A few months ago I was introduced to Couscous and I have been hooked ever since! It is amazing how tiny balls of grain could be so tasty and filling. Couscous is very healthy; full of protein, fiber, Vitamin A and iron. It also only takes 5 minutes to prepare in comparison to rice. Don’t get me wrong, I still have my rice and beans because I am Puerto Rican and I can’t give that up! 🙂 However, Couscous is a great substitute for rice when I’m in the mood for something quick.
This is a photo of Couscous with black beans salad taken from Allrecipes.com |
Couscous is Mediterranean style pasta made from 100% semolina wheat, (via neareast.com). It is versatile and can be used in salads, side dishes and even desserts. Personally, I buy the original Near East box of Couscous and I use it as a side dish as I would rice. Sometimes I put it in a wrap with chicken and vegetables. My favorite way to eat Couscous is on the side of my Tacos with black beans.
1. In a medium saucepan, bring water, salt, and butter or olive oil to just a boil.
2. Stir in the couscous;
3. Remove from heat; let stand 5 minutes (or until all liquid is absorbed).
4. Fluff couscous lightly with a fork before serving.
2. Add onion, pepper and garlic; cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Stir in remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes.
Please feel free to share your favorite recipe as well!
Gabie Ocasio, Motivational Mami Contributor and Northeast Family & Travel Contributing Columnist
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Leslie Limon says
That looks so good!!! And I haven’t had couscous in about 10 years. Can’t find it here in Mexico. 🙁
Bonnie Hernandez says
Great recipe and perfect as week night side dish. Thanks!
Maria Amelia says
The only way I could ever become a vegetarian is if there were frijole negros and couscous involved. You may be helping the cause here!
Bren @ Flanboyant Eats™ says
wow! just a few months ago! surely you know now it’s super duper easy to make! and healthy! I love it. and eve better with black beans! yum!
Gabrielle says
I’m so happy to receive such great feedback on my post! I love couscous and I love to introduce people to it, its delicious and so versatile!
Maria, I was a vegetarian while in Highschool & my first semester of college. I didn’t eat “vegetarian” food, mostly pizza & pasta. If I had known about couscous back then I might still be a vegetarian today! I might go back to being vegetarian for a little while to save some money, Meat can be expensive!
Ladies, please feel free to share any of your favorite couscous dishes, or some you come across that are interesting. I’m always looking for new things to try or review.