Whole Wheat Couscous
Fluffy, nutty whole wheat couscous is the perfect quick side dish. Ready in just 10 minutes, it's a healthy and versatile base for stews, grilled vegetables, or hearty salads.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 5 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Boil the liquid
- b.In a medium saucepan, combine the vegetable broth, olive oil, and salt.
- c.Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Add and steep the couscous
- b.Once the broth is boiling, pour in the whole wheat couscous.
- c.Give it one quick stir to combine, then immediately remove the saucepan from the heat.
- d.Cover the pan tightly with a lid to trap the steam.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Let it steam
- b.Let the couscous stand, covered and off the heat, for 5-7 minutes.
- c.Do not lift the lid during this time. The trapped steam is what cooks the grains perfectly.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Fluff and serve
- b.After the resting time, remove the lid.
- c.Use a fork to gently fluff the couscous, separating the grains.
- d.Season with freshly ground black pepper and serve warm.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra flavor, toast the dry couscous in the saucepan with the olive oil for 1-2 minutes before adding the broth.
- 2Don't peek while the couscous is steaming. Keeping the lid on is crucial for trapping the steam needed to cook it perfectly.
- 3Stir in fresh herbs like chopped parsley, cilantro, or mint after fluffing for a burst of freshness.
- 4Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some zest at the end for a bright, citrusy note.
- 5For a richer dish, stir in a tablespoon of butter along with the olive oil.
- 6Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It's great for meal prep.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
This recipe is already vegan. Ensure your vegetable broth does not contain any dairy or animal products.
gluten freeGluten free
Couscous contains gluten. For a gluten-free alternative, substitute with an equal amount of quinoa and adjust the liquid and cooking time according to package directions.
healthyHealthy
To enhance the health benefits, use low-sodium vegetable broth and add 1/2 cup of chickpeas or lentils for extra protein and fiber.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Stir in some finely grated carrots or zucchini after fluffing the couscous to sneak in extra vegetables. A small amount of grated parmesan cheese can also make it more appealing to kids.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Whole wheat couscous is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness.
Good Source of Plant-Based Protein
It provides a decent amount of plant-based protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.
Provides Selenium
Couscous is a great source of selenium, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body from damage caused by free radicals and supports immune function.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, whole wheat couscous is a healthy choice. It's a good source of fiber, which aids digestion, and provides plant-based protein and essential minerals like selenium. It's a healthier alternative to regular couscous.