Welcome to the delightful world of Mendocino Farms Curried Couscous!
This vibrant dish combines the nutty goodness of Israeli couscous with the bold flavors of roasted cauliflower, all kissed by a fragrant blend of spices.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious home cook, this recipe promises to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
Gather these flavorful ingredients:
1 box (8 oz) Israeli couscous or orzo
1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 tablespoon turmeric
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1/2 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
3 tablespoons brown sugar
3 tablespoons oil
2 small carrots, peeled and diced
1 cup vegenaise (or mayonnaise)
1/2 bunch of cilantro, chopped
Juice of 1/2 lime
Additional cayenne, sugar, and salt to taste
Equipment
For this culinary adventure, you’ll need:
Medium mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Whisk
Fork
Instructions
Cook the Couscous:
Prepare the couscous or orzo according to the instructions on the box.
Rinse it in cold water, drain well, and place it in a bowl.
Roast the Cauliflower:
Heat your oven to 450°F.
Toss the cauliflower florets with curry powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, salt, brown sugar, and oil.
Spread them out on a lined baking sheet and roast for about 10 minutes until the cauliflower edges are browned but still crunchy.
Roast the Carrots:
On the same baking sheet, toss the diced carrots with any leftover spices and oil.
Roast until the carrots are browned around the edges but still maintain their crunch (about 8 minutes).
Combine Everything:
Add the roasted cauliflower and carrots to the couscous.
Mix in the vegenaise, chopped cilantro, and lime juice.
Adjust the seasoning to your desired consistency and spice level.
Nutritional Facts:
This curried couscous is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. It’s rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Health Benefits
Cauliflower Power: Cauliflower is a cruciferous vegetable packed with vitamins C and K, as well as fiber.
Spice It Up: The curry, turmeric, and cayenne provide anti-inflammatory properties.
Carrot Crunch: Carrots contribute beta-carotene and promote healthy vision.
FAQs
Can I use regular couscous instead of Israeli couscous?
Absolutely!
Regular couscous works well too.
Is this dish suitable for vegans?
Yes!
Vegenaise keeps it plant-based.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Certainly!
Prepare it in advance and refrigerate until serving.
What can I serve with this curried couscous?
It pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables or as a side for roasted chicken.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Of course!
Add more or less cayenne to suit your taste.