Embark on a culinary journey to North Africa with this vibrant and aromatic Algerian Couscous. Tender meats and colorful vegetables simmer in a symphony of spices, served over fluffy couscous and drizzled with a fiery harissa sauce. A true feast for the senses!
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
Carbohydrate
57 g
Cholesterol
72 mg
Fiber
8 g
Protein
31 g
Saturated Fat
4 g
Sodium
358 mg
Sugar
7 g
Fat
16 g
Unsaturated Fat
0 g
Follow The Directions
01
Step
2 mins
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the mutton chops and chicken drumsticks generously with salt and pepper. Working in batches, brown the meat and onions in the hot oil until nicely colored, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a large plate. (5 minutes)
02
Step
20 mins
Using a wooden spoon, scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Return the mutton chops and chicken to the pot. Pour in enough water to completely cover the meat. Add the turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Cover the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer gently for 20 minutes. (25 minutes)
03
Step
10 mins
Add the potatoes, turnips, and carrots to the pot. Simmer, covered, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 10 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and ras el hanout. Cook for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. (20 minutes)
04
Step
10 mins
Stir in the chickpeas, zucchini, and cilantro. Continue cooking, covered, until the zucchini is tender, about 5 minutes. (5 minutes)
05
Step
5 mins
While the stew simmers, bring 3 cups of water to a boil in a separate saucepan. Remove from heat and stir in the couscous and butter. Cover the saucepan tightly and let stand until the water is completely absorbed, about 5-10 minutes. Fluff the couscous with a fork and stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Transfer to a serving dish. (10 minutes)
06
Step
10 mins
Ladle 2 scoops of the cooking liquid from the stew into a small bowl. Stir in the harissa until smooth, creating a spicy sauce. (2 minutes)
07
Step
Arrange the vegetables on a large serving plate. Place the mutton and chicken on a separate plate. Serve alongside the fluffy couscous, the harissa sauce, and the remaining cooking liquid from the pot in a serving bowl. (3 minutes)
For a richer flavor, consider using lamb or merguez sausage in addition to, or instead of, the mutton and chicken.
Ras el hanout is a complex spice blend, and the exact ingredients can vary. Use a high-quality blend for the best flavor.
Adjust the amount of harissa to your preference. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
Garnish with additional fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
The couscous can be prepared ahead of time and reheated gently before serving.
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Georgianna Bartoletti
Jun 23, 2025Next time, I'll try adding some dried apricots for sweetness.
Fatima Doyle
May 15, 2025I substituted lamb for the mutton, and it turned out great!
Lavinia Harvey
May 9, 2025My family devoured this! Will definitely be making it again.
Eve Will
Apr 30, 2025I added a can of diced tomatoes for extra acidity.
Joelle Waters
Apr 27, 2025This recipe is amazing! The flavors are so complex and delicious.
Mafalda Tremblay
Mar 5, 2025The harissa sauce adds the perfect amount of heat.
Emerson Lakin
Feb 24, 2025Easy to follow recipe and the result was fantastic.