Indian style couscous

Indian Style Chicken Couscous

Looking for a quick, flavorful recipe to add a touch of zest to your meals? Then I suggest an Indian Style Chicken Couscous, a delicious combination of ingredients that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring an exotic flair to your kitchen. This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner, but also to impress your guests!

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Ingredients:
- 1 large cup of couscous
- 1 large cup of boiling water
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons of curry
- 1/2 of a chicken or turkey breast (approximately 250-300g)
- 2 large onions
- 2 red bell peppers
- Approximately 1 and 1/2 cups of tomato juice
- A pinch of chili (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground red pepper
- 3 tablespoons of raisins
- Salt to taste

A bit of history:
Couscous is a traditional food that has been used for centuries in various cultures, often associated with meat and vegetable dishes. Its origins are deeply rooted in culinary traditions, and today it is celebrated worldwide. By adding Indian spices like curry and chili, this dish becomes a true feast for the senses, combining influences from different corners of the world.

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing the chicken breast well, then dry it with a kitchen towel. Cut it into finger-width strips. This will ensure even and quick cooking.

2. Chopping the onion and bell pepper:
Peel the onions and chop them finely. For the bell pepper, you can either chop it or blend it into a fine paste. This texture will help integrate the flavors into the dish.

3. Heating the oil:
Heat the olive oil in a wok or deep frying pan. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a nice browning.

4. Cooking the chicken:
Add the chicken strips to the wok and sauté until golden. Then remove them from the wok and set them aside. This step is essential to keep the meat juicy.

5. Sautéing the onion and bell pepper:
In the remaining fat in the wok, add the chopped onion. Sauté until it becomes translucent, then add the red bell pepper, raisins, 1 teaspoon of curry, chili, red pepper, and a pinch of salt. These ingredients will combine harmoniously, creating a rich flavor base.

6. Returning the chicken to the wok:
Add the chicken back to the wok and continue to sauté for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

7. Adding the tomato juice:
Pour the tomato juice (or diluted tomato paste with boiling water) over the meat and vegetable mixture. Let it simmer a bit, tasting and adjusting the spices to your preference. I recommend adding a bit of chili for extra heat!

8. Preparing the couscous:
Measure the couscous and water with the same cup. When the water is boiling, pour it over the couscous, add 1/2 teaspoon of curry, the 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Stir quickly, then cover with a lid or a clean towel. Let it swell for 5 minutes.

9. Serving:
Once the couscous has swelled, use a fork to fluff it. Place the couscous on plates and top with the chicken sauce. This dish can be garnished with fresh coriander or parsley for a vibrant look.

Useful tips:
- You can replace chicken with turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Add vegetables like carrots or zucchini to enrich the dish.
- I recommend serving this couscous with natural yogurt or a cucumber salad to balance the flavors.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use beef or lamb, but the cooking time will vary.

2. How can I adapt the recipe for a vegetarian version?
Replace the meat with vegetables and add chickpeas for extra protein.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
I recommend a white wine or a mint iced tea to complement the intense flavors of the dish.

Nutritional benefits:
Couscous is a good source of carbohydrates, and combined with chicken and vegetables, it provides a balanced intake of proteins, vitamins, and minerals. The raisins add a touch of sweetness and are rich in antioxidants.

I encourage you to try this Indian Style Chicken Couscous recipe and enjoy every bite. It is an excellent choice for a quick dinner, but also a wonderful way to explore new flavors in your kitchen. Bon appétit!