Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 cup chopped dates
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Fork
- Saucepan with lid
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the couscous, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom.
2. In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
3. Pour the boiling water over the couscous mixture and stir with a fork to combine.
4. Cover the mixing bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and let sit for 5-10 minutes, until the couscous has absorbed all the water.
5. Fluff the couscous with a fork and stir in the chopped dates and sliced almonds.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Time:
Preparation time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
Temperature:
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 4 people.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 190
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can substitute raisins or dried cranberries for the chopped dates.
- You can substitute chopped walnuts or pecans for the sliced almonds.
Variations:
- Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the couscous mixture for added sweetness.
- Stir in a handful of fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for added flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to fluff the couscous with a fork after it has absorbed all the water to prevent clumping.
- Toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before adding them to the couscous for added flavor.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover couscous in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the couscous in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the couscous in a large bowl or on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs or additional sliced almonds.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro
- Additional sliced almonds
Pairings:
- This dish pairs well with roasted chicken or grilled fish.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables, such as carrots or Brussels sprouts
- A simple green salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the couscous is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to store any leftover couscous in the refrigerator and discard after 3 days.
Food history:
- Couscous is a traditional North African dish made from semolina flour.
Flavor profiles:
- This dish is sweet and nutty, with warm spices like cinnamon and ginger.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the couscous as a side dish or as a main course with grilled vegetables or protein.
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Region: Middle Eastern