Saffron Couscous

Saffron Couscous
  • PREP TIME
    15 mins
  • COOK TIME
    0 mins
  • TOTAL TIME
    50 mins
  • SERVING
    4 People
  • VIEWS
    6

Transform ordinary couscous into a vibrant, aromatic delight with this simple yet sophisticated recipe. Infused with the luxurious flavor of saffron and brightened with a medley of complementary ingredients, it's perfect as a light side, a vibrant salad, or a transportable lunch.

Ingridients

Adjust Servings

Nutrition

  • Carbohydrate
    43 g
  • Fiber
    3 g
  • Protein
    6 g
  • Saturated Fat
    1 g
  • Sodium
    236 mg
  • Sugar
    7 g
  • Fat
    7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat
    0 g

Follow The Directions

01

Step
5 mins

Bloom the Saffron: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and saffron threads. Allow to steep for at least 5 minutes to release the saffron's vibrant color and flavor. (5 minutes)

02

Step
7 mins

Prepare the Couscous: In a saucepan, combine the couscous and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then immediately remove from heat. Cover the saucepan tightly and let stand for 5 minutes, allowing the couscous to absorb the broth and become tender. (7 minutes)

03

Step
0 mins

Fluff and Combine: Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains and transfer it to a mixing bowl.

04

Step
3 mins

Incorporate the Flavor: Add the saffron mixture (water and threads) to the couscous, along with the diced celery, currants, olive oil, lemon juice, harissa paste, cumin, and salt. Stir gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly. (3 minutes)

05

Step
30 mins

Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the couscous to chill. Serve cold or at room temperature. (30 minutes)

For a richer flavor, toast the saffron threads lightly in a dry pan before steeping them in water.
Adjust the amount of harissa paste according to your spice preference. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
Feel free to add other dried fruits, nuts, or fresh herbs to customize the dish to your liking. Toasted almonds, pistachios, chopped parsley, or mint would all be excellent additions.
This dish is best when the flavors have had time to meld. Making it a day ahead is perfectly fine, and some would argue that it is even better the next day!

Buster Nikolaus

Written by

Our recipe authors are passionate food lovers who share thousands of diverse dishes from around the world. They bring daily cooking inspiration with delicious, easy-to-make recipes for every occasion.

RECIPE REVIEWS

Avarage Rating: 4.0/ 5 ( 2 Ratings)
Total Reviews: (8)
  • Kiel Walsh

    Substituted the currants for cranberries and it was amazing! Thank you for the great recipe!!

  • Elisabeth Gerlach

    My family loved this! Even my picky eater enjoyed it.

  • Enrique Grantjacobs

    I love how versatile this recipe is. I've served it as a side dish and as a light lunch.

  • Rosanna Corkery

    I added some toasted almonds for extra crunch, and it was a hit!

  • Vernon Hickle

    Such a simple way to elevate couscous. Will be making this all summer long!

  • Krystal Graham

    The harissa gives it a nice little kick. I'll definitely be making this again.

  • Baby Reinger

    I made this for a potluck, and it was gone in minutes!

  • Marilou Kassulke

    This was so easy to make and tasted fantastic! The saffron really makes it special.

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