Moroccan-Spiced Couscous with Chickpeas and Figs
Experience a delightful fusion of flavors with this Moroccan-Spiced Couscous featuring tender chickpeas and sweet figs. This aromatic dish is brimming with vibrant vegetables, including zucchini and green beans, all enhanced by a blend of warm spices that evoke the essence of traditional Moroccan cuisine. Perfect as a main course or a flavorful side dish, it’s both nutritious and satisfying. Share this comforting recipe at your next gathering or family dinner, and let the spices take you on a culinary journey.
4
Servings
300
Calories
22
Ingredients
Ingredients
Olive oil
2 tablespoons (None)
Onion
1 (Chopped)
Garlic cloves
2 (Finely chopped)
Moroccan mixed spice
2 teaspoons (See recipe for homemade spice mix (optional))
Chickpeas
2 (15 ounce) cans (Rinsed and drained)
Chopped tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can (None)
Vegetable stock
2 cups (None)
Zucchini
2 (Chopped)
Green beans
1 cup (Trimmed and halved)
Dried figs
1/2 cup (Chopped)
Couscous
2 cups (None)
Coriander leaves
2 tablespoons (Chopped)
Harissa or hot sauce
1 tablespoon (Optional, to taste)
Ground cumin
1 teaspoon (None)
Ground ginger
1 teaspoon (None)
Salt
1 teaspoon (None)
Black pepper
3/4 teaspoon (None)
Ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon (None)
Ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon (None)
Cayenne
1/2 teaspoon (None)
Ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon (None)
Ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon (None)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2
Add the chopped onion, finely chopped garlic, Moroccan spice mix, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onion is softened and translucent.
3
Stir in the rinsed and drained chickpeas, chopped tomatoes, and vegetable stock. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5
After 10 minutes, add the chopped zucchini, trimmed green beans, and chopped dried figs to the saucepan. Cook for an additional 5-8 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
6
While the vegetables are cooking, prepare the couscous. In a large heatproof bowl, add the couscous and pour over 2 cups of boiling water. Cover the bowl with a clean tea towel and let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the couscous to absorb the water.
7
After 5 minutes, fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains.
8
To serve, divide the fluffy couscous among plates, spoon the rich vegetable and chickpea mixture on top, and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Drizzle with harissa or hot sauce if desired for an extra kick.
Nutrition Information
8.5g
Fat
50g
Carbs
12g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main dish in this recipe?
The dish is Moroccan-Spiced Couscous with Chickpeas and Figs.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 4 servings.
How many calories are in one serving?
There are 300 calories per serving.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, it is tagged as a vegetarian and vegan-friendly recipe.
What are the primary proteins in this dish?
The primary protein source is chickpeas.
How much fat is in each serving?
Each serving contains 8.5g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 50g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is provided per serving?
Each serving provides 12g of protein.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 22 ingredients listed in total.
What type of fruit is used in this Moroccan dish?
Dried figs are used to add sweetness and texture.
What vegetables are included in the couscous mixture?
The recipe includes onion, zucchini, and green beans.
How do I prepare the couscous?
Place 2 cups of couscous in a bowl, pour over 2 cups of boiling water, cover for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
How long should I sauté the onions and garlic?
Sauté them for about 5 minutes or until the onion is softened and translucent.
What is the initial simmering time for the chickpea mixture?
The mixture should simmer for 10 minutes before adding the vegetables.
How long do the zucchini and green beans take to cook?
They should be cooked for an additional 5-8 minutes until tender.
What spices make up the Moroccan flavor profile?
The recipe uses cumin, ginger, cinnamon, coriander, cayenne, allspice, and cloves.
How much vegetable stock is needed?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of vegetable stock.
Should the chickpeas be prepared in a specific way?
Yes, they should be rinsed and drained from the can.
What garnish is recommended for this dish?
Freshly chopped coriander leaves are recommended as a garnish.
How can I add extra heat to the recipe?
You can drizzle the dish with harissa or hot sauce to taste.
How much olive oil is used for cooking?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
What is the amount of dried figs required?
You will need 1/2 cup of chopped dried figs.
What kind of tomatoes are used?
One 15-ounce can of chopped tomatoes is used.
How much salt and pepper should be added?
Use 1 teaspoon of salt and 3/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
What is the preparation for the green beans?
The green beans should be trimmed and halved.
Is there a specific way to fluff the couscous?
Yes, use a fork to separate the grains after they have absorbed the water.
What type of garlic preparation is needed?
The garlic cloves should be finely chopped.
How much ground cinnamon is included in the spice blend?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
Can I use a homemade spice mix?
Yes, the recipe suggests using a Moroccan mixed spice which can be homemade.
How is the dish served?
Divide the couscous among plates and spoon the vegetable and chickpea mixture on top.