Savory muffins with minced meat and couscous

Savory Muffins with Ground Meat and Couscous - An Explosion of Flavors in a Delicious Package

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12 muffins

Here’s a recipe that combines tradition with innovation, bringing a delicious, flavorful snack to your table. Savory muffins with ground meat and couscous are perfect for any occasion – from gatherings with friends to family parties. So, let’s get started!

A Bit of History

Savory muffins are a versatile dish that often ingeniously combines simple ingredients. They have become popular in many cultures, each having its unique variant. Couscous, the staple ingredient of our recipe, is made from wheat and is a staple food in many parts of the world. Its fluffy texture and ability to absorb flavors make it perfect for combining with various fillings, such as meat, vegetables, or cheeses.

Ingredients

For the muffins:
- 250 g couscous
- 750 ml water
- 1 teaspoon salt

For the filling:
- 500 g ground meat (beef, pork, or chicken, as preferred)
- 2 large yellow onions
- 2 carrots
- 1 bell pepper (or 2 roasted, frozen peppers)
- 1 head of garlic (about 4-5 cloves)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 300 g canned (or fresh) mushrooms
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 2 eggs (1 whole and 1 yolk for the filling)

Spices:
- Thyme
- Basil
- Sweet paprika
- Pepper

For garnish:
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Fresh parsley leaves
- Grated cheese

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preparing the couscous:
In a pot, bring 750 ml of water to a boil and add a teaspoon of salt. When the water boils, add the couscous, stir well, and let it simmer for 5 minutes or until it absorbs all the water. Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let the couscous cool.

2. Fluffing the couscous:
While the couscous cools, beat an egg white until it becomes frothy. This foam will add a fluffy and airy texture to your muffins. Once the couscous has cooled, add the egg white foam and gently mix.

3. Preparing the filling:
Clean and finely chop the vegetables: onion, carrots, bell pepper, and mushrooms. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the onion and carrot, sprinkle a little salt, and let them sauté until soft, stirring occasionally.

4. Adding the meat:
Once the onion and carrot are well sautéed, add the chopped garlic and bell pepper. Stir for a few minutes, then add the ground meat. Cover the skillet and let everything simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the meat is fully cooked.

5. Seasoning:
Add the mushrooms and your favorite spices (thyme, basil, sweet paprika, and pepper) to taste. Once the meat is cooked, add the chopped parsley. Turn off the heat and let the filling cool slightly.

6. Finalizing the filling:
In a bowl, add the meat and vegetable filling, one whole egg, and the yolk. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

7. Assembling the muffins:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. In muffin tins, add a spoonful of couscous, followed by a spoonful of meat filling, then cover with another spoonful of couscous. Finally, decorate each muffin with a piece of sun-dried tomato and sprinkle grated cheese on top.

8. Baking:
Place the tins in the preheated oven and bake the muffins for 20 minutes or until golden and crispy.

9. Serving:
Once the muffins are ready, let them cool slightly before removing them from the tins. You can garnish them with fresh parsley leaves for a more attractive appearance. These savory muffins are delicious both warm and cold, making them perfect alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables.

Helpful Tips

- For a vegetarian version: You can replace the meat with a combination of vegetables and feta cheese or tofu.
- For a more intense flavor: Add spices like cumin or coriander for a more complex aroma.
- Storage: These muffins can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be reheated in the microwave for a quick snack.

Nutritional Benefits

These muffins are not only delicious but also nutritious. Couscous is a good source of complex carbohydrates, while the vegetables and ground meat provide a considerable amount of vitamins and proteins. Additionally, parsley offers antioxidants and contributes to healthy digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole wheat couscous? Yes, whole wheat couscous is a healthy option and adds a richer flavor.
2. What sauces pair well with these muffins? A yogurt sauce with mint or a spicy tomato-based sauce will perfectly complement the muffins.
3. Can I freeze the muffins? Yes, you can freeze the raw muffins before baking. When you are ready to serve them, thaw and bake according to the instructions.

Conclusion

These savory muffins with ground meat and couscous are a fantastic choice for any occasion. With a perfect combination of ingredients and flavors, they are sure to impress everyone. So, put on your chef’s hat and let your imagination soar in the kitchen! Enjoy!