Barefoot Contessa Steamed Couscous

Barefoot Contessa Steamed Couscous is made with yellow onions, chicken stock, unsalted butter, kosher salt, black pepper, and couscous. This recipe creates a light, fluffy side dish that perfectly complements rich mains like tagines or roasted meats. It takes about 25 minutes to prepare and serves 6.

Barefoot Contessa Steamed Couscous Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter
• 2 cups chopped yellow onions (2 onions)
• 3 cups good chicken stock, preferably homemade
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups couscous (12 ounces)

How To Make Barefoot Contessa Steamed Couscous

1. Sauté the Onions: Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and cook for 10 minutes until tender but not browned.
2. Boil the Stock: Add chicken stock, 1½ teaspoons salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. Bring to a full boil.
3. Steam the Couscous: Stir in couscous, turn off the heat, cover, and let steam for 10 minutes.
4. Fluff and Serve: Fluff the couscous with a fork and serve hot.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t Brown the Onions: Keep them tender and sweet by cooking gently.
• Use Good Stock: Homemade chicken stock gives the couscous rich depth.
• Fluff Thoroughly: Use a fork to separate grains and achieve a light texture.
• Add Herbs: For variety, stir in chopped parsley or mint just before serving.
• Make Ahead: Prep the broth and onions ahead, then steam fresh before serving.

What To Serve With Couscous

This couscous pairs wonderfully with Moroccan Lamb Tagine, roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or Mediterranean-style stews. It also makes a great base for grain bowls.

How To Store Couscous

Refrigerate: Store cooled couscous in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of stock.

Couscous Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 210
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Sodium: 480mg

FAQs

Can I use vegetable stock instead?
Yes, vegetable stock is a great alternative for a vegetarian version.

Is this couscous gluten-free?
No, traditional couscous contains wheat. Look for gluten-free alternatives if needed.

Can I add vegetables?
Yes, sautéed peppers, peas, or carrots can be mixed in for variety.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger saucepan and maintain the 1:1.5 couscous-to-liquid ratio.

How do I reheat couscous?
Add a splash of broth or water and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Try More Recipes:

• Barefoot Contessa Moroccan Lamb Tagine
• Barefoot Contessa Herbed Pork Tenderloins With Apple Chutney
• Barefoot Contessa Make-Ahead Roast Turkey