What Is Moroccan Couscous? Discover Its Rich Tradition and Authentic Recipe
Sexsou, or Moroccan couscous, has become a major standard product of life in Morocco, which is made from semolina of hard wheat. It can be a family dinner or served during holidays and at feasts or receptions to portray hospitality and community spirit. And much more is at stake with couscous than what is visible to the human eye!
Fine grain is steamed, fluffed to perfection, and then made up to taste with a fine array of vegetables, meats, and sometimes dried fruits or nuts. It is versatile, hearty, and so very satisfying. Moroccan couscous is for everyone: the lamb-lover, the chicken-lover, and the vegetarian.
Roots of Couscous
Have you ever thought about why couscous has become so native in Morocco? This is not just a meal. It has deep roots that go back to the Berbers, the original inhabitants of North Africa. Couscous has been a tradition for many years in Moroccan culture, passed down through generations. More than food, it is life!
The Friday Tradition
Imagine a Friday afternoon. Imagine the family gathering around a large couscous platter. It’s a tradition in many Moroccan homes. The act of sharing couscous promotes unity and reflects the warmth of Moroccan hospitality.
How It's Made
Making traditional Moroccan couscous is no simple task! It demands patience, expertise, and attention. It starts by gently hand-rolling semolina flour into tiny granules. These granules are steamed above low fire ‘tagine’, which is in the form of a stew.
Couscous should be steamed and fluffed several times until it is light and airy, ready to absorb the rich flavors from the broth. Seasonal vegetables, such as carrots, zucchinis, pumpkin, and chickpeas, are cut into small, tender pieces and added along with the meat.
A Simple Recipe: Traditional Moroccan Couscous
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Couscous grains | 2 cups |
| Chicken/ lamb | 1 kg |
| Carrots | 2, chopped |
| Zucchini | 2, sliced |
| Chickpeas | 1 cup, soaked |
| Pumpkin | 1 small, diced |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Spices (cumin, coriander, cinnamon) | To taste |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
How to Prepare Couscous
Steam the couscous grains over boiling water, fluffing them every 10-15 minutes. You will obtain light couscous at the end.
How to Prepare Meat and Vegetables
Sauté onions, spices, and olive oil in a large pot. Add the meat to brown. Add the carrots, zucchini, pumpkin, and chickpeas with water and simmer until tender.
Combine and Serve
Pile the couscous into a large dish and spoon the meat and vegetables over it. Drizzle some of the broth for extra flavor. Isn’t that simple and delicious?
Health Benefits of Couscous
Couscous is not only delicious but also filled with benefits. One such benefit is that it acts as an excellent source of carbohydrates, energizing the body. It also contains a good amount of fiber, aiding digestion.
Where to Try Authentic Moroccan Couscous
Marrakech: Visit a local around Jemaa el-Fnaa square for the tastiest couscous.
Fez: Known for its rich culinary heritage, Fez offers one of the most authentic couscous recipes.
Chefchaouen: While known for its beauty, the food in Chefchaouen, especially couscous, is equally magical.
Why not try Moroccan couscous as your next culinary experience? Whether you travel to Morocco or not, couscous from Morocco builds a circle of tradition, taste, and togetherness.
Have you ever tried couscous? How do you like this Moroccan classic prepared best? Let me know in the comments below and do share your couscous dishes with us!