Indian style couscous

Indian-style couscous: an explosion of flavors and textures

If you are looking for a couscous recipe that transports you to a world full of flavors and colors, you have come to the right place. This Indian-style couscous recipe is not just food, but a culinary experience. With a perfect blend of spices and fresh ingredients, this dish will turn any meal into a celebration. Moreover, it is a quick and simple recipe, ideal for those who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

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
- 2 large onions
- 2 red bell peppers
- Approximately 1 and 1/2 cups of tomato juice
- A pinch of chili
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground red pepper
- 3 tablespoons of raisins
- Salt to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken or turkey breast. Dry it with a kitchen towel and cut it into finger-width strips. This will be the main ingredient that adds delicious protein to the dish.

2. Chopping the onion and pepper: Peel and finely chop the onion. The bell pepper should be turned into a paste. You can use a food processor or a chopper to achieve a fine consistency. This will help integrate the flavors better.

3. Sautéing the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a wok. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken strips and sauté until golden. Then, remove the chicken from the wok and set it aside. It will be added later to combine with the flavorful sauce.

4. Cooking the vegetables: In the same fat, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Then, incorporate the bell pepper paste, raisins, 1 teaspoon of curry, chili, red pepper, and a little salt. Mix well to combine all the flavors.

5. Combining the ingredients: Put the chicken back in the wok and sauté everything together for a few minutes. Add the tomato juice or, if you prefer, diluted tomato paste with hot water. Let everything simmer for a few minutes for the flavors to meld.

6. Preparing the couscous: In a separate pot, measure the couscous and water. When the water starts to boil, pour it over the couscous, add 1/2 teaspoon of curry, the 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and a little salt. Stir quickly to avoid clumping. Cover with a lid and let it steam for about 5 minutes.

7. Serving: Once the couscous is ready, place it on plates and top with the meat sauce. You can garnish with a few fresh coriander leaves for an extra touch of freshness and color.

Useful tips:
- Use whole grain couscous for a higher nutritional value.
- If you want to try a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with boiled chickpeas or sautéed vegetables.
- Add vegetables like carrots or zucchini for a crunchier texture and a color contrast.
- If you like spicy food, feel free to adjust the amount of chili according to your preferences.

Nutritional benefits:
This dish is rich in protein due to the chicken, while couscous provides complex carbohydrates. Raisins add a sweet note and contribute to fiber intake. Additionally, spices like curry and chili have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of meat? Absolutely! This recipe works very well with lamb or turkey meat.
- How can I make the couscous more flavorful? You can add chicken or vegetable broth instead of water to enhance the flavor.

Ideal pairings:
This Indian-style couscous pairs perfectly with a fresh vegetable salad or a tropical fruit smoothie. A glass of yogurt with mint will also complement the meal perfectly, adding a refreshing touch.

In conclusion, Indian-style couscous is a simple yet flavorful recipe full of varied tastes and aromas. It is a versatile dish that you can adapt according to the season or your preferences. Try it and let yourself be taken on a culinary journey full of flavor!