Libyan Sweet Couscous with Dates and Nuts
A delightful sweet variation of couscous, often served as a dessert or a special occasion dish. It features fluffy couscous steamed with aromatic spices, then mixed with sweet dates, crunchy nuts, and a touch of honey or syrup, offering a warm and comforting flavor profile.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Couscous(medium grain, not instant)
- 2.5 cups Water(for steaming couscous)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 3 tbsp Butter(unsalted)
- 0.5 cup Honey or simple syrup(adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp Cinnamon
- 0.5 tsp Ground cardamom
- 1 tsp Orange blossom water(optional)
- 1 cup Pitted dates(chopped)
- 0.5 cup Chopped nuts(almonds, pistachios, or walnuts, toasted)
- 0.25 cup Raisins(optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the couscous: In a large bowl, combine the couscous, salt, and 1 tablespoon of butter. Gradually add 2 cups of water, mixing with your hands until the grains are evenly moistened. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- 2
Steam the couscous: Place the moistened couscous in a couscous steamer or a colander set over a pot of simmering water. Cover and steam for 20 minutes. Remove from heat, transfer to a bowl, and fluff with a fork. Add another tablespoon of butter and a little more water if needed, then return to the steamer for another 20 minutes.
- 3
Prepare the sweet mixture: While the couscous is steaming for the second time, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in a small saucepan. Add the honey (or syrup), cinnamon, cardamom, and orange blossom water (if using). Stir to combine and warm gently.
- 4
Combine ingredients: Once the couscous is fully cooked and fluffed, transfer it to a large serving bowl. Pour the warm honey-butter mixture over the couscous and toss gently to combine. Fold in the chopped dates, toasted nuts, and raisins (if using).
- 5
Serve: Serve the sweet couscous warm as a dessert or a sweet treat.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure you use medium-grain couscous, not instant, for the best texture.
- ✓Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and crunch.
- ✓Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey/syrup to your preference.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a sprinkle of chopped pistachios for garnish.
- Incorporate other dried fruits like figs or cranberries.
- A few drops of rose water can be used instead of orange blossom water.