Traditional Seven-Vegetable Couscous Recipe

Seven-Vegetable Couscous is a traditional North African dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. It features fluffy couscous paired with a medley of vegetables cooked in a fragrant broth, often spiced with a blend of North African seasonings. Here’s a recipe to prepare this delicious dish:

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Ingredients

For the Couscous:

• 2 cups couscous
• 2 ½ cups boiling water or vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• Pinch of salt

For the Vegetable Stew:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 small eggplant, diced
• 1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 1 turnip, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup butternut squash, cubed
• 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 4 tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned tomatoes)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Couscous:
   • Place couscous in a large bowl.
   • Add olive oil or butter and a pinch of salt, then pour the boiling water or vegetable broth over it.
   • Cover the bowl tightly with a lid or cling film and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
   • Fluff the couscous with a fork and set aside.
2. Cook the Vegetable Stew:
   • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until softened.
   • Stir in the carrots, zucchini, eggplant, sweet potato, turnip, and butternut squash. Cook for 5 minutes.
   • Add the tomatoes, chickpeas, vegetable broth, and all the spices (turmeric, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper).
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Assemble the Dish:
   • Serve the couscous in individual bowls or a large serving platter.
   • Spoon the vegetable stew over the couscous.
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley.

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Tips:

• Feel free to add other vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, or okra based on your preferences.
• For a protein boost, add cooked lamb or chicken if you’re not keeping it vegetarian.
• Harissa paste can be served on the side for extra heat.

Enjoy your Seven-Vegetable Couscous as a satisfying main dish or a festive addition to a group meal! 🌟