Moroccan Chickpea Couscous

Name: Moroccan Chickpea Couscous
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Moroccan
Ingredients: 1 cup instant couscous; 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 yellow bell pepper, diced; 1 medium zucchini, sliced thinly; 1 small red onion, chopped; 2 tsp cumin; 2 tsp coriander; 1 tsp cinnamon; 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

Published: April 26, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Moroccan Chickpea Couscous is not only easy to whip up but also packed with flavor and nutrients.
It’s visually stunning with its colorful ingredients and can easily be customized based on what you have in your pantry.
Perfect as a side dish or a main course, it satisfies both vegetarians and meat lovers alike.

I vividly remember making this dish for my friend’s potluck. Everyone devoured it within minutes, leaving me with nothing but an empty bowl and the echo of their compliments.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious Mediterranean steak bowls.

Couscous: Opt for instant couscous; it’s quick to prepare and absorbs flavors beautifully.
Canned Chickpeas: Drain and rinse these little gems to keep them healthy and tasty.
Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth for a balanced flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
Bell Peppers: Choose vibrant colors like red, yellow, and orange for a visually appealing dish.
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a lovely crunch; slice it thinly for even cooking.
Red Onion: Sweet red onions provide a great flavor foundation; sauté until soft and fragrant.
Spices (Cumin, Coriander, Cinnamon): These spices bring warmth and depth to the dish; use fresh if possible.
Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: Add at the end for freshness; choose according to your preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Couscous: Start by boiling vegetable broth in a medium saucepan. Once boiling, add couscous, stir well, cover tightly, and remove from heat. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until fluffy.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, toss in chopped red onion and sauté until translucent and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Bell Peppers & Zucchini: Stir in diced bell peppers and zucchini. Cook until they soften slightly but still retain their crunch; this should take about 5-7 minutes.

Add Spices & Chickpeas: Sprinkle cumin, coriander, cinnamon over vegetables while stirring in rinsed chickpeas. Mix well until fragrant; let it cook for another 3-4 minutes. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.

Combine Everything Together: Fluff the couscous with a fork before adding it into the skillet. Gently mix everything together until well combined; let those flavors mingle for another couple of minutes.

Finish with Fresh Herbs: Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley or cilantro just before serving. Serve warm alongside grilled meat or as a satisfying standalone meal.

Now that you’ve got this delightful Moroccan Chickpea Couscous ready to go, gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy each bite! tropical pineapple mango bruschetta.

You Must Know

This Moroccan Chickpea Couscous recipe is not just a dish; it’s a culinary adventure.
The blend of spices and textures will transport you straight to the vibrant markets of Marrakech.
With its comforting flavors and colorful presentation, it’s bound to impress at any gathering.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the couscous and steaming the chickpeas separately to ensure even texture and flavor absorption. Combine everything in the final step for a harmonious blend.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chickpeas for lentils or add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. A splash of lemon juice can elevate flavors beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to retain moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always rinse canned chickpeas before using them; this removes excess sodium and improves flavor.
Toasting spices enhances their aroma, making your dish more aromatic and irresistible.
Lastly, don’t skip the fresh herbs—they bring freshness that brightens every bite!

Cooking this Moroccan Chickpea Couscous has become my go-to for impressing dinner guests, leaving them clamoring for seconds and asking for the recipe!

FAQ

What can I substitute for couscous?

You can use quinoa or bulgur wheat if you prefer gluten-free options.

How long does it take to cook chickpeas?

Dried chickpeas need around two hours, while canned ones are ready in minutes.

Can I make this dish vegan-friendly?

Yes, this Moroccan Chickpea Couscous is naturally vegan and packed with plant-based protein! For more inspiration, check out this Baked Apples with Feta recipe.

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📖 Recipe Card