Curried couscous is a delightful side dish that combines the flavors of fresh vegetables, the heat of curry powder and jalapeño, the sweetness of raisins, and the crunch of almonds. This recipe offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, creating a dish that is both satisfying and flavorful. Whether served as a side dish or a light vegetarian main course, curried couscous is sure to impress with its vibrant and aromatic profile.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 medium onion, cut into thin wedges
- 2 cups (240 g) coarsely chopped yellow squash
- 1 can (28 ounces, or 785 g) no-salt-added diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 ounces (115 g) chopped jalapeño chilies
- 2 cups (475 ml) water
- 2 tablespoons (12.6 g) curry powder
- 11 ounces (310 g) couscous
- 1 cup (110 g) slivered almonds
- ½ cup (75 g) raisins
- Fresh cilantro sprigs (optional)
PREPARATION:
- In a slow cooker, combine the onion, yellow squash, undrained diced tomatoes, jalapeño chilies, water, and curry powder.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours.
- Stir in the couscous, then turn off the cooker. Cover and let the mixture stand for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the couscous mixture with a fork.
- To serve, sprinkle each serving with slivered almonds and raisins. Garnish with fresh cilantro sprigs, if desired.
YIELD: 8 servings
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:
- 204 g water
- 361 calories (25% from fat, 13% from protein, 62% from carbs)
- 12 g protein
- 11 g total fat
- 1 g saturated fat
- 6 g monounsaturated fat
- 3 g polyunsaturated fat
- 59 g carbs
- 11 g fiber
- 17 g sugar
- 224 mg phosphorus
- 116 mg calcium
- 4 mg iron
- 35 mg sodium
- 850 mg potassium
- 3943 IU vitamin A
- 0 mg ATE vitamin E
- 20 mg vitamin C
- 0 mg cholesterol
TIPS:
- To add more depth of flavor, consider sautéing the onion and yellow squash before adding them to the slow cooker. This step will enhance their natural sweetness and contribute to the overall taste of the dish.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by modifying the amount of jalapeño chilies used. Add more if you prefer a hotter kick or reduce the amount for a milder flavor.
- For a touch of freshness, garnish the dish with fresh cilantro sprigs before serving. The herb’s vibrant aroma and taste complement the flavors of the curried couscous.
Curried couscous is a versatile and flavorful side dish that brings together a medley of delicious ingredients. The slow cooker allows the flavors to develop and meld together, resulting in a dish that is both fragrant and satisfying. The combination of fresh vegetables, curry powder, jalapeño chilies, raisins, and slivered almonds creates a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
To enhance the dish further, consider sautéing the onion and yellow squash before adding them to the slow cooker. This step caramelizes the vegetables, intensifying their natural sweetness and adding depth to the overall flavor profile. Adjust the spiciness to your preference by modifying the amount of jalapeño chilies used. If you enjoy a bolder kick, increase the quantity, or decrease it for a milder taste.
The couscous, a staple of North African cuisine, absorbs the flavorful liquid and spices, resulting in a satisfying and aromatic dish. The addition of raisins brings a touch of sweetness, while the slivered almonds contribute a delightful crunch. These elements, combined with the heat of the curry powder, create a captivating balance of flavors.
When serving curried couscous, don’t forget to garnish each plate with a sprinkle of slivered almonds and raisins. This adds visual appeal and an extra layer of texture to the dish. For a final touch of freshness, consider garnishing with a few fresh cilantro sprigs. The herb’s vibrant aroma and flavor will complement the savory and spicy notes of the curried couscous.
Whether you’re looking for a flavorful side dish for a family dinner or a vegetarian option for a gathering, curried couscous fits the bill perfectly. Its versatility and ability to satisfy a variety of tastes make it a go-to recipe for many occasions. With the convenience of the slow cooker, you can effortlessly create a dish that impresses with its vibrant colors, fragrant aroma, and delightful flavors.
In conclusion, curried couscous is a winning combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and contrasting textures. This slow cooker recipe offers a simple and convenient way to prepare a flavorful side dish that will impress both family and guests. Embrace the richness of this dish and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in every bite.
