Couscous with pine nuts is a delightful dish that perfectly combines texture and flavor. To prepare this tasty meal, you’ll need unsalted butter, chopped shallots, chicken stock, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, couscous, toasted pine nuts, dried currants, and fresh flat-leaf parsley. The savory, nutty aroma of the pine nuts elevates the dish, making it a perfect complement to a variety of meals.
What Is Couscous
Couscous is a staple food in North African cuisine. It consists of tiny granules made from semolina wheat. The process of steaming the durum wheat gives it a light and fluffy texture.
I find couscous easy to prepare. It usually cooks quickly, often in just a few minutes. You can serve it as a side dish or as a base for a variety of toppings.
Couscous absorbs flavors well, making it a fantastic canvas for various dishes. Its mild taste complements rich sauces and fresh herbs.
In addition to being a delicious option, couscous is also convenient. It can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for quick meals.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 stick of unsalted butter
- 3-4 chopped shallots
- 3 cups of chicken stock
- 1/2 tsp of kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp of ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups of couscous
- 1/2 cup of toasted pine nuts
- 1/4 cup of dried currants
- 2 tbsp of chopped flat-leaf parsley
How to make couscous with pine nuts?
- Melt butter in a large saucepan and add shallots. Cook over medium-low heat until the shallots become translucent.
- Pour in chicken stock, along with salt and pepper, and bring everything to a boil. Then, remove the pan from the heat.
- Combine the couscous, let it rest for 10 minutes after covering the pot.
- Add the pine nuts, currants, and fresh parsley. Fluff everything with a fork to combine.
Pairing with Dishes
Meat and Poultry
For meat dishes, this couscous dish works well alongside grilled chicken or lamb. The nutty flavor enhances the savory notes of the meat.
I often serve it with roasted vegetables and a drizzle of lemon for extra brightness. Combine it with spiced meats like harissa-marinated chicken for an elevated experience. The couscous can soak up any flavorful sauces and seasoning, creating a delightful medley on the plate.
Vegetarian Options
When going vegetarian, I find that couscous with pine nuts pairs beautifully with sautéed greens, such as spinach or kale. Adding chickpeas boosts protein and texture.
You can also enjoy it with a Mediterranean salad featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese. Another option is to serve it with stuffed bell peppers filled with a mix of vegetables and spices. This combination creates a satisfying meal with balanced flavors.
Storage Tips
- Cool it down: Allow the couscous to cool to room temperature before storing it.
- Use airtight containers: Transfer the couscous into an airtight container to prevent moisture and odors.
- Refrigeration: Store it in the fridge if you plan to keep it for more than a couple of hours. It stays fresh for about 3-5 days when refrigerated.
- Freezing: For longer storage, I freeze my couscous. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw it in the fridge overnight. I usually reheat it on the stove with a little bit of water or broth to bring back its texture.
- Avoid sogginess: If I notice extra moisture, I simply drain excess liquid before storing it.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Couscous is too sticky:
- Use the correct water-to-couscous ratio.
- Fluff with a fork after cooking to separate the grains.
Couscous is undercooked:
- Ensure you let it sit for long enough after adding boiling water.
- If it still feels hard, add a little more boiling water and cover it again.
Pine nuts are bitter:
- Toast them lightly to enhance their natural flavor.
- Avoid overcooking, as burnt pine nuts will taste bitter.
Lack of flavor:
- Season your water with salt before cooking the couscous.
- Add herbs or spices into the mix for an extra kick.
Couscous is dry:
- Add a splash of olive oil or melted butter to moisten it.
- Mixing in some broth instead of water can add moisture and flavor.
Conclusion
Couscous with pine nuts offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. I love how the light, fluffy couscous pairs with the crunch of toasted pine nuts.
This dish is versatile and can easily adapt to different ingredients. For instance, I often add sautéed vegetables or spices to enhance its taste.
Enjoying couscous with pine nuts brings warmth to any meal. I find it perfect for gatherings or as a comforting side with dinner.
As mentioned above, this dish pairs wonderfully with harissa grilled chicken.
Get its recipe now (by clicking the image below):
