Herb-Infused Couscous with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your dining experience with this Herb-Infused Couscous with Caramelized Onions. This delightful dish combines the nutty flavors of couscous with perfectly caramelized onions and aromatic garlic, all brought together by a rich chicken stock. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, it makes for an exquisite side that complements a wide range of main dishes while bringing a touch of elegance to your table. Perfect for gatherings or as a simple weeknight treat, this couscous is sure to impress your family and friends.
4
Servings
106
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
30 g (melted)
onion
1 (finely sliced)
garlic clove
1-2 (crushed)
couscous
1 cup (uncooked)
chicken stock
2 cups (warm)
fresh coriander or parsley
2 tablespoons (chopped)
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan with a lid, melt the butter over medium heat.
2
Add the finely sliced onions, stirring frequently, and cook until they become soft and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3
Once the onions are caramelized, add the crushed garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4
Stir in the couscous, ensuring it is well-coated with the buttery onion mixture.
5
Pour in the chicken stock and give it a gentle stir to combine. Bring to a boil.
6
As soon as the mixture reaches a boil, remove the saucepan from the heat, cover it with the lid, and let it stand for 5 minutes.
7
After 5 minutes, fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains.
8
Fold in the fresh chopped coriander or parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9
Serve warm as a delicious side dish that is perfect for any occasion.
Nutrition Information
4.5 g
Fat
15 g
Carbs
2.5 g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Herb-Infused Couscous with Caramelized Onions?
It is an elegant side dish that combines nutty couscous with golden caramelized onions, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs cooked in chicken stock.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
How many calories are in one serving of this couscous?
Each serving contains approximately 106 calories.
What are the main ingredients required?
The main ingredients include butter, onion, garlic, couscous, chicken stock, and fresh coriander or parsley.
How long does it take to caramelize the onions?
The onions should be cooked over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and golden brown.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
The recipe uses chicken stock, but it can be made vegetarian by substituting it with vegetable stock.
How long should the couscous sit after cooking?
Once the stock reaches a boil and the pan is removed from the heat, the couscous should stand covered for 5 minutes.
What herbs are recommended for this dish?
Fresh chopped coriander or parsley are the recommended herbs for finishing this dish.
How do I ensure the couscous grains are separate and not clumpy?
After the 5-minute standing time, use a fork to fluff the couscous, which helps separate the individual grains.
Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute butter with olive oil for a different flavor profile or to make the dish dairy-free.
How much butter is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 30 grams of melted butter.
How much couscous is needed?
You will need 1 cup of uncooked couscous.
What is the ratio of chicken stock to couscous?
The ratio used in this recipe is 2 cups of chicken stock for 1 cup of couscous.
How should the garlic be prepared?
The 1-2 garlic cloves should be crushed before being added to the pan.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides about 2.5 grams of protein.
How much fat is in this dish?
There are 4.5 grams of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate count per serving?
There are 15 grams of carbohydrates in each serving.
How should I prepare the onion?
The onion should be finely sliced to ensure even caramelization.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can easily fold in roasted vegetables or sautéed spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, standard couscous is made from semolina wheat and contains gluten.
What is the best way to serve this dish?
It is best served warm as a side dish alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or fish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I reheat this couscous?
Yes, reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a small splash of water or stock to keep it moist.
Can I use Israeli (Pearl) couscous instead?
You can, but Pearl couscous requires a longer simmering time on the heat rather than just standing in hot liquid.
What is the total number of ingredients?
This recipe uses 8 specific ingredients including seasonings.
When should I add the fresh herbs?
Fold in the fresh herbs at the very end after the couscous has been fluffed.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit?
Yes, toasted pine nuts, slivered almonds, or raisins would make excellent additions to this dish.
What heat level should I use for the onions?
Use medium heat to prevent the butter and onions from burning while they caramelize.
Does this dish contain cholesterol?
The provided nutrition data does not specify the exact cholesterol amount, but the butter will contribute a small amount.
Is this a quick meal option?
Yes, it is tagged as a quick meal and an easy recipe, perfect for busy weeknights.