Discover the secrets to making traditional couscous with this easy-to-follow recipe. Steamed semolina wheat granules are paired with flavorful meat, fresh vegetables, and a spicy sauce to create a delicious, hearty meal. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this authentic couscous recipe brings a taste of North Africa to your table. Get step-by-step instructions and tips for achieving perfectly fluffy couscous every time.

Ingredients:

For the Couscous:

 - 2 cups couscous

 - 2 cups water or broth

 - 2 tbsp olive oil

 - 1/2 tsp salt

For the Meat and Vegetables:

 - 1 lb meat (lamb or chicken), cut into chunks

 - 1 large onion, chopped

 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

 - 2 carrots, peeled and sliced

 - 2 zucchinis, sliced

 - 1 cup chickpeas, cooked

 - 1 cup tomatoes, chopped

 - 2 tbsp olive oil

 - 1 tsp ground cumin

 - 1 tsp ground coriander

 - 1/2 tsp paprika

 - 1/2 tsp ground turmeric

 - Salt and pepper to taste

 - 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

For the Spicy Sauce:

 - 1/4 cup harissa (or to taste)

 - 1/2 cup water

 - 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

Prepare the Couscous:

 - In a large pot, bring the water or broth to a boil.

 - Stir in the couscous, olive oil, and salt.

 - Remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes.

 - Fluff with a fork before serving.

Cook the Meat and Vegetables:

 - In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

 - Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.

 - Add the meat and cook until browned on all sides.

 - Stir in the carrots, zucchinis, tomatoes, chickpeas, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper.

 - Cover and cook on low heat for 30-40 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Prepare the Spicy Sauce:

 - In a small bowl, mix the harissa, water, and lemon juice.

 - Adjust the spiciness to your preference.

Serve:

 - Spoon the couscous onto plates or a serving dish.

 - Top with the meat and vegetable mixture.

 - Drizzle with the spicy sauce and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful and authentic couscous meal!

Nutritional values 

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients for your couscous dish with meat and vegetables, including their benefits:

For the Couscous:

2 cups couscous

 - Calories: Approximately 360 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 72g

Benefits: Provides a quick source of carbohydrates and is a versatile base for many dishes.

2 cups water or broth

 - Benefits: Adds moisture and flavor. Broth adds extra flavor and nutrients.

- 2 tbsp olive oil

 - Calories: Approximately 240 kcal

 - Fat: 28g

Benefits: Provides healthy fats, supports heart health, and adds flavor.

1/2 tsp salt

Benefits: Enhances flavor. Use in moderation to manage sodium intake.

For the Meat and Vegetables:

1 lb meat (lamb or chicken), cut into chunks

 - Calories: Approximately 400-600 kcal (depending on meat type)

 - Protein: 30-40g

Benefits: Provides high-quality protein and essential nutrients.

1 large onion, chopped

 - Calories: Approximately 45 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 11g

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and vitamins, supporting heart health and digestion.

2 cloves garlic, minced

 - Calories: Approximately 27 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 6g

Benefits: Adds flavor and has anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

2 carrots, peeled and sliced

 - Calories: Approximately 30 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 7g

Benefits: Rich in beta-carotene, supporting eye health and immunity.

2 zucchinis, sliced

 - Calories: Approximately 33 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 7g

Benefits: Low in calories, provides vitamins and minerals, and adds texture.

1 cup chickpeas, cooked

 - Calories: Approximately 130 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 22g

Benefits: High in protein and fiber, supports digestive health and provides sustained energy.

1 cup tomatoes, chopped

 - Calories: Approximately 30 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 7g

Benefits: Rich in vitamins C and A, antioxidants, and supports heart health.

2 tbsp olive oil

 - Calories: Approximately 240 kcal

 - Fat: 28g

Benefits: Provides healthy fats, supports heart health, and adds flavor.

1 tsp ground cumin

 - Calories: Approximately 8 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Adds flavor and has antioxidant and digestive benefits.

1 tsp ground coriander

 - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Adds flavor and supports digestion and immune function.

1/2 tsp paprika

 - Calories: Approximately 6 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Adds color and flavor, with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

1/2 tsp ground turmeric

 - Calories: Approximately 8 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1.5g

Benefits: Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Salt and pepper to taste

Benefits: Enhances flavor. Use in moderation to manage sodium intake.

1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

 - Calories: Approximately 1 kcal per tablespoon

Benefits: Provides vitamins A, C, and K, and supports digestion and overall health.

For the Spicy Sauce:

1/4 cup harissa (or to taste)

 - Calories: Approximately 30 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 3g

Benefits: Adds spice and flavor. Contains chili peppers, which have antioxidants.

1/2 cup water

Benefits: Adds moisture and helps blend the sauce ingredients.

1 tbsp lemon juice

 - Calories: Approximately 4 kcal

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Provides vitamin C and adds a tangy flavor.

This combination of ingredients will create a flavorful and balanced dish, with each component contributing essential nutrients and enhancing the overall taste.