The Best Homemade Couscous Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade couscous recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for any meal, whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd. You’ll love how it uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable—add your favorite veggies, proteins, or spices to make it your own. It’s ready in under 15 minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy nights. And the best part? It’s so light and fluffy, you’ll feel like a pro chef!
Recipe
Couscous is a versatile North African staple made from steamed semolina wheat. This homemade version allows you to control the texture and flavor, resulting in light, fluffy grains perfect for pairing with stews, vegetables, or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 ¼ cups water or broth
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil. Add salt and olive oil or butter.
- Remove from heat and stir in couscous. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork before serving.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, toast the couscous in oil before adding liquid.
- Adjust liquid quantity slightly for desired texture—less for firmer, more for softer couscous.
Equipment:
- Saucepan
- Fork
Time:
- Prep time: 2 minutes
- Cooking time: 5 minutes
Cuisine: North African
Serving: 4
Nutrition
Couscous is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, protein, and essential nutrients. It is a healthy option that can be customized with various vegetables and proteins.
| Nutrition | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 175 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 8 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 36 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.2 g |
| Sugars | 0.1 g |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Vitamin D | 0 mcg |
| Calcium | 7 mg |
| Iron | 0.4 mg |
| Potassium | 58 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade couscous with fresh, crunchy vegetables like roasted zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli—it adds a burst of color and flavor. For a heartier meal, I’ll toss in some grilled chicken, baked salmon, or chickpeas for extra protein. The combinations are endless, and I always feel like I’m creating something special.
Fresh Vegetable Pairings
When I’m planning a meal with couscous, I love to keep things fresh and vibrant by pairing it with colorful vegetables. Roasted zucchini and bell peppers add a sweet, smoky flavor, while cherry tomatoes bring a burst of juiciness. I often toss in some crisp cucumbers or shredded carrots for an invigorating crunch. Sautéed spinach or kale adds a touch of earthiness, and I can’t forget a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra brightness. Grilled eggplant or steamed broccoli also work wonders. These veggies turn simple couscous into a meal that’s both satisfying and full of life.
Protein Options
For a hearty, balanced meal, protein-packed additions can turn fluffy couscous into something truly filling. I love tossing in grilled chicken or shrimp for a quick, flavorful boost. If I’m in the mood for something vegetarian, chickpeas or tofu work wonders, soaking up all the spices in the dish. Sometimes, I’ll crumble in some feta or sprinkle shredded Parmesan for a creamy, cheesy twist. For a meatier option, lamb kebabs or beef strips pair beautifully, adding richness to every bite. Don’t forget a dollop of hummus or a boiled egg—they’re simple but make the meal feel complete. Protein makes all the difference!
