Best Algerian Saffron Raisin Couscous With Fresh Mint Recipes

facebook share image   twitter share image   pinterest share image   E-Mail share image

MINTED COUSCOUS



Minted Couscous image

Provided by Sunny Anderson

Categories     side-dish

Time 15m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 cup couscous
1 clove garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested
1 scallion, finely chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 cup chicken stock
1 tablespoon butter
8 to 10 fresh mint leaves, chopped
1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil

Steps:

  • In a bowl, stir together the couscous, garlic, lemon zest, scallions, a pinch of salt and a grind or 2 of pepper. In a pot on high heat, bring the chicken stock and butter to a boil. Immediately pour over the couscous mixture, then quickly cover tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. Let sit for 5 minutes. Add the mint, fluff with a fork and stir in the olive oil. Serve warm.

ALGERIAN COUSCOUS



Algerian Couscous image

This recipe is made with mutton and chicken, but you can easily change the meats for lamb and/or merguez. I make this often and my family loves it!

Provided by Natacha Pellerin

Categories     Soups, Stews and Chili Recipes     Stews

Time 1h42m

Yield 10

Number Of Ingredients 21

¼ cup olive oil, or more as needed, divided
8 mutton chops, fat removed
4 chicken drumsticks
1 pinch salt and ground black pepper to taste
3 onions, quartered
water to cover
2 tablespoons ground turmeric
2 tablespoons ground cumin
2 tablespoons ground coriander
3 potatoes, cut into chunks
3 turnips, cut into chunks
3 carrots, sliced lengthwise and cut into chunks
1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
2 tablespoons ras el hanout
1 (7 ounce) can chickpeas, drained
2 zucchini, sliced lengthwise and cut into chunks
5 sprigs cilantro, chopped
3 cups water
2 cups couscous
1 tablespoon butter
3 tablespoons harissa

Steps:

  • Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season mutton chops and chicken drumsticks with salt and pepper; cook in batches with onions in the hot oil until browned, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a large plate.
  • Scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release browned bits. Return mutton chops and chicken to the pot. Pour in enough water to cover; add turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium; simmer for 20 minutes.
  • Stir potatoes, turnips, and carrots into the pot. Simmer, covered, until vegetables start to soften, about 10 minutes. Mix in tomato paste and ras el hanout; cook for 10 minutes. Stir in chickpeas, zucchini, and cilantro; continue cooking, covered, until zucchini is tender, about 5 minutes.
  • Bring 3 cups water to a boil in a saucepan; remove from heat and stir in couscous and butter. Cover saucepan and let stand until water is absorbed completely, 5 to 10 minutes. Fluff couscous with a fork and stir in 1 tablespoon olive oil. Transfer to a serving dish.
  • Ladle 2 scoops of cooking liquid into a bowl; mix in harissa until smooth.
  • Scoop vegetables onto a serving plate. Scoop mutton and chicken onto a separate plate. Serve alongside couscous, harissa sauce, and remaining cooking liquid in the pot.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 492.3 calories, Carbohydrate 57.3 g, Cholesterol 72.1 mg, Fat 15.8 g, Fiber 8.3 g, Protein 30.5 g, SaturatedFat 4.1 g, Sodium 358.4 mg, Sugar 7 g

SAFFRON COUSCOUS



Saffron Couscous image

A light side dish or a great lunch box salad. The addition of saffron makes it just interesting enough!

Provided by toastyfrenchy

Categories     Side Dish

Time 50m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 11

2 tablespoons warm water
5 saffron threads, or more to taste
1 cup couscous
1 cup vegetable broth
1 celery stalk, diced
¼ cup dried currants
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon harissa, or to taste
½ teaspoon ground cumin
sea salt to taste

Steps:

  • Combine warm water and saffron together in a bowl.
  • Mix couscous and vegetable broth together in a saucepan; bring to a boil. Remove saucepan from heat, cover saucepan, and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff couscous with a fork and transfer to a bowl.
  • Stir saffron mixture, celery, currants, olive oil, lemon juice, harissa, cumin, and sea salt into couscous. Refrigerate until chilled, at least 30 minutes.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 264.1 calories, Carbohydrate 42.7 g, Fat 7.3 g, Fiber 3.4 g, Protein 6.3 g, SaturatedFat 1 g, Sodium 236.3 mg, Sugar 7.2 g

MINT COUSCOUS WITH RAISINS AND ALMONDS



Mint Couscous With Raisins and Almonds image

This is a recipe for those who enjoy Morrocan inspired dishes and/or those who favor mint. It's lovely along with chicken or shrimp.

