- Spoon the cooked millet couscous onto serving plates or bowls.

2- Ladle the sauce or stew generously over the couscous.

3- Garnish with fresh herbs or chopped green onions, if desired.

4- Serve hot and enjoy the vibrant flavors of Chad Couscous de Shari!

This Chad Couscous de Shari recipe offers a delightful harmony of textures and tastes, making it a standout dish for any occasion. Revel in the warmth and hospitality of Chadian cuisine right in your own home. Bon appétit!

Nutritional Values:

Here's an approximate nutritional breakdown for the ingredients used in the Chad Couscous de Shari recipe:

Millet grains (2 cups):

• Calories: 756 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 158 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Fat: 6 g
• Fiber: 16 g

benefits:

• Excellent source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy.
• Rich in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and aiding in weight management.
• Contains essential minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese, supporting bone health and enzyme function.
• Good source of B vitamins, contributing to energy metabolism and nervous system function.

Water (3 cups): No significant nutritional value.

benefits:

• Essential for hydration, helping to maintain bodily functions and regulate body temperature.
• Supports digestion by aiding in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients.
• Promotes healthy skin, hair, and overall well-being.

Salt: No significant nutritional value.

benefits:

• Balances electrolytes and maintains fluid balance in the body.
• Enhances flavor in dishes when used in moderation.
• Provides essential sodium and chloride ions necessary for nerve function and muscle contraction.

Oil (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 18 g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 7 g
• No significant carbohydrates or protein

benefits:

• Source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which support heart health.
• Provides fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage.
• Adds richness and mouthfeel to dishes while enhancing flavor.

Onion (1 medium):

• Calories: 44 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Fiber: 2 g

benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids and quercetin, which may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.
• Contains prebiotic fibers that promote gut health and support the growth of beneficial bacteria.
• Adds flavor and aroma to dishes while providing essential nutrients such as vitamin C and potassium.

Tomatoes (2 medium):

• Calories: 44 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Fiber: 4 g

benefits:

• Excellent source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and collagen production.
• Rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant associated with reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease.
• Provides vitamins A and K, as well as potassium and folate, contributing to overall health and well-being.

Garlic (2 cloves):

• Calories: 8 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Fiber: 0 g

benefits:

• Contains sulfur compounds with potential health benefits, including immune support and cardiovascular protection.
• Exhibits antimicrobial properties, helping to fight infections and promote oral health.
• May have anti-inflammatory effects and contribute to improved blood circulation and cholesterol levels.

Ground ginger (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 6 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Fiber: 0 g

benefits:

• Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger may help alleviate muscle pain and reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis.
• Supports digestive health by promoting gastric motility and relieving nausea and indigestion.
• Contains antioxidants that protect against oxidative stress and may lower the risk of chronic diseases.

Ground coriander (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 5 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Fiber: 0 g

benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants, coriander may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
• Contains antimicrobial compounds that may help combat foodborne pathogens and promote gut health.
• Adds a unique flavor profile to dishes while contributing to overall health and well-being.

Ground cumin (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 8 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Fiber: 0 g

benefits:

• Source of iron, a mineral essential for oxygen transport in the blood and energy metabolism.
• Contains antioxidants such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which may help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.
• Adds depth of flavor and warmth to dishes, enhancing their aroma and taste.

Optional vegetables (carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, leafy greens): Nutritional values vary based on the specific vegetables used.

benefits:

• Provide essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber necessary for overall health and well-being.
• Contribute to a colorful and diverse diet, offering a wide range of nutrients and phytonutrients.
• Support various bodily functions, including immune function, digestion, and cellular repair.

Protein of choice (chicken, beef, lamb, beans):

• Nutritional values vary significantly based on the type and portion size of the protein chosen.

benefits:

• Essential for muscle repair and growth, providing amino acids necessary for protein synthesis.
• Supports immune function, hormone production, and enzyme activity throughout the body.
• Helps regulate appetite and promote satiety, aiding in weight management and blood sugar control.

Vegetable or chicken broth (4 cups):

• Nutritional values vary depending on the brand and recipe of the broth used.

benefits:

• Hydrating and low in calories, making it a suitable base for soups, stews, and sauces.
• Provides flavor and depth to dishes without the need for additional salt or seasoning.
• Contains vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes extracted from vegetables or chicken bones, supporting overall health and well-being.

These values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as cooking methods and specific ingredient brands.