Pearl Couscous With Almonds And Raisins
Pearl Couscous With Almonds And Raisins- A perfect choice for vegetarians and not only. This is a side dish that can be served with meats or fish.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 455kcal
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter divided
- ½ cup sliced almonds or pine nuts
- ½ cup onion finely chopped
- 1½ cups pearl couscous
- ½ large cinnamon stick
- 1 fresh or dried bay leaf
- 1¾ cups water
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup parsley minced
- zest of ½ lemon
- ¼ cup raisins
Instructions
- Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat.
- Add almonds or pine nuts and stir until golden brown. Then transfer to a small bowl.
- Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in the same pan over medium heat.
- Add onion and sauté until golden.
- Then add the couscous, the cinnamon stick, bay leaf, and often stir until couscous is lightly brown.
- Pour the water, add the salt, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce to low heat, cover, and simmer until the liquid is absorbed and the couscous is tender, about 12-14 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the parsley, almonds, lemon zest, and raisins.
- Serve.
Notes
Variations to the recipe:
- Vegan option: Replace butter with olive oil or vegan butter.
- Nut-free: Omit almonds or replace them with pine nuts or other nuts you like.
- Add protein: Stir in cooked chickpeas or shredded chicken.
- Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or mint for a refreshing note.
- Citrus: Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
- Dried fruits: Swap raisins for dried cherries or cranberries for a tart twist.
- Cooking tip: Ensure couscous is al dente to retain a slightly chewy texture.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 455kcal | Carbohydrates: 65g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 26mg | Sodium: 518mg | Potassium: 359mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 9g | Vitamin A: 585IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 67mg | Iron: 2mg
