Moroccan Couscous with Roast Vegetables

Ingredients for Moroccan Couscous with Roast Vegetables

This recipe is simple, yet packed with vibrant flavors. The ingredients are easily accessible, and the dish can be prepared with a variety of vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand.

For the Couscous:

• 1 ½ cups couscous (use gluten-free couscous or quinoa for a gluten-free option)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ¾ cups vegetable broth or water (for added flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A pinch of saffron or turmeric (for color and flavor)

For the Roasted Vegetables:

• 1 large carrot, peeled and cut into sticks
• 1 zucchini, cut into half-moons
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 1 small red onion, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Moroccan Spice Blend:

• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric (for color and subtle flavor)

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• A handful of raisins or dried apricots (optional, for a sweet contrast)
• Toasted slivered almonds or pumpkin seeds (optional, for crunch)

How to Prepare Moroccan Couscous with Roast Vegetables

Step 1: Preparing the Roasted Vegetables

Roasting the vegetables is the key to developing their full flavor. The high heat caramelizes the sugars in the vegetables, intensifying their natural sweetness and allowing them to absorb the spices better.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the carrot, zucchini, bell peppers, sweet potato, and onion in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, combine all the spices (cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, cayenne) and sprinkle over the vegetables. Toss again to ensure all the vegetables are coated with the spices.
4. Spread the vegetables in an even layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly browned. Stir halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting.

Step 2: Cooking the Couscous

1. While the vegetables are roasting, bring the vegetable broth (or water) to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add a pinch of saffron or turmeric, if using, for color and extra flavor.
2. Stir in the couscous, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Once the liquid is boiling, remove the pan from the heat, cover, and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
3. After the couscous has absorbed the liquid, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains and ensure a light, fluffy texture.

Step 3: Assembling the Dish

1. Once the vegetables are roasted, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.
2. Fluff the couscous one more time and place it in a large serving dish.
3. Arrange the roasted vegetables on top of the couscous, mixing gently to combine if desired.
4. Garnish with fresh herbs, raisins or dried apricots, and toasted almonds or pumpkin seeds for added texture and flavor.

Variations and Customizations

Moroccan couscous with roasted vegetables is incredibly versatile. You can customize the recipe based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas:

• Add Protein: To make the dish more filling, consider adding grilled chicken, lamb, or chickpeas for extra protein.
• Use Different Vegetables: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables like cauliflower, eggplant, or butternut squash.
• Incorporate Dried Fruits: Raisins, apricots, or dates add a lovely sweetness that complements the spices.
• Top with Yogurt: A dollop of plain yogurt or a drizzle of tahini can add creaminess and balance the flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This Moroccan Couscous with Roast Vegetables recipe is not only incredibly easy to prepare but also full of exciting flavors and textures. The roasted vegetables bring out a wonderful sweetness, while the spice blend offers warmth and complexity. The couscous acts as a perfect base to absorb all the flavors, making each bite a satisfying experience.

Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or as part of a festive meal, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its exotic flavors. The vibrant colors, the rich aromas, and the delicious contrast of textures will transport you to the heart of Morocco, offering a meal that’s both comforting and adventurous.

Conclusion

Moroccan Couscous with Roast Vegetables is a beautiful representation of Moroccan cuisine’s ability to create harmony with simple ingredients. The dish is versatile, easy to make, and highly customizable. With its mix of earthy roasted vegetables, aromatic spices, and fluffy couscous, it’s a meal that appeals to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or someone trying Moroccan cuisine for the first time, this dish will certainly delight your senses and become a regular feature on your dining table.