Craving a luxurious vegetarian dinner? This pearl couscous in saffron broth is the perfect way to begin—a creamy, golden-hued dish that’s both elegant and flavorful. If you’re on the hunt for a simple, delicious vegetarian saffron recipe to add to your collection, keep reading!
INGREDIENTS
- 2 teaspoons neutral oil
- 1 yellow onion, peeled and minced
- 4 ounces beech mushrooms, trimmed and separated
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 teaspoons Aleppo pepper flakes (or substitute with ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper and ½ teaspoon sweet paprika)
- 1 cup pearl couscous
- 15-ounce can navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 5 cups water or stock (divided)
- A pinch of saffron threads
- ¼ cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh watercress leaves or minced parsley
- Aleppo pepper flakes
- Crusty bread
INSTRUCTIONS
- Cook the Aromatics: Heat oil in a wide pot over medium-high heat. Add the minced onion and cook for 5–7 minutes, until softened. Add the mushrooms and cook for another 7–8 minutes, until they begin to brown. Season with salt and pepper.
- Toast the Couscous: Melt the butter into the pot. Once the butter is frothy, add the Aleppo pepper and pearl couscous. Cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing the couscous to toast.
- Simmer the Broth: Add the navy beans and 4 cups of water or broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, until the couscous is al dente. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bloom the Saffron: Heat the remaining 1 cup of water in the microwave for 45 seconds until warm. Add the saffron threads and set aside while the broth simmers.
- Finish the Broth: Stir the saffron-infused water and cream into the pot. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Turn off the heat.
- Serve: Ladle the couscous into shallow bowls. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and garnish with fresh watercress or minced parsley. Sprinkle with Aleppo pepper flakes. Serve with crusty bread on the side.
NUTRITION (PER SERVING)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 10g
- Sodium: 431mg
- Fiber: 7g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin C: 3mg
