-
Place the couscous on a tray and moisten with some water. Do this 2 –3 times as it expands while absorbing water.
-
Add the melted butter and mix them well by rubbing together between the palms of your hand until the couscous has absorbed the water and is no longer lumpy. Season lightly with salt and white pepper.
-
Transfer the couscous into a colander making a well in the middle. Place in a pot with same diameter filled with about 2 inches of water. Note that the water should not touch the couscous. Steam covered until tender but not overcooked. Cook for about 45 minutes.
-
While it is steaming, prepare the meat and vegetable soup by heating the olive oil and adding the onions, garlic and turmeric. Cook until it has a light flavor making sure it does not have the raw onion taste.
-
Add the cinnamon sticks, cinnamon powder and saffron and cook for about 3 minutes.Add the meat and brown lightly, followed by adding the stock.
-
Season very lightly and simmer covered for about 30 minutes or if the meat is 80 percent tender.
-
Then add the vegetables, taking care that they do not overcook or become mashed / soggy. Cook for another 15 minutes.
-
Season to desired taste.
-
Arrange the couscous on a round plate and place the meat and the vegetable decoratively.
-
Add some of the soup over it, making sure that they have extra stock so that they do not get dry.
-
You should serve it with extra bowl of soup, meat and vegetables on the side.
-
If available, add a little Harissa or chili paste for the spiciness.