If you’re searching for a vibrant and satisfying dish that embodies the essence of Moroccan cuisine, look no further than this Moroccan-Spiced Couscous with Chickpeas and Apricots. This vegetarian and vegan mains recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special gathering. The combination of tender couscous, hearty chickpeas, and sweet apricots creates a harmony that will thrill your taste buds.
This dish not only showcases the rich spices of Moroccan cuisine but also makes use of simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Each bite is a journey through layers of flavor, making it a go-to for anyone looking to add a touch of exotic flair to their dinner table.
A Delicious and Vibrant Moroccan Dish
This Moroccan-Spiced Couscous is a delightful dish featuring fluffy couscous tossed with tender chickpeas, sweet apricots, and a medley of aromatic spices. It’s wonderfully satisfying, with a perfect balance of savory and sweet that makes it a standout option for vegetarian and vegan mains.
Ingredients
- 1 cup couscous
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Couscous: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Stir in the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the couscous absorbs the liquid. Fluff with a fork once done.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Chickpeas and Spices: Stir in the chickpeas, ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the dried apricots and cooked couscous to the skillet, mixing well to combine all the ingredients. Cook for another 2 minutes to warm through.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve the couscous hot, with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 9g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
