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North African Couscous with Tofu and Vegetables

by Amira Haddad
A vibrant and flavorful North African-inspired dish, this couscous recipe is quick to assemble and perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal. Featuring a fragrant spice blend of coriander and turmeric, it provides a hearty plant-based protein boost from tofu.
Total Time
25 minutes
Difficulty
Easy

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Ingredients for 4 Servings

  • 2 tbsp
    Olive oil
  • 1/2 cup
    Red bell pepper, chopped
  • 4
    Scallions, chopped
  • 2 cloves
    Garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp
    Ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp
    Turmeric
  • 1 pinch
    Cayenne pepper
  • 2-3 cups
    Vegetable stock, hot
  • 3/4 lb
    Firm tofu, cubed
  • 1 cup
    Peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup
    Quick-cook couscous
  • 1 tbsp
    Vegan margarine
  • to taste
    Salt and black pepper

Time

  • Preparation Time
    10 minutes
  • Cooking Time
    15 minutes
  • Total Time
    25 minutes

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Method

  1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped red pepper, scallions, garlic, coriander, turmeric, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and the spices become fragrant.
  3. Stir in 2 cups of the hot vegetable stock and the cubed tofu. Simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes to allow the tofu to absorb the flavors.
  4. Add the peas and cook for 1 minute until just tender.
  5. Stir in the quick-cook couscous and the vegan margarine. Remove the pan from the heat immediately.
  6. Cover the pan and let it sit for 3 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed. Fluff with a fork before serving.
  7. If the couscous appears too dry, stir in the remaining vegetable stock until the desired consistency is reached. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Notes:

Pro-Tips for Success:
  • Ensure your vegetable stock is piping hot before adding it to the couscous to ensure proper rehydration.
  • For a more authentic flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or ground cumin to the spice mix.
  • To make this dish extra creamy, finish with a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving to brighten all the spices.
  • If you prefer more texture, toast the dry couscous in the pan with the spices for 1 minute before adding the stock.
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