Moroccan Quinoa Couscous with Figs and Harissa Vinaigrette

Name: Moroccan Quinoa Couscous with Figs and Harissa Vinaigrette
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 1 cup quinoa; 1 cup couscous; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 cup dried figs; 1/4 cup almonds; 1/2 cup raisins; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon harissa paste; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons fresh mint; 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds

An aromatic fusion of spices, sweet figs, and a fiery harissa touch

This flavorful dish merges the heartiness of quinoa, the sweetness of figs, and a vibrant harissa vinaigrette, bringing a taste of the Moroccan landscape to your table.

1 h 10 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Quinoa Couscous

1 cup quinoa

rinsed and drained

1 cup couscous

2 cups vegetable broth

For the Fig Mixture

1/2 cup dried figs

chopped

1/4 cup almonds

sliced and toasted

1/2 cup raisins

For the Harissa Vinaigrette

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon harissa paste

1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Finish

2 tablespoons fresh mint

chopped

1/4 cup pomegranate seeds

Preparation

Preparing the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa

Rinse the quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear.

Do not overcook the quinoa – it should retain a slight bite.

Bring broth to a boil

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil.

Cook the quinoa

Add quinoa, cover, and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes or until fully cooked.

Preparing the Fig Mixture

Combine dried fruits and nuts

In a small bowl, combine the chopped figs, toasted almonds, and raisins.

Toast the almonds lightly to enhance their natural flavors.

Toss the mixture

Toss until well mixed.

Let flavors integrate

Set aside to allow flavors to integrate.

Cooking Process

Cooking Couscous

In a large bowl, pour 1 cup of boiling water over the couscous, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Combining Mixtures

Gently fold the cooked quinoa, couscous, and fig mixture together using a large spoon.

Applying Vinaigrette

Whisk together all vinaigrette ingredients and drizzle over the quinoa mix. Toss thoroughly.

Plating & Serving