Couscous Chicken Soup Recipe

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe is designed to serve 6 people. Ingredient amounts will adjust automatically if you scale the recipe, but cooking times and steps remain the same.

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 3 stalks celery, diced
• 1 1/4 pounds cooked chicken breast, cubed
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 tablespoon dried parsley flakes or dried dill
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 (5.4 ounce) boxes herb couscous mix (such as Near East Wild Mushroom & Herb Couscous Mix)

Directions

1. In a large stock pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Stir in the cubed chicken, chicken broth, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes to blend the flavors.
3. Add the herb couscous mix and cook for an additional 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the couscous is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
4. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately for a comforting meal.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 286
• Total Fat: 8g (10% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 3g (17% DV)
• Cholesterol: 97mg (32% DV)
• Sodium: 1513mg (66% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 18g (6% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (8% DV)
• Total Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 34g (68% DV)
• Vitamin C: 4mg (4% DV)
• Calcium: 55mg (4% DV)
• Iron: 2mg (10% DV)
• Potassium: 497mg (11% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Individual needs may vary. Nutrient information may not be available for all ingredients; amounts are estimated based on available data. If you follow a medically restrictive diet, consult your doctor or dietitian before preparing this recipe.

The History of Couscous Chicken Soup

Couscous chicken soup is a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and fluffy couscous in a rich broth. The roots of this soup trace back to North African cuisine, where couscous has been a staple for centuries. Traditionally, couscous was steamed over a simmering stew, often with chicken or lamb, and seasoned with regional spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Over time, the dish migrated and adapted to different parts of the world, particularly Europe and the United States, where it evolved into a hearty soup that can be made quickly using pre-packaged couscous mixes.

Regional Variations

While the base concept remains similar, regional differences influence the flavor profile of couscous chicken soup. In Morocco, the soup may include preserved lemons, olives, and a heavier blend of spices like saffron and ginger. Tunisian versions often feature harissa paste for heat. In the United States, the soup is usually milder, focusing on the natural flavors of chicken and vegetables, often using ready-made herb and mushroom couscous mixes to simplify preparation. These adaptations reflect local ingredients and dietary preferences while keeping the essence of the dish intact.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Couscous chicken soup differs from other chicken soups primarily in its use of couscous instead of noodles, rice, or potatoes. Unlike traditional chicken noodle soup, couscous absorbs the broth quickly, creating a slightly thicker and more textured consistency. Compared to Moroccan chicken stews, this soup is lighter and faster to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight meals. The inclusion of herbed couscous adds a fragrant complexity that distinguishes it from simpler broths.

Typical Serving Occasions

This soup is versatile and can be served in various contexts. It is often enjoyed as a starter for dinner parties or as a wholesome main dish for family lunches. In colder climates, it is a popular comfort food, providing warmth and nourishment. Restaurants may serve it in casual dining settings as part of a soup-and-salad combo or as a seasonal specialty during fall and winter. Its balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and grains makes it suitable for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Interesting Facts

• Couscous is one of the oldest grain preparations in the world, with origins dating back over a thousand years in the Maghreb region of North Africa.
• The soup can be customized with a variety of herbs and vegetables, allowing cooks to adapt it to personal taste or available ingredients.
• Using pre-flavored couscous mixes, like wild mushroom and herb, is a modern convenience that saves time while enhancing flavor.
• Couscous chicken soup is often considered a lighter alternative to cream-based soups, making it a healthier option without sacrificing richness.
• Despite its simplicity, the combination of vegetables, chicken, and couscous provides a well-rounded nutritional profile with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.

FAQ about Couscous Chicken Soup Recipe

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