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Have you ever found yourself craving something that's both comforting and exotic, something that warms you from the inside out? Well, look no further! My Moroccan Chickpea and Apricot Curry with Couscous is exactly that. This dish is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, with the chewy apricots complementing the earthy chickpeas perfectly. Its like a warm hug on a chilly evening, or a bright ray of sunshine on a dull day. I remember the first time I tried a similar dish at a small family-run restaurant in Marrakech. The explosion of flavors was unlike anything I had ever tasted, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. After many attempts and tweaks, I finally landed on this recipe, which I'm thrilled to share with you all.
One of the things I love most about this curry is its versatility. It's naturally vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by using agave or maple syrup instead of honey. It's also a fantastic way to use up pantry staples like chickpeas, dried apricots, and spices. Plus, its relatively quick and easy to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. What does this mean for you? It means you can whip up a delicious, healthy, and satisfying meal in under an hour, without having to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. Honestly, who has time for that these days? My goal is to provide reciepies that are easy to do and tasty to eat.
Required Equipments
Large pot or Dutch oven
Skillet
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Chef's knife
Wooden spoon
Serving bowls
Moroccan Chickpea and Apricot Curry with Couscous: Frequently Asked Questions
Moroccan Chickpea and Apricot Curry with Couscous
This Moroccan Chickpea and Apricot Curry is a flavorful vegetarian dish that combines the sweetness of apricots with the heartiness of chickpeas, all served over fluffy couscous. A perfect blend of sweet, savory, and exotic spices!
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield:4 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
First off, finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Nobody likes big chunks of onion in their curry, right?
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Keep stirring so it doesnt stick to the bottom. You know, burnt onions are the worst!
Add the minced garlic, ginger, and spices (turmeric, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and paprika) to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. The aroma should be amazing – like you're in a Moroccan spice market!
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), vegetable broth, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add the chickpeas, chopped dried apricots, and honey to the pot. Stir well and reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together and deepen. I usually let mine go for a full 45 mins while I catch up on my favorite show.
While the curry is simmering, prepare the couscous according to the package directions. Usually, this involves pouring boiling water over the couscous and letting it sit covered for about 5-10 minutes, then fluffing it with a fork.
Stir in the lemon juice and chopped cilantro into the curry. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or honey to balance the flavors. It's all about personal preference!
Serve the chickpea and apricot curry over a bed of fluffy couscous. Garnish with extra chopped cilantro and toasted almonds, if desired. A dollop of plain yogurt or a drizzle of olive oil can also be a nice touch.
If you want to add some extra flair, toast a handful of slivered almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant. Sprinkle them over the curry for added crunch and flavor.
📝 Notes
For a richer flavor, use coconut milk instead of vegetable broth.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
The kitchen is my happy place, where I can blend flavors and create memories that last a lifetime. This Moroccan curry is a perfect example – it's warm, comforting, and full of love.