Curried Couscous

by Laura Altamirano

December 25, 2025

Prep15 min
Cook20 min
Servings8-10

Bring this to a picnic! Make this recipe a day ahead of using it.

Ingredients

Olive Oil1 Tbsp + More for drizzlying veggies
Israeli Pearl Couscous1/2 Lb
Water3 1/3 Cup
Light Brown Sugar1 Tbsp
Curry Powder1 1/2 Tbsp
Turmeric1/2 Tbsp
Salt3/4 tsp
Coriander1/2 tsp
Cumin1/2 tsp
Cayenne Pepper1/4 tsp
Cauliflower1/2 head or ~2 Cups
Carrot (peeled, 1/8" cubes)1 small
Mayonnaise1/2 Cup
Cilantro (minced)1/4 Cup
Lime Juice1 Tbsp

Directions

  1. In a medium pot, heat the oil over medium-high. Add couscous and cook them until slightly toasted, about 3-4 minutes.

  2. Add water. Season with salt. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer covered for 5-6 minutes, until couscous is tender.

  3. Drain the couscous and rinse with cold water. Drain well and transfer the couscous to a mixing bowl.

  4. Preheat the oven to 425°. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.

  5. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, curry powder, turmeric, salt, coriander, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Blend well.

    Curry powder will vary in flavor. Try out different kinds of curry powder or different quantities than listed.

  6. In another small bowl, toss the carrots with a bit of oil and 1/4 of the spices.

  7. Cut or break up the cauliflorwer into small pieces, about 1/2", and place in a large bowl. Toss the cauliflower with a bit of oil and the rest of the spices.

  8. Put the carrots on one side of the baking sheet, and the cauliflower on the other. Roast in the oven for about 8 minutes, check if the carrots are tender. If they are, transfer the carrots to the couscous bowl, leaving the cauliflower.

  9. Roast the cauliflower for an additional 4-6 minutes. Transfer the cauliflower to the couscous bowl.

  10. Toss everything together. Add the mayonnaise, cilantro, and lime juice. Taste and adjust the lime juice and salt.

  11. Transfer to an airtight container and chill in the fridge for at least an hour. Best served cold.