Bahr El-Gazal Citrus Couscous

Recipe Background

Bahr El-Gazal Citrus Couscous is a vibrant North African dish that beautifully intertwines the savory flavors of spices with the refreshing zest of citrus. Originating from the Sahel region, this dish reflects the rich cultural tapestry of North Africa, where influences from the Mediterranean and the Sahara blend seamlessly. Couscous itself is a staple in many households, serving as a versatile base that absorbs the delightful flavors of its accompaniments. The Bahr El-Gazal variant incorporates citrus notes that add a refreshing tang to the earthy taste of the couscous, creating a harmonious balance between the slightly nutty undertones and the bright, acidic punch of citrus fruits.

Ingredients

• Couscous - 200g
• Lemon - 1, juiced and zested
• Orange - 1, juiced and zested
• Olive Oil - 2 tbsp
• Chicken Broth - 250ml
• Chickpeas - 100g, cooked
• Red Bell Pepper - 1, diced
• Green Onions - 2, chopped
• Parsley - 1/4 cup, chopped
• Mint - 1/4 cup, chopped
• Cumin - 1 tsp
• Coriander - 1 tsp
• Salt - to taste
• Pepper - to taste

Preparation

Preparing the Couscous

Begin by placing couscous in a large bowl. In a small saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Remove from heat and pour it over the couscous. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let it sit for about 5 minutes. The couscous will absorb the broth and become tender.

Mixing the Flavors

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, orange juice, and olive oil. Add cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well combined. This dressing will be absorbed by the couscous, imparting a citrusy flavor.

Cooking Process

Building the Dish

Fluff the prepared couscous with a fork to ensure it doesn't clump together. Stir in the chickpeas, red bell pepper, green onions, parsley, and mint. Mix gently to combine.

Adding the Citrus

Pour the citrus dressing over the couscous mixture and toss everything well to ensure the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly. Finish by adding the zests of the lemon and orange for a burst of additional flavor.

Cooking Time

Allow the couscous to stand for a few more minutes, absorbing the dressing and allowing flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. The dish is now ready to serve after approximately 20 minutes of preparation time and resting.

How to Enjoy Bahr El-Gazal Citrus Couscous

Bahr El-Gazal Citrus Couscous is best enjoyed as a standalone dish or as a vibrant side dish to grilled meats such as chicken or lamb. The refreshing citrus notes make it an ideal accompaniment for barbecues or casual gatherings. Serve at room temperature, garnished with additional fresh mint leaves for a touch of freshness. Enjoy it with a cool glass of iced tea or a light white wine to complement the dish's refreshing qualities.