Algerian Couscous in a Kettle
Couscous is a North African dish that has become popular around the world. It is traditionally cooked in a special pot called a couscousier, which has a steamer basket on top for the grains and a simmering pot below for the stew. However, with a few tweaks to the recipe and method, it is possible to make Algerian couscous in a kettle. Below are some recipes to try.
Lamb and Vegetable Couscous
This hearty and delicious recipe combines tender chunks of lamb with a variety of fresh vegetables, including carrots, zucchini, and turnips. To make it in a kettle, start by browning the lamb in the bottom of the kettle. Then, add the vegetables, along with some chickpeas, tomato paste, and a blend of spices, such as cumin and coriander. Cover the ingredients with water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let simmer for about an hour, until the lamb is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Finally, add the couscous and steam for 10-15 minutes until the grains are fluffy.
Chicken and Chickpea Couscous
This flavorful and nutritious recipe is made with bone-in chicken thighs and chickpeas, along with a mix of spices, such as turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger. To make it in a kettle, first sear the chicken in the bottom of the kettle until it is golden brown. Then, add the spices, chickpeas, and chicken broth, along with some chopped onion and garlic. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. Add the couscous and steam for 10-15 minutes until it is tender.
Spicy Vegetable Couscous
This vegetarian recipe is bursting with flavor, thanks to a blend of spices, including paprika, cayenne, and saffron. To make it in a kettle, start by sautéing diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper in some olive oil. Then, add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and the spices. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 20-30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender. Add the couscous and steam for 10-15 minutes until it is fully cooked.
Fish and Tomato Couscous
This light and fresh recipe is a great option for seafood lovers. It features white fish, such as cod or haddock, combined with canned tomatoes, olives, and a splash of white wine. To make it in a kettle, start by cooking the fish in a separate pan, then set it aside. In the kettle, sauté some onion and garlic in olive oil, then add the tomatoes, olives, and wine. Add in the fish and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the flavors have melded together. Add the couscous and steam for 10-15 minutes until it is fluffy.
Meatball Couscous
This fun and delicious recipe features homemade meatballs, combined with a variety of vegetables and spices, including turmeric, cinnamon, and parsley. To make it in a kettle, first brown the meatballs in some oil, then set them aside. In the same kettle, sauté diced onion and garlic until fragrant, then add diced potatoes, turnips, and carrots. Add in some canned tomatoes, tomato paste, and spices. Cover with water and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 45 minutes, until the vegetables are tender. Add the meatballs and continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes. Finally, add the couscous and steam until tender and fluffy.
