Discover how to make perfectly fluffy couscous with our easy-to-follow recipe. Steamed granules of durum wheat, couscous is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with meat or vegetable stews. Learn the steps to achieve the ideal texture and flavor for this traditional North African staple.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup couscous

- 1 cup water or chicken/vegetable broth

- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

Instructions:

Boil the Liquid: In a medium saucepan, bring the water or broth to a boil. Add the salt and olive oil or butter.

Add the Couscous: Stir in the couscous, ensuring it’s evenly distributed in the liquid.

Cover and Steam: Remove the saucepan from heat and cover with a lid. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the couscous to absorb the liquid and steam.

Fluff the Couscous: After 5 minutes, uncover and use a fork to fluff the couscous gently, breaking up any clumps.

Serve: Serve warm as a side dish or base for your favorite meat or vegetable stew. Enjoy!

Feel free to customize the couscous by adding herbs, spices, or vegetables to suit your taste!

Nutritional Values:

Couscous:

- Calories: 176

- Protein: 6 grams

- Carbohydrates: 36 grams

- Fiber: 2 grams

- Fat: 0.3 grams

- Iron: 1.1 mg (6% DV)

- Magnesium: 31 mg (8% DV)

- Vitamin B6: 0.1 mg (6% DV)

Benefits:

- High in carbohydrates, providing a good source of energy.

- Contains protein, which helps with muscle repair and growth.

- Provides fiber, supporting digestive health.

- Rich in iron and magnesium, essential for red blood cell production and bone health.

Water or Chicken/Vegetable Broth:

- Water: Zero calories, no nutrients.

- Chicken Broth: Calories: 12, Protein: 1 gram, Fat: 0 grams, Carbohydrates: 1 gram (values can vary based on brand and preparation).

- Vegetable Broth: Calories: 12, Protein: 1 gram, Fat: 0 grams, Carbohydrates: 2 grams (values can vary based on brand and preparation).

Benefits:

- Water is essential for maintaining bodily functions and hydration.

- Broth adds flavor and some nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, depending on the broth’s ingredients.

Olive Oil or Butter:

- Olive Oil: Calories: 119, Fat: 13.5 grams (Saturated Fat: 1.9 grams), Monounsaturated Fat: 9.8 grams, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.0 grams.

- Butter: Calories: 102, Fat: 11.5 grams (Saturated Fat: 7.2 grams), Monounsaturated Fat: 3 grams, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3 grams.

Benefits:

- Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy, and contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

- Butter provides vitamins A, D, E, and K but should be consumed in moderation due to higher saturated fat content.

Salt

- Sodium: 1,150 mg (50% DV)

Benefits:

- Sodium is essential for fluid balance and nerve function, but should be consumed in moderation to avoid high blood pressure.

Incorporating these ingredients into your couscous dish adds nutritional value and contributes to a balanced diet.