Henan-style Sweet Couscous

Ingredients

While the original Tunisian Mesfouf is typically savory and served as a main course, Henan-style Sweet Couscous is adapted to the Henan cuisine's preference for sweet flavors. The dish incorporates local ingredients and spices to create a unique dessert experience. Additionally, the garnishes of nuts and dried fruits add a delightful crunch and enhance the overall sweetness of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Mesfouf, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) couscous 2 cups (400g) couscous
• 2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
• 1/2 cup (100g) sugar 1/2 cup (100g) sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup (75g) raisins 1/2 cup (75g) raisins
• 1/2 cup (75g) chopped almonds 1/2 cup (75g) chopped almonds
• 1/4 cup (40g) chopped pistachios 1/4 cup (40g) chopped pistachios
• 1/4 cup (40g) dried apricots, chopped 1/4 cup (40g) dried apricots, chopped

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 420 kcal / 1760 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 14g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 68g, 24g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 0.25g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the couscous, sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, and salt.
2. 2.
   In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Pour the boiling water over the couscous mixture and stir well.
3. 3.
   Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the couscous to absorb the flavors.
4. 4.
   After 10 minutes, fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains.
5. 5.
   Drizzle the vegetable oil over the couscous and mix well to ensure the grains are evenly coated.
6. 6.
   Add the raisins, chopped almonds, chopped pistachios, and dried apricots to the couscous. Mix gently to distribute the garnishes evenly.
7. 7.
   Serve the Henan-style Sweet Couscous warm or at room temperature.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Couscous — Ensure you use the correct ratio of couscous to water for fluffy results. Fluff the couscous with a fork after it has absorbed the water to prevent clumping.
• Raisins — Soak the raisins in warm water for a few minutes before adding them to the couscous to plump them up and enhance their texture.
• Nuts — Toast the chopped almonds and pistachios in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they become fragrant and lightly golden.
• Dried apricots — If the dried apricots are too firm, you can soak them in warm water for a few minutes to soften them before chopping.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can substitute some of the water with coconut milk or almond milk.
• Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less sugar.
• Experiment with different dried fruits and nuts for varied flavors and textures.
• Serve the Henan-style Sweet Couscous with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of indulgence.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed cold the next day or gently reheated in the microwave.

Serving advice

Serve the Henan-style Sweet Couscous in individual bowls or on a large platter. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios and a few dried apricot slices for an appealing presentation. Enjoy it as a comforting dessert or a delightful breakfast option.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation, consider molding the couscous into small individual portions using a round cookie cutter. Place the molded couscous on a decorative plate and arrange the garnishes in an aesthetically pleasing manner. Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon over the top for an added visual appeal.