Moroccan-Style Chicken Stew with Couscous
This delightful Moroccan-inspired chicken stew is a celebration of aromatic spices and fresh vegetables, served with fluffy couscous that absorbs the rich flavors of the broth. Originating from Algerian cuisine, this comforting dish showcases tender chicken alongside vibrant green beans, carrots, and zucchini, making it both delicious and nourishing. Adaptable to different meats such as goat or lamb, this recipe is perfect for family gatherings and can easily be customized to suit your taste. The inclusion of chickpeas adds a protein boost, while spices like cumin and cayenne pepper elevate the flavor profile, creating a warm and inviting meal that's sure to satisfy your hunger and palate.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
16
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken broth
3 cups (Combine with bouillon cube)
chicken bouillon cube
1 (Dissolve in chicken broth)
onion
1 medium (Chopped)
green beans
2 cups (Cut (fresh or frozen))
carrots
2 (Sliced)
ground cumin
1 teaspoon (Dry spice)
dried basil
1 teaspoon (Dry spice)
garlic clove
1 (Minced (optional))
bay leaves
2 (Optional, removed before serving)
dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon (Dry spice (optional))
salt
to taste (Season to taste)
pepper
to taste (Season to taste)
tomatoes
2 medium (Chopped)
zucchini
1 medium (Sliced)
garbanzo beans
1 (16 ounce) can (Drained)
ground cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon (Adjust to taste)
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan, combine chicken broth and the chicken bouillon cube. Bring to a rolling boil.
2
Add chopped onion, cut green beans, sliced carrots, ground cumin, dried basil, minced garlic (if using), bay leaves (if using), dried parsley (if using), and salt and pepper to taste.
3
Reduce heat to low and cover the pan. Allow to simmer for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
4
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and sliced zucchini, cooking for an additional 3-5 minutes until the zucchini is tender.
5
Add the drained garbanzo beans and cayenne pepper. Stir well and cook until all ingredients are heated through, about 3-4 more minutes.
6
Remove bay leaves and adjust seasoning as needed.
7
Serve the stew hot over a bed of steaming couscous, allowing the couscous to soak up the flavorful broth.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Moroccan-Style Chicken Stew with Couscous?
It is a delightful Moroccan-inspired chicken stew celebrated for its aromatic spices and fresh vegetables, served over fluffy couscous.
What is the origin of this stew?
This dish originates from Algerian cuisine.
What vegetables are included in the recipe?
The recipe includes green beans, carrots, onions, zucchini, and chopped tomatoes.
How many cups of chicken broth are required?
The recipe requires 3 cups of chicken broth.
What meat alternatives can be used in this stew?
The recipe is adaptable to other meats such as goat or lamb.
How much ground cumin is used?
One teaspoon of ground cumin is used for spice.
When do I add the zucchini to the stew?
Add the sliced zucchini after the initial vegetables have simmered for about 8 minutes.
How long should the zucchini cook?
The zucchini should cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until tender.
What kind of beans are added to the stew?
One 16-ounce can of drained garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas, is added.
Is the garlic mandatory in this recipe?
No, the minced garlic clove is listed as an optional ingredient.
How many bay leaves are recommended?
The recipe suggests using 2 optional bay leaves.
What should I do with the bay leaves before serving?
You should remove the bay leaves from the stew before serving.
Is this recipe spicy?
It contains 1/4 teaspoon of ground cayenne pepper, which can be adjusted to suit your taste preference.
How is the stew served?
The stew is served hot over a bed of steaming couscous to allow the grains to soak up the broth.
What are the tags associated with this recipe?
Tags include chicken stew, couscous, Moroccan cuisine, Algerian recipes, hearty meals, comfort food, healthy stew, and family dinner.
How many carrots are needed for the stew?
The recipe calls for 2 sliced carrots.
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, you can use either fresh or frozen cut green beans.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to combine chicken broth and the bouillon cube in a large saucepan and bring them to a rolling boil.
How much dried basil is added?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of dried basil.
How do I prepare the onion?
One medium onion should be chopped before being added to the saucepan.
What type of parsley is used?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of optional dried parsley.
How many tomatoes are used?
The recipe uses 2 medium chopped tomatoes.
What is the purpose of the chicken bouillon cube?
The bouillon cube is dissolved in the broth to enhance the base flavor of the stew.
How long does the final simmering step take?
After adding the garbanzo beans and cayenne, cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until heated through.
Is this dish considered healthy?
Yes, it is described as a healthy and nourishing stew filled with fresh vegetables and protein-rich chickpeas.
How do I prepare the garbanzo beans?
The garbanzo beans should be drained before being added to the pot.
Can I adjust the salt and pepper?
Yes, salt and pepper should be added to taste.
What is the role of couscous in the meal?
Couscous acts as a base that absorbs the rich and flavorful broth from the chicken stew.
Is this recipe suitable for family gatherings?
Yes, it is a perfect meal for family gatherings and can be easily customized.
What is the total number of ingredients listed?
There are 16 ingredients listed for this recipe.