Southwest Couscous is a vibrant side dish inspired by the fusion of North African and Southwestern U.S. cuisines. Couscous, a staple of Maghrebi meals in North Africa, is a semolina pasta known for its light, fluffy texture and quick cooking time. This version incorporates bold Southwestern flavors like green chili peppers and turmeric, bringing a spicy and earthy flair. It's ideal for pairing with grilled fish, poultry, or vegetables. With a preparation time of under 15 minutes, it's a convenient yet flavorful addition to weeknight meals or festive gatherings. This dish is a testament to how international ingredients can blend seamlessly into modern American cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- ¼ cup green onion (sliced )
- 4 oz green chili peppers (diced, undrained)
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
- ⅛ tsp pepper
- ⅔ cup couscous
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
- In a small saucepan, add chicken broth, sliced green onion, undrained diced green chili peppers, turmeric, and pepper.
Step 2: Heat
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
Step 3: Add Couscous
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in couscous immediately.
Step 4: Let it Sit
- Cover the saucepan.
- Let it stand for 5 minutes to allow couscous to absorb the liquid.
Step 5: Fluff and Serve
- Fluff the couscous with a fork before serving.
Tips
- Vegan Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken for a more complete meal.
- Extra Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
- Fresh Touch: Top with chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime before serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 128kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 4gFat: 0.4gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.04gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 407mgPotassium: 111mgFiber: 2gSugar: 0.4gVitamin A: 99IUVitamin C: 11mgCalcium: 24mgIron: 1mg
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