Whole Wheat Couscous Recipe: A Nutritious and Flavorful Dish for Every Occasion
Guide or Summary：Whole Wheat CouscousIngredientsInstructionsNutritional BenefitsCouscous, a staple in the Mediterranean diet, is a versatile and comforting……
Guide or Summary：
Couscous, a staple in the Mediterranean diet, is a versatile and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. However, traditional couscous is often made with refined grains, which can be lacking in essential nutrients. This is where whole wheat couscous comes in, offering a healthier alternative that is just as delicious. In this article, we will explore a tantalizing whole wheat couscous recipe that is not only nutritious but also packed with flavor.
Whole Wheat Couscous
Whole wheat couscous is made from whole wheat flour, which means it includes the germ, bran, and endosperm of the wheat kernel. This gives it a higher fiber content and a more robust, nutty flavor compared to its refined counterpart. By choosing whole wheat couscous, you are not only enhancing your diet with essential nutrients but also supporting a more sustainable and environmentally friendly food choice.
Ingredients
To make a mouthwatering whole wheat couscous dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of whole wheat couscous
- 2 cups of water or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh mint
- 1/2 cup of chopped dried apricots
- 1/2 cup of chopped roasted almonds
- 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Begin by rinsing the whole wheat couscous under cold water to remove any excess starch. This step is crucial as it helps prevent the couscous from becoming too sticky.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of salt to the boiling liquid.
3. Add the rinsed whole wheat couscous to the boiling water and stir well. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the couscous is tender.
4. While the couscous is cooking, prepare the spices and garnishes. In a small bowl, mix together 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of ground coriander, 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper.
5. Once the couscous is done, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. This allows the couscous to absorb any remaining liquid and become even more tender.
6. Fluff the couscous with a fork and transfer it to a large serving bowl. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the couscous and toss gently to combine.
7. Add the chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, and mint to the couscous, along with 1/2 cup of chopped dried apricots, 1/2 cup of chopped roasted almonds, and 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese (if using). Toss everything together until well combined.
8. Serve the whole wheat couscous warm or at room temperature. This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Nutritional Benefits
Whole wheat couscous is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It is a good source of fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and zinc. By choosing whole wheat couscous over its refined counterpart, you are making a healthier choice that can contribute to a balanced and nutritious diet.
In conclusion, this whole wheat couscous recipe is a delightful and nutritious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavor and hearty texture make it a favorite among many, while its health benefits make it a smart choice for your diet. So, why not give this whole wheat couscous recipe a try and enjoy the delicious and nourishing results?