Jollof Couscous Supreme

Background and History

Jollof Rice is a beloved West African dish with deep roots in the regions' culinary history. With its origin heavily debated among countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal, Jollof Rice is a symbol of celebration, gathering, and cultural pride. As global fusion cuisine gains popularity, traditional recipes like Jollof are being reinvented, and Jollof Couscous emerges as a unique twist. Couscous, a staple in North African cuisine, blends seamlessly with the vibrant flavors of Jollof, creating a dish that's both flavorful and versatile. This fusion celebrates the interconnectedness of African cultures while delivering a delightful culinary experience.

Ingredients

• Couscous - 2 cups
• Tomatoes - 3 large, pureed
• Red Bell Pepper - 2, chopped
• Onion - 1 large, chopped
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Ginger - 1 inch, grated
• Vegetable Broth - 2 cups
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Bay Leaf - 1
• Thyme - 1 teaspoon
• Curry Powder - 1 teaspoon
• Paprika - 1 teaspoon
• Cayenne Pepper - to taste
• Carrot - 1, diced
• Peas - 1 cup
• Green Beans - 1 cup, chopped
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Fresh Parsley - for garnish

Preparation

Step 1: Prepping the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, ensure all your ingredients are ready. Puree the tomatoes and chopped red bell peppers in a blender until smooth. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger. Dice the carrot and chop the green beans into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cooking the Base Sauce

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant. Add the blended tomato and red bell pepper mixture, bay leaf, thyme, curry powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

Step 3: Adding Vegetables and Flavor

Stir in the diced carrot, peas, and chopped green beans. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Preparing the Couscous

In a separate bowl, combine the couscous with a pinch of salt. Pour the hot vegetable broth mixture over the couscous and quickly cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap. Let it sit for about 5-7 minutes until the couscous is tender and has absorbed the flavors from the broth.

Cooking Process

Step 5: Bringing It All Together

Once the couscous is ready, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains. Gently mix the cooked couscous into the sauce and vegetable mixture in the pot. Ensure the couscous is coated with the rich Jollof sauce. Allow the Jollof Couscous to heat through for about 5 more minutes.

Step 6: Garnishing and Serving

Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish the Jollof Couscous with freshly chopped parsley to add a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot as a standalone meal or alongside grilled meats or vegetables.

Enjoying the Meal

The Jollof Couscous Supreme pairs beautifully with a refreshing salad or a side of grilled chicken or fish. Its robust flavors make it a perfect dish for gatherings and family meals. To elevate the experience, serve it with a chilled drink like a glass of pineapple juice or hibiscus tea, which complements the dish's spices wonderfully. Let the harmony of tastes transport you to the vibrant landscapes of West Africa while indulging in a comforting bite of Jollof Couscous Supreme.