One-Pot Couscous with Merguez Meatballs

Name: One-Pot Couscous with Merguez Meatballs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 400 g merguez sausage (casings removed); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup couscous; 1 cup chicken broth (hot); 1 onion (chopped); 1 red bell pepper (chopped); 1 zucchini (chopped); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon pepper; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

50 min 4 servings Medium

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Savoury one-pot couscous with spicy merguez meatballs, perfect for a hearty meal.

Prep

20 min

Cook

30 min

Total

50 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

One-Pot Couscous with Merguez Meatballs is a delicious and convenient meal that captures the essence of North African cuisine. The spicy and flavourful merguez sausage, made from lamb and beef, adds a unique twist to the traditional couscous dish. This dish is perfect for those nights when you want a hearty and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of spices, vegetables, and couscous creates a comforting and aromatic experience that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Morocco.

Instructions

Prepare the Merguez Meatballs

Remove the casings from the merguez sausage and form into small meatballs, about 2.5 cm (1 inch) in diameter.

Pro tip: Ensure meatballs are evenly sized for consistent cooking.

Sauté the Meatballs

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.

Pro tip: Do not overcrowd the pot to ensure even browning.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, add chopped onion, red bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté for 5 minutes until soft.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Toast the Couscous

Add the couscous to the pot and toast for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.

Pro tip: Toasting the couscous enhances its nutty flavour.

Combine Ingredients

Return the meatballs to the pot. Add hot chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Pro tip: Ensure all couscous is submerged in the broth.

Simmer and Serve

Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes. Fluff couscous with a fork and stir in fresh parsley before serving.

Pro tip: Letting the couscous sit covered allows it to absorb all the flavours.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use a large enough pot to accommodate the couscous as it expands.
Merguez sausages can be spicy; adjust seasoning accordingly.
Toasting couscous before adding liquid enhances flavour.
Make sure the merguez meatballs are evenly sized for consistent cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is couscous au saucisse?

Couscous au saucisse is a dish featuring couscous served with sausage, often merguez, a spicy North African sausage.

How do you make couscous with merguez?

To make couscous with merguez, cook merguez meatballs, sauté vegetables, toast couscous, then simmer with broth and spices until tender.

What spices are used in couscous aux merguez?

Common spices include cumin and smoked paprika, which complement the spicy flavour of merguez sausage.

How spicy is merguez sausage?

Merguez sausage is typically spicy, made with harissa and spices, but heat levels can vary by brand.

Can I use a different sausage for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute merguez with other spicy sausages, but the flavour will differ slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this one-pot couscous with a side of harissa sauce for an extra kick of heat. A light cucumber and mint yogurt salad pairs well, balancing the spice with cool freshness. This dish can be prepared ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to rehydrate the couscous.

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

25g

Protein

18g

Fat

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