Soulful Couscous Delight

Ingredients

While the original North African couscous is typically prepared with a variety of spices and vegetables, this soul food adaptation incorporates Southern flavors and ingredients. The dish is enhanced with smoky meats, aromatic herbs, and a touch of sweetness, creating a unique fusion of culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Couscous (dish), so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (185g) instant couscous 1 cup (185g) instant couscous
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup (150g) smoked sausage, sliced 1 cup (150g) smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 cup (150g) cooked chicken, shredded 1 cup (150g) cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 teaspoon (5g) smoked paprika 1 teaspoon (5g) smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) cayenne pepper (optional) 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 12g (Saturated Fat: 3g)
• Carbohydrates: 40g (Sugars: 3g)
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
2. 2.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the couscous. Cover and let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. 3.
   Fluff the couscous with a fork and set aside.
4. 4.
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
5. 5.
   Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
6. 6.
   Add the sliced smoked sausage and cooked chicken to the skillet. Cook until heated through.
7. 7.
   Sprinkle the smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if desired), salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir well to combine.
8. 8.
   Add the cooked couscous to the skillet and toss everything together until well mixed.
9. 9.
   Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
10. 10.
    Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
11. 11.
    Serve hot and enjoy the soulful flavors of this Southern-inspired couscous!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Smoked Sausage — If you prefer a spicier flavor, opt for a Cajun-style smoked sausage. For a milder taste, choose a traditional smoked sausage.
• Bell Pepper — Use a combination of red, green, and yellow bell peppers for a vibrant and colorful dish.
• Chicken — Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly in this recipe. You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Smoked Paprika — Look for a high-quality smoked paprika to add a rich and smoky flavor to the dish.
• Couscous — Instant couscous is recommended for quick and easy preparation. If using regular couscous, follow the package instructions for cooking.

Tips & Tricks

• For a vegetarian version, replace the smoked sausage and chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms.
• Add a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick of heat.
• Serve the couscous alongside collard greens or black-eyed peas for a complete soul food meal.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day. Simply reheat in a skillet with a little olive oil to refresh the flavors.
• Customize the dish by adding your favorite Southern spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of cumin.

Serving advice

Serve the Soulful Couscous Delight as a main course, accompanied by a side of cornbread or hush puppies. Garnish with additional fresh parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs well with a refreshing glass of sweet tea or lemonade.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation, transfer the couscous to a large serving platter and arrange the smoked sausage and chicken on top. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve family-style, allowing everyone to help themselves.