Couscous Marrakchi
A flavorful and aromatic couscous dish from the Marrakchi region of Algeria, typically featuring tender lamb or chicken, a medley of vegetables, and a rich, spiced broth. This version focuses on a fragrant blend of spices and a variety of root vegetables.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Lamb shoulder or boneless chicken thighs(cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 500 g Medium-grain couscous(Ensure it's suitable for steaming or absorption method)
- 2 large Yellow onions(finely chopped)
- 400 g Crushed tomatoes(canned)
- 3 medium Carrots(peeled and cut into 1.5-inch chunks)
- 2 medium Turnips(peeled and cut into 1.5-inch chunks)
- 2 medium Zucchini(cut into 1.5-inch chunks)
- 200 g Cooked chickpeas(canned, drained and rinsed, or equivalent dried chickpeas soaked and cooked)
- 4 tbsp Olive oil
- 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 tbsp Fresh ginger(grated)
- 2 tbsp Ras el hanout spice blend
- 1 tsp Ground turmeric
- 1 tsp Ground cumin
- 1 small (approx. 2 inches) Cinnamon stick
- 0.5 tsp Saffron threads(soaked in 2 tbsp warm water for 10 minutes)
- 1.5 l Vegetable or chicken broth(low sodium preferred)
- 0.5 cup Fresh cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
- 0.5 cup Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Freshly ground black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Season the lamb or chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Sear the meat in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot, until deeply browned on all sides. This browning builds crucial flavor. Remove the seared meat to a plate and set aside.
- 2
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onions to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and translucent, about 6-8 minutes. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- 3
Stir in the ras el hanout, turmeric, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices release their aroma. This blooming process intensifies their flavor.
- 4
Return the seared meat (and any accumulated juices) to the pot. Add the crushed tomatoes, carrots, turnips, and the cinnamon stick. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and the soaked saffron with its water. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it simmer gently for 1 hour, or until the meat is becoming tender.
- 5
Add the zucchini chunks and the drained, rinsed chickpeas to the pot. Stir gently to incorporate. Cover again and continue to simmer for another 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the meat is fork-tender. The broth should have thickened slightly.
- 6
While the stew is finishing, prepare the couscous. The most traditional method is to steam it over the simmering stew. If using a couscous steamer, place the dry couscous in the top compartment and steam for 15-20 minutes, fluffing with a fork halfway through. Alternatively, prepare according to package directions, which usually involves pouring boiling water or broth over the couscous in a bowl, covering, and letting it absorb for 5-10 minutes, then fluffing with a fork. Ensure the couscous is light and fluffy.
- 7
Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Remove and discard the cinnamon stick. To serve, spoon a generous portion of fluffy couscous onto a large communal platter or individual serving bowls. Ladle the rich stew, ensuring a good distribution of meat, vegetables, and broth, over the couscous. Garnish liberally with fresh chopped cilantro and parsley.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For the most tender and flavorful result, lamb shoulder is highly recommended. Chicken thighs offer a lighter alternative.
- ✓Ras el hanout is a complex spice blend; adjust the amount to your preference. If unavailable, create a substitute using equal parts cumin, coriander, ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric, with a pinch of cloves and cardamom.
- ✓To achieve fluffy couscous, avoid over-stirring after preparation. A fork is best for fluffing.
- ✓The vegetables can be cut slightly larger if you prefer them to hold their shape more after cooking.
- ✓For a deeper flavor, the stew can be made a day ahead and reheated gently.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Incorporate other hearty root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, parsnips, or butternut squash along with the carrots and turnips.
- Add a handful of dried apricots or raisins during the last 30 minutes of simmering for a touch of sweetness.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely chopped fresh chili (like a serrano or jalapeño) along with the garlic and ginger.