Couscous with a Tunisian Twist

At Mona’s Farm, we’re thrilled to bring the authentic flavors of Tunisian couscous into your kitchen. This Tunisian Lamb Couscous recipe combines tender lamb, hearty vegetables, and a blend of aromatic spices, making it the perfect dish for family gatherings or special occasions. With a little patience and attention to detail, you can recreate this traditional North African meal, complete with perfectly steamed couscous and a rich, flavorful sauce.

Ingredients:

• Medium Couscous (about 300g or enough for your serving size)

• Carrots (2-3, peeled and cut into chunks)

• Onions (1-2, chopped)

• Garlic (3-4 cloves, minced)

• Lamb Meat (4 pieces, cut into chunks)

• Potatoes (3-4, peeled and cut into quarters)

• Chickpeas (100g, soaked overnight or canned)

• Green Peppers (2-3, chopped)

• Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons)

• Paprika (1 teaspoon)

• Salt (to taste)

• Black Pepper (to taste)

• Fresh Tomatoes (3-4, chopped)

• Harissa (optional, to taste, for added spice)

• Olive Oil (for cooking)

  
  

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In the bottom of the couscoussier (a traditional steaming pot), heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly browned. Then, add the lamb chunks, searing them on all sides to lock in the flavor and color.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Next, stir in the tomato paste, chopped tomatoes, minced garlic, and harissa (optional, depending on your preferred level of spice). Mix everything well to combine. Add your spices (paprika, salt, and black pepper), and pour in just enough water to cover the meat and vegetables. Let this simmer and soak in the flavors for about 30 minutes.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

After 30 minutes, add the chickpeas and carrots to the pot, followed by potatoes (cut into quarters), zucchini (cut lengthwise into 2), turnip, and green peppers. Add more hot water to cover the vegetables and meat, and continue cooking over medium heat.

Step 4: Steam the Couscous

Now, for the couscous! Place the couscous pot (or Keskes) on top of your cooking pot. In a large mixing bowl, place the medium couscous and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add a pinch of salt and use your hands to rub the couscous gently, making sure it's evenly coated with oil and slightly separated. Let the couscous sit for about 30 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Steam the Couscous

After 30 minutes, pour the couscous into a large Gasaa (traditional couscous container). Sprinkle with a little salted water and rub the couscous between your hands to loosen the grains. Let it sit for a few minutes before returning it to the couscoussier for another round of steaming.

Step 6: Final Steam and Serve

Steam the couscous for a second time, ensuring it cooks through and becomes fluffy. Once done, transfer the couscous to a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil to add richness and flavor.

Step 7: Serve

To serve, arrange the meat and vegetables around the couscous. Pour the sauce over the couscous and vegetables, ensuring everything is well-coated and flavorful.

For a more traditional presentation, serve the couscous in a deep plate or large serving bowl, ensuring all the flavors are well combined. Enjoy this hearty and aromatic dish with a fresh green salad or a traditional Harira soup for a truly Tunisian experience.

Variations:

This recipe is versatile and can easily be adapted to suit different dietary preferences:

• Fish Couscous: Swap the lamb for your favorite fish (such as cod or sea bass) for a seafood twist.

• Vegetarian Couscous: Skip the meat entirely and add more vegetables like squash, eggplant, or pumpkin for a delicious plant-based option.

  
  

A Taste of History

Couscous has long been a beloved dish in North African cuisine, particularly among the Berber peoples of Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia. Dating back to the 11th-13th centuries, it has evolved over time but remains a staple of Tunisian family meals. Mona’s Farm brings this rich tradition to your table, offering the finest fresh vegetables, spices, and olive oil to help you create a dish that honors the flavors of Tunisia.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This traditional Tunisian couscous is a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender lamb, fresh vegetables, and fluffy couscous will transport you to the heart of Tunisia, while the rich sauce, simmered with spices and harissa, adds a perfect kick of heat and depth.

Make sure to check out Mona’s Farm for all your authentic Tunisian ingredients and cook up this classic couscous dishat home!

Enjoy your meal with a touch of Tunisia’s rich culinary heritage!