Provided by Annacia

Categories     Moroccan

Time 35m

Yield 4-6 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 8

2 1/2 cups water, boiling
8 mint herbal tea bags
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup couscous
1/2 cup raisins
1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped

Steps:

  • In a saucepan, add water and tea bags, steep for 10 minutes.
  • Remove tea bags; add olive oil, salt and combine until mixed.
  • In a large bowl, place couscous and cover with mint tea mixture.
  • Cover and let stand about 20 minutes.
  • Remove cover and fluff with a fork; add raisins, almonds and fresh mint. Toss well before serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 276.3, Fat 6, SaturatedFat 0.6, Sodium 591, Carbohydrate 49.3, Fiber 3.7, Sugar 11.1, Protein 7.5

Are you curently on diet or you just want to control your food's nutritions, ingredients? We will help you find recipes by cooking method, nutrition, ingredients...
Check it out »

You'll also love

Quick Cranberry Chutney_image Quick Cranberry Chutney

Cereal Squares_image Cereal Squares

Sun-Dried Tomato, Garlic, and Jalapeño Pasta_image Sun Dried Tomato, Garlic, and Jalapeño Pasta

Crispy Traditional Potato Pancakes_image Crispy Traditional Potato Pancakes

Chicken Salad Avocado_image Chicken Salad Avocado

Mexican-Style Pickled Vegetables_image Mexican Style Pickled Vegetables

Chicken Chunks_image Chicken Chunks

Best Ever Rum Balls_image Best Ever Rum Balls

White-Chocolate-Mint Mousse_image White Chocolate Mint Mousse

Dark Chocolate Ganache Pie with a Biscoff Cookie Crust Recipe - (4.4/5)_image Dark Chocolate Ganache Pie with a Biscoff Cookie Crust Recipe (4.4/5)

French Onion Soup with Meatballs (or Not)_image French Onion Soup with Meatballs (or Not)

Very Veggie Omelet_image Very Veggie Omelet

Orange and Balsamic Chicken_image Orange and Balsamic Chicken

Simple & Creamy Tortellini Alfredo_image Simple & Creamy Tortellini Alfredo

New Orleans Steamer_image New Orleans Steamer

Sweet Potato Muffins with Pecan Streusel_image Sweet Potato Muffins with Pecan Streusel

Hazelnut Lace Sandwich Cookies_image Hazelnut Lace Sandwich Cookies

Broiled Shark with Pesto Trapanese_image Broiled Shark with Pesto Trapanese

Bow Ties With Sausage and Sweet Peppers_image Bow Ties With Sausage and Sweet Peppers

Luau Burgers_image Luau Burgers

Algerian saffron raisin couscous with fresh mint is a traditional dish that has become hugely popular all over the world. It is a vegetarian dish that primarily consists of couscous, raisins, saffron, fresh mint, and other spices.

Origins

Couscous is a staple food in North Africa and is typically served with a variety of vegetables, meat or fish. It is said to have originated from the Berbers, who are the indigenous inhabitants of North Africa. Berbers were primarily nomadic herders and farmers, and it was essential to have easily transportable food. Couscous provided a perfect solution to this as it was easy to store and prepare.

The recipe

To prepare Algerian saffron raisin couscous with fresh mint, you will require several ingredients, including couscous, saffron, raisins, onion, garlic, cumin powder, cinnamon, fresh mint, olive oil, and vegetable stock.
Step 1 - Preparing the couscous
The first step is to prepare the couscous by placing it in a large bowl and adding olive oil, saffron, and salt. Mix well until the couscous is thoroughly coated with oil, then add the vegetable stock. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and set aside for 10-15 minutes to allow the couscous to absorb the liquid.
Step 2 - Preparing the raisins
Next, soak the raisins in hot water for about 10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Step 3 - Adding spices
In a large pan or pot, heat olive oil, and sauté onions and garlic. Next, add cumin powder, cinnamon, and salt, and mix well until fragrant.
Step 4 - Combining ingredients
Add the soaked raisins to the pan and stir for a few more minutes, then add the couscous and mix well. Finally, add fresh mint and mix one last time before serving.

Health benefits

Algerian saffron raisin couscous with fresh mint is an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The couscous itself is a complex carbohydrate that provides sustained energy, while saffron has been shown to have potential health benefits, including improving mood, reducing anxiety, and relieving PMS symptoms. Raisins are also rich in antioxidants, and fresh mint has proven health benefits such as reducing inflammation and improving digestion.

