Why You’ll Love this Sweet Couscous With Custard Recipe
When you try this Sweet Couscous With Custard recipe, you’ll quickly understand why it’s a favorite in my kitchen.
It’s the perfect blend of textures and flavors. The creamy custard pairs beautifully with the fluffy couscous, creating a delightful contrast. The nuts and dried fruits add a satisfying crunch and a touch of sweetness that elevates the dish.
I love how versatile it is, making it suitable for breakfast, dessert, or even a special occasion. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, so you won’t spend hours in the kitchen.
Trust me, this dish will become a cherished recipe in your home too!
Ingredients of Sweet Couscous With Custard
When it comes to sweet treats, this Sweet Couscous With Custard is like a warm hug on a plate. Imagine creamy custard slathered over fluffy couscous, with crunchy nuts and sweet dried fruits scattered throughout. It’s a delightful combination that’s sure to make your taste buds dance with joy.
Plus, the best part? You probably already have most of the ingredients tucked away in your pantry, which means you can whip this up without a last-minute grocery run. So, let’s gather our ingredients and get started on this tasty adventure!
Ingredients for Sweet Couscous With Custard:
- 2 cups low-fat milk
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 pinch salt
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon rose water
- 1 cup instant couscous, uncooked
- 1/2 cup blanched almonds
- 1/4 cup walnuts
- 1/4 cup seedless black raisins
- 8 pitted dates, chopped
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 2-3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for couscous)
- 2 tablespoons pistachios, ground
Now, while these ingredients might seem straightforward, let’s talk about a few personal touches. For instance, if you’re feeling a little adventurous, you could swap out the dried fruits or nuts for your favorites. Dried cranberries or pecans could add a fun twist.
And don’t fret about the low-fat milk; it keeps things light, but you could use whole milk if you’re in the mood for something richer. Just keep in mind, this dish is all about balance—sweet, creamy, crunchy. So, choose ingredients that will complement that beautiful harmony.
Ready to jump into the cooking process? Let’s go!
How to Make Sweet Couscous With Custard
Alright, let’s explore making this Sweet Couscous With Custard. First things first, grab that 2 cups of low-fat milk and pour it into a medium saucepan. We’re going to heat it up until it’s just about to boil.
While that’s happening, take your trusty mixing bowl and toss in 2 egg yolks, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Grab your whisk and beat it all together until the mixture turns a lovely pale yellow and thickens a bit. If you’ve ever tried to whip egg yolks, you know it can feel like a mini workout. But hey, at least it’s not CrossFit, right?
Now, here’s where things get a bit technical, but don’t worry—you’ve got this. Once your milk is boiling, you’ll want to gradually pour it into your egg mixture while stirring constantly. This is super important to avoid scrambling those precious yolks.
After you add the milk, pour the whole mixture back into the saucepan. Cook it over medium heat, stirring like your life depends on it, until it starts bubbling. Keep stirring vigorously for about 45 seconds to get that smooth custard consistency. Remove it from the heat and give it another vigorous stir for 30 seconds.
At this point, you can add in 1/4 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of rose water for that aromatic touch. Let it cool down a bit, then cover it with plastic wrap right on the surface to keep that pesky skin from forming and pop it into the fridge.
While the custard is chilling, we can tackle the couscous and nut mixture. First, toast 1/2 cup of blanched almonds in a dry pan until they’re golden brown—just watch them closely so they don’t burn, or you’ll be left with a smoky kitchen and a sad face.
Once they’re toasted, chop them and toss them into a food processor with 1/4 cup of walnuts, along with 1/4 cup of seedless black raisins and 8 chopped pitted dates. Blend it until it’s all nicely combined, and set it aside.
Now, for the couscous, follow the instructions on the package; you’ll need 1 cup of instant couscous, which should yield about 4 cups when cooked. Once it’s fluffy, stir in 1 tablespoon of melted unsalted butter and 2-3 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
Now, assembly time! Grab a 10-12 inch round serving dish. Spread that beautiful custard on the bottom, and then layer half of your couscous on top. Sprinkle that delicious nut mixture over it, and then finish off with the remaining couscous.
To top it all off, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of ground pistachios for that gorgeous finishing touch. And there you have it—sweet, creamy, and crunchy perfection. Just try not to eat it all in one sitting, even though you’ll be tempted. Enjoy this delightful dish that’s perfect for sharing, or not—no judgment here.
Sweet Couscous With Custard Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to put your own spin on Sweet Couscous With Custard, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate.
You can swap low-fat milk for almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Instead of egg yolks, try using silken tofu to create a vegan custard.
For added flavor, consider incorporating spices like cinnamon or cardamom. You might also mix in dried fruits like apricots or figs instead of raisins.
Experiment with different nuts, such as pecans or hazelnuts. Each adjustment can give your dish a unique twist while maintaining its delightful essence!
What to Serve with Sweet Couscous With Custard
Wondering what to pair with Sweet Couscous With Custard? I love serving it alongside fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or a fragrant mango, which adds a revitalizing contrast.
A dollop of whipped cream can bring an extra creaminess that’s delightful. You might also consider a light mint tea to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of cardamom can elevate the dish even further.
Don’t forget some crunchy biscotti on the side for texture. These pairings make every bite of couscous and custard feel even more indulgent!
Additional Tips & Notes
To make the most of your Sweet Couscous With Custard, I recommend prepping a few elements in advance.
Toast the almonds ahead of time for a richer flavor, and feel free to customize the dried fruits based on what you have. If you’re short on time, you can even use store-bought custard.
For a touch of elegance, serve the dish chilled and garnish with fresh mint.
Keep an eye on the consistency of your custard while cooking; it should be smooth and creamy.
Finally, don’t skip the rose water—it adds a delightful aroma that elevates the dish wonderfully!