Cuban-Style Couscous

Ingredients

While the original North African couscous is typically prepared with spices like cumin and coriander, Cuban cuisine incorporates ingredients such as garlic, citrus, and tropical fruits. This adaptation infuses the couscous with the lively flavors of Cuba, giving it a refreshing and zesty twist. We alse have the original recipe for Couscous (dish), so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth
• 1 cup (200g) couscous 1 cup (200g) couscous
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup (150g) frozen peas 1 cup (150g) frozen peas
• 1 cup (150g) diced pineapple 1 cup (150g) diced pineapple
• Juice of 1 lime Juice of 1 lime
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 56g, 10g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the couscous. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes until the couscous absorbs the liquid.
2. 2.
   Fluff the couscous with a fork and set aside.
3. 3.
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
4. 4.
   Add the red bell pepper, frozen peas, and diced pineapple to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. 5.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the vegetables in the skillet and stir well.
6. 6.
   Add the cooked couscous to the skillet and toss until all the ingredients are well combined and heated through.
7. 7.
   Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro.
8. 8.
   Serve the Cuban-style couscous warm as a main dish or as a side dish to complement your favorite Cuban recipes.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Pineapple — Use fresh pineapple for the best flavor. If fresh is not available, use canned pineapple chunks in natural juice, drained.
• Cilantro — If you're not a fan of cilantro, you can substitute it with fresh parsley for a milder herb flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For added flavor, toast the couscous in a dry skillet for a few minutes before cooking it in the vegetable broth.
• Customize the dish by adding other vegetables like diced tomatoes or corn kernels.
• If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño pepper to the skillet.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold as a refreshing couscous salad the next day.
• Serve the Cuban-style couscous with a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Cuban-style couscous as a main dish accompanied by a fresh green salad or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It pairs well with traditional Cuban dishes like Ropa Vieja or Picadillo.

Presentation advice

Garnish the Cuban-style couscous with a sprig of fresh cilantro and a lime wedge for an appealing presentation. Serve it in a colorful dish to highlight the vibrant colors of the vegetables.