Curried Couscous with Spinach and Chickpeas

Ingredients and Weight:

• Couscous: 500g
• Curry Paste: 2 tbsp
• Spinach: 200g
• Chickpeas: 1 cup (cooked)
• Red Bell Pepper: 1, diced
• Onion: 1, chopped
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Vegetable Stock: 1 cup
• Fresh lemon juice: 2 tbsp
• Coriander leaves: to garnish
• Salt and pepper: to taste

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 30 minutes
• Total: 50 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large pot, boil the vegetable stock.
2. Add the couscous and let it absorb the stock for about 5 minutes. Then set aside and let it cool slightly.
3. In a frying pan, heat some oil and add the chopped onions, diced red bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened.
4. Add the curry paste and cook for a minute or two, allowing the flavors to blend.
5. Stir in the cooked chickpeas and spinach, and cook until the spinach is just wilted.
6. Season with salt and pepper as per taste. Add fresh lemon juice to enhance the flavor.
7. Mix the cooked couscous with the vegetable curry mixture. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
8. Serve hot or warm, accompanied by a salad or other side dishes of your choice.

Nutritional Information: (per serving)

• Calories: Approx. 350-400 calories (depending on the ingredients used)
• Carbohydrates: Couscous is a good source of carbs.
• Protein: Provided by the chickpeas and couscous.
• Fiber: From the spinach and chickpeas.
• Fat: Oil used in cooking and small amounts from the curry paste.

Dish Characteristics:

• Fusion of Eastern and Western flavors, with a curry twist to the traditional couscous.
• Colorful and appetizing, with the addition of spinach and chickpeas adding texture and nutrition.
• Can be served as a main dish or as a side dish with other meats or vegetables.

User Comments:

1. "The flavors were amazing! The curry gave it a unique taste that my family loved."
2. "I added some raisins for extra flavor and they were a great addition."
3. "This is a great dish for a vegetarian meal or as a side for a meat-based dish."
4. "The texture of the couscous was perfect, not too dry and not too wet."
5. "A unique dish that my guests loved. Would definitely make it again."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use a good-quality curry paste to ensure the desired flavor. If you prefer a mild curry flavor, start with less curry paste and add more if needed.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
• Ensure that the spinach is not overcooked, as it should remain bright green in color and have a slightly crunchy texture.