Conclusion

Algerian saffron raisin couscous with fresh mint is a delicious and healthy vegetarian dish that can be enjoyed by anyone. It is easy to prepare and can be easily customized to personal taste preferences. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed as a main meal, this traditional Algerian recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Valuable Tips for Making Algerian Saffron Raisin Couscous with Fresh Mint Recipes

Algerian saffron raisin couscous with fresh mint is a traditional dish that is popular in North Africa. This dish is not only delicious but also very nutritious, as it is packed with different nutrient-rich ingredients like couscous and saffron. Preparing this dish may seem complicated at first, but with the right tips and tricks, you can make it like a pro. Here are some valuable tips for making Algerian saffron raisin couscous with fresh mint recipes.

Tip #1: Use High-Quality Saffron

Saffron is one of the essential ingredients in Algerian saffron raisin couscous with fresh mint recipes. Therefore, it is crucial to use high-quality saffron for the best results. You can find saffron in most grocery stores, but make sure to check the quality before purchasing. High-quality saffron should have a bright red color, be dry to the touch, and have a strong aroma. Avoid buying saffron that has a dull color, is soft, or smells musty.
Tip #1.1: How to Store Saffron
Proper storage of saffron is essential to preserve its freshness and flavor. You should store saffron in an airtight container in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cabinet. Otherwise, exposure to light, heat, and air can reduce its potency and flavor. Avoid storing saffron in the fridge as moisture can damage it.

Tip #2: Use Authentic Algerian Raisins

Raisins are another ingredient used in Algerian saffron raisin couscous with fresh mint recipes. Choose authentic Algerian raisins for the best results as they have a particular flavor and aroma. Algerian raisins are known for their sweet, fruity, and tangy taste, which adds a unique dimension to the dish. You can find authentic Algerian raisins in specialty grocery stores or online.
Tip #2.1: How to Soak Raisins
Soaking raisins not only plumps them up but also helps to release their flavor. To soak raisins, place them in a bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them sit for about 15 minutes. Drain and rinse the raisins before adding them to the couscous.

Tip #3: Use Fresh Mint

Fresh mint is a crucial ingredient in Algerian saffron raisin couscous with fresh mint recipes. It adds a refreshing, aromatic flavor to the dish, which complements the sweetness of the raisins and the tanginess of the saffron. You can use either spearmint or peppermint, depending on your preference.
Tip #3.1: How to Use Fresh Mint
To use fresh mint in Algerian saffron raisin couscous recipes, chop the leaves finely and add them to the couscous after cooking. Avoid cooking fresh mint as it can turn bitter and lose its flavor.

Tip #4: Use the Right Couscous

Couscous is a staple ingredient in Algerian saffron raisin couscous with fresh mint recipes. Use the right type of couscous for the best results. There are two types of couscous available: instant couscous and traditional couscous. Traditional couscous takes longer to prepare but has a better texture and flavor than instant couscous.
Tip #4.1: How to Cook Traditional Couscous
To cook traditional couscous, steam it using a couscoussière. A couscoussière is a special pot used to cook couscous. Place the couscous in the top section of the couscoussière and let it steam for about 30 minutes. After steaming, transfer the couscous to a large bowl and fluff it with a fork.

Tip #4.1.1: How to Cook Instant Couscous

To cook instant couscous, boil water or stock and add it to the couscous. Cover the bowl and let it sit for about five minutes until the couscous is tender. Fluff the couscous with a fork before adding other ingredients.

Tip #5: Use the Right Spices

Spices are crucial to the flavor of Algerian saffron raisin couscous with fresh mint recipes. Use the right spices in the right amounts to get the most flavorful dish. The most common spices used in Algerian saffron raisin couscous with fresh mint recipes include cinnamon, cumin, ginger, and coriander.
Tip #5.1: How to Use Spices
To use spices, mix them with some oil or butter and sauté them in a pan over medium heat until fragrant. Add the cooked couscous, raisins, saffron, and mint to the pan and toss everything together until well combined.

Conclusion

Preparing Algerian saffron raisin couscous with fresh mint recipes may seem daunting at first, but with the right tips and tricks, you can create a delicious and nutritious dish that your family and friends will love. Using high-quality saffron, authentic Algerian raisins, fresh mint, the right couscous, and the right spices are crucial to achieving the perfect flavor and texture. With these tips, you can become an expert in making Algerian saffron raisin couscous with fresh mint recipes.

Related Topics