Couscous with apples - fasting (without oil)

Couscous with Apples - a vegan dessert that combines simplicity with delight

Total preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4

When we think of desserts, we often imagine something complicated, calorie-laden, and made with refined ingredients. However, in the culinary world, there are simple recipes with a unique charm that can delight our taste buds without requiring much effort. Couscous with apples is one of these recipes. This easy-to-make vegan dessert combines the sweet flavors of caramelized apples with the fluffy texture of couscous, providing a comforting and satisfying culinary experience.

A bit of history: Couscous is a traditional food commonly found in many cultures that has evolved over time. Although it is usually associated with savory dishes, this sweet recipe is a modern and innovative variation that highlights the versatility of this ingredient. Apples, on the other hand, have been cultivated for thousands of years and are appreciated not only for their delicious taste but also for the nutritional benefits they bring.

Ingredients:

- 1 cup couscous
- 5 green apples (preferably, for a pleasant acidity contrast)
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- A pinch of cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon orange blossom water (optional, but recommended for a floral note)
- 2-3 tablespoons sunflower oil (optional, for a richer taste)
- Salt

Step by step for a perfect dessert:

1. Preparing the apples: Start by washing the apples well under a stream of cold water. Then, using a sharp knife, peel and cut them into cubes of about 1 cm. It is important to use green apples, as their acidity will add a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the sugar, creating a perfect balance.

2. Caramelizing the apples: In a large pan, add the apple cubes along with the 5 tablespoons of sugar, vanilla sugar, cinnamon, and, if you choose, the orange blossom water. Place the pan over medium heat and stir occasionally. Let the apples sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they become soft and start releasing delicious juices.

3. Preparing the couscous: While the apples are caramelizing, in a separate pot, add 2 ½ measures of warm water and a pinch of salt. Put the pot on the stove and bring the water to a boil. Once the water has started boiling, add the couscous and stir well. Cover the pot with a lid and let the couscous simmer for 3 minutes. This simple technique will ensure a fluffy and perfectly cooked texture.

4. Combining the ingredients: After 3 minutes, take the pot off the heat and let the couscous sit covered for 5 minutes to swell. After this period, add the couscous to the pan with the caramelized apples. If you choose to use sunflower oil for added flavor, now is the time to incorporate it. Gently mix all the ingredients until the couscous is well coated with the aromatic juice of the apples.

5. Serving: Your dessert is now ready! You can serve it warm or at room temperature, according to your preferences. A delicious suggestion is to sprinkle it with a little cinnamon or crushed nuts for added texture. If you feel adventurous, I love to accompany it with a spoonful of soy yogurt, which adds a creamy and refreshing note.

Nutritional benefits: This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins, while couscous provides complex carbohydrates that will give you energy throughout the day. Additionally, it is a low-calorie dessert, ideal for any diet, with about 150 calories per serving (without oil).

Possible variations: If you want to experiment, you can add other fruits, such as pears or peaches, or you can try replacing sugar with honey or maple syrup for a healthier alternative. Also, for a more exotic taste, you can add spices like nutmeg or ginger.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole wheat couscous? Absolutely! Whole wheat couscous will add a note of flavor and a richer texture.

2. How can I store the dessert? This dessert keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. I recommend gently reheating it before serving to bring back its aroma.

3. Can it be made without sugar? Of course! You can use natural sweeteners or reduce the amount of sugar according to your preferences.

With these tips and well-structured steps, I am sure you will achieve a perfect couscous with apples. This vegan dessert is not only a healthy choice but also a wonderful way to impress your friends and family. Enjoy!