🧂 What is Couscous?
Couscous is a tiny steamed grain made from crushed semolina wheat. It is not technically a grain like rice but a type of pasta. Light, fluffy, and incredibly versatile, couscous is a staple in Moroccan, Tunisian, and Algerian cuisines — especially when paired with slow-cooked meats and vegetables.
🍲 Ingredients for Couscous with Lamb and Vegetables
For the Lamb Stew:
- 2 lbs lamb shoulder or shank (bone-in for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and halved
- 2 zucchinis, halved
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4–5 cups water or broth
For the Couscous:
- 2 cups instant couscous
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 2 1/4 cups hot water or broth
- Salt to taste
🔥 How to Make Couscous with Lamb and Vegetables
1. Sear the Lamb
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil. Sear the lamb pieces on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Build the Stew Base
Add onions and garlic to the pot and sauté until soft. Stir in tomato paste, chopped tomato, and all spices. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
3. Simmer with Veggies
Return lamb to the pot. Add carrots, chickpeas, and enough water or broth to cover the meat. Cover and simmer for 1–1.5 hours until meat is tender. Add zucchini during the last 20 minutes to avoid overcooking.
4. Prepare the Couscous
Place couscous in a large bowl. Add olive oil and salt, then pour over hot water or broth. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
5. Assemble and Serve
Spoon couscous onto a large platter. Arrange lamb and vegetables over the top and drizzle with some of the flavorful broth. Serve the remaining broth on the side for extra richness.
🌿 Pro Tips for Perfect Couscous with Lamb
- Use bone-in lamb for maximum flavor.
- Don’t overcook zucchini — add it toward the end.
- For a smoky twist, add a pinch of harissa or ras el hanout to the stew.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for brightness.
🎉 Cultural Significance
Couscous is not just a dish — it's a symbol of hospitality and community. Often shared in large platters at family gatherings, weddings, and festivals, this dish reflects the warmth and generosity of North African culture.
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🧆 Pairing Suggestions:
- Serve with harissa or mint yogurt sauce.
- Accompany with a pot of sweet Moroccan mint tea.
- Add a side of grilled flatbread or olives for a full North African meal experience.
