Welcome, food lovers! If you’re on the hunt for a new exciting recipe to try, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re delving into the rich and aromatic world of Mediterranean cuisine to bring you a delicious dish that will tantalize your taste buds: Veal couscous with raisins and pine nuts. And not just any couscous, we’ll be using the exquisite Pearl Couscous from RiceSelect. Now, let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Before we dive into the preparation, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this delectable veal couscous:
For the Veal:
1 pound veal, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup vegetable broth
For the Couscous:
1 cup RiceSelect Pearl Couscous Get it here: https://riceselect.com/product/riceselect-pearl-couscous
2 cups water
1/2 cup raisins
1/4 cup pine nuts
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s start preparing this tantalizing veal couscous dish:
Step 1
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant.
Step 2
Add the veal cubes to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. This will take approximately 5 minutes.
Step 3
Sprinkle the ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and pepper over the veal cubes. Stir well to ensure the spices coat the meat evenly.
Step 4
Pour the vegetable broth into the skillet, cover, and let the veal simmer for about 30 minutes, or until it becomes tender and juicy.
Step 5
In a separate pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the RiceSelect Pearl Couscous and cook according to the package instructions until the couscous is tender.
Step 6
Once the couscous is cooked, drain any excess water and transfer it to a serving dish.
Step 7
Stir in the raisins and pine nuts, distributing them evenly throughout the couscous.
Step 8
To serve, place a generous portion of the veal cubes on top of the couscous.
Step 9
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an added touch of freshness.
Step 10
Enjoy your Veal Couscous with Raisins and Pine Nuts while it’s still warm!
Nutritional Benefits Of This Recipe
When it comes to nourishing your body, the Veal Couscous with Raisins and Pine Nuts recipe offers a wide array of nutritional benefits. Let’s delve into the goodness this dish brings to the table:
Lean Protein: Veal serves as an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Protein also helps in maintaining a feeling of fullness, making this dish satisfying and ideal for those looking to manage their weight.
Essential Nutrients: This recipe packs a punch of essential nutrients, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Iron is vital for oxygen transport in the body, while zinc supports the immune system and promotes wound healing. Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in energy production and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Fiber-Rich Couscous: The RiceSelect Pearl Couscous used in this recipe is a nutritious alternative to traditional couscous. It contains higher amounts of fiber, which aids in digestion, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and promotes a healthy gut.
Healthy Fats: The addition of pine nuts introduces healthy fats to the dish. These nuts are a rich source of monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Antioxidants: Raisins, a key ingredient in this recipe, are packed with antioxidants that help protect the body against cellular damage caused by harmful free radicals. These antioxidants contribute to overall health and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Secret Tips For Preparation
Creating the perfect veal couscous requires a few secrets that will take your dish to the next level. Here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Marinating the veal cubes in olive oil, garlic, and spices for a few hours before cooking will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
- Toasting the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until they turn golden brown will intensify their nutty aroma and add a delightful crunch to your dish.
- If you prefer a sweeter couscous, you can soak the raisins in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the dish. This will plump them up and make them even juicier.
Perfect Pairings
Now that you have prepared this exquisite veal couscous, you might be wondering what dishes would pair well with it. Here are a few suggestions:
Herb-Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers seasoned with fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary complement the flavors of the veal couscous perfectly.
Minty Yogurt Sauce: A refreshing mint and yogurt sauce served on the side adds a cool and tangy element to the dish, balancing out the richness of the veal.
Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans sprinkled with sea salt make for a simple yet delightful side dish that complements the veal couscous.
Proper Storage
If you happen to have any leftovers, it’s important to store them correctly to maintain their freshness. Here’s how:
- Separate the veal and couscous and store them in airtight containers.
- Refrigerate the veal for up to 3 days and the couscous for up to 5 days.
- When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to the veal to prevent it from drying out, and fluff the couscous with a fork before serving.
There you have it: an exquisite, flavorful, and hearty dish perfect for any day of the week. The RiceSelect Pearl Couscous truly shines in this recipe, offering a delightful texture and nutty taste that will elevate your culinary experience.
Remember, cooking is an art, so feel free to tweak the recipe as you wish, and most importantly, Enjoy this delightful meal with your loved ones, and savor every bite of this flavorful and aromatic veal couscous with raisins and pine nuts. Bon appétit!
