Couscous garnish with mushrooms

Couscous with mushrooms - a delicious and versatile side dish

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Are you looking for a quick and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with any meat? Couscous with mushrooms is the ideal choice! This recipe is not only simple but also extremely versatile, allowing you to adapt it to your taste. Whether you prefer a sweeter or spicier flavor, this side dish will surprise you with every bite.

The origin of couscous is fascinating, as it has been used for centuries in various culinary cultures. It is a fine wheat product that cooks quickly, making it an excellent option for a healthy meal. Combining couscous with mushrooms not only brings a delicious taste but also numerous nutritional benefits, thanks to its protein, fiber, and vitamin content.

Necessary ingredients:
- 250 grams of couscous
- 500 grams of champignon mushrooms
- 1 medium yellow onion
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 1 large tomato
- Sunflower oil, for sautéing
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 pinch of chili (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (optional)
- Garden herbs (e.g., thyme, basil)
- 50 grams of butter
- Chopped parsley, for garnish

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling the onion and garlic. Chop the onion finely and crush the garlic cloves. These two ingredients will provide the base flavor for your side dish!

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, add a few tablespoons of sunflower oil and heat over low heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing them gently for 2-3 minutes. It is important not to fry them too hard, or they will become bitter. Let them become sweet and aromatic.

3. Preparing the mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms of skins and gills, then wash them well and slice them. Add the mushrooms to the skillet over the sautéed onion and garlic. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their water and it reduces (about 5-7 minutes).

4. Adding the tomato: Wash the tomato and cut it into small cubes. Add the tomato to the skillet along with the mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Continue cooking over low heat until the vegetables are well cooked and the water has reduced.

5. Preparing the couscous: In a separate pot, bring water to a boil with salt. When the water is boiling, add the couscous, stir gently, and let it cook according to the package instructions (usually between 5-10 minutes). Once cooked, drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

6. Combining the ingredients: When the vegetables are ready, add salt, pepper, oregano, and if desired, a pinch of chili or sweet paprika. Mix well to combine the flavors. Then, add the drained couscous to the skillet and mix again so that all the ingredients blend perfectly.

7. Finishing the side dish: Finally, add 50 grams of butter to the skillet and continue to stir over low heat for 2-3 minutes, allowing the couscous to absorb the flavor of the butter.

8. Serving: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top and serve the side dish alongside your favorite meat or as a vegetarian dish.

Useful tips:
- If you want a side dish with a stronger flavor, you can add a few drops of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce.
- You can experiment with other types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, for a different taste.
- For a healthier option, you can replace the butter with extra virgin olive oil.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can couscous be prepared with vegetables instead of meat? Yes, this side dish is also excellent as a vegetarian main course! You can add fresh or grilled vegetables for an extra nutrient boost.
- How can I store couscous to consume later? You can keep the side dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet with a little oil.

This couscous with mushrooms is not only delicious but also full of color and texture. Try serving it with a fresh salad or a refreshing drink to complete the meal! Whether it's a family lunch or a dinner with friends, this recipe is sure to impress everyone! Enjoy!