How to Make Couscous: Simple Guide

Couscous is a versatile and delicious dish that has its origins in North African cuisine, but is also very popular in several regions of Brazil. Made from corn or wheat semolina, it can be served in both savory and sweet versions. If you want to learn how to make couscous in a simple and tasty way, follow our step by step guide.

How to Make Couscous: Practical Guide to a Traditional Dish

Ingredients:

• 2 cups corn meal (for couscous)
• 2 cups of water
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 2 tablespoons oil or butter (optional)

Recipe step by step:

Step 1: Hydrate the Semolina

In a bowl, add the corn meal and salt. Little by little, add the water and mix with your hands, ensuring that the semolina is very moist, but without excess water.

Step 2: Let It Rest

After hydrating the semolina, let it rest for about 10 minutes. This will allow it to absorb the water and get to the right point for cooking.

Step 3: Prepare the Couscous

While the semolina rests, prepare the couscous dish by pouring water into the bottom and making sure the water does not touch the sieve at the top. If you wish, you can add a little oil or butter through the sieve to add more flavor to the couscous.

Step 4: Cook the Couscous

Place the already hydrated semolina in the couscous sieve, cover and place over medium heat. Cook for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the couscous is tender and cooked through.

Tips for Perfect Couscous:

1. Vary the Flavors: Couscous can be enriched with vegetables, sardines, eggs, cheese and other ingredients of your choice.
2. Sweet couscous: For a sweet version, add coconut milk, sugar and fruit to the hydrated semolina.
3. Ideal Consistency: The couscous should be neither too dry nor too wet. Adjust the amount of water as needed.
4. Serving Couscous: Serve the couscous hot, accompanied by a good coffee or as an accompaniment to main dishes.
5. Storage: Couscous can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or steam it.
6. Combinations: Try serving couscous with different sauces, roasted meats, or even in cold salads for a refreshing and nutritious meal.
7. Ideal Texture: Make sure the semolina is well hydrated before cooking to ensure a perfect texture.

Conclusion

Couscous is a simple dish, but it carries with it a rich culinary tradition. Whether as a side dish, main dish or dessert, it is always a delicious and comforting option. With our guide, we hope you feel confident preparing couscous at home and surprising your family and friends with your culinary skills. Enjoy!

FAQ about Couscous

1. Can I make couscous without a couscous pan? Yes, you can improvise by using a regular pan with a metal colander, as long as the water doesn't touch the semolina during cooking.

2. What is the difference between Moroccan couscous and Brazilian couscous? Moroccan couscous is made with wheat semolina and is usually steamed. Brazilian couscous is made with corn meal and can be steamed or cooked in a pan.

3. How do you know if the couscous is ready? The couscous is ready when it is soft and cooked completely. If you are using a couscous pan, the cooking time is about 20 to 25 minutes.

4. Can I add other ingredients to couscous? Yes, you can add vegetables, meats, cheeses and other ingredients of your choice to enrich the flavor of the couscous.

5. How to make sweet couscous? To make sweet couscous, add coconut milk, sugar and fruit to the hydrated semolina before cooking. You can also add spices like cinnamon and cloves for extra flavor.