Couscous is a tiny, round pasta that originates from North Africa. It’s a versatile food that can be served as a side dish, added to salads, or used as the base of a main dish. For anyone looking to explore the world of couscous, finding the best couscous brand is an essential step in making sure that every meal turns out perfectly. Whether you are a seasoned cook or someone who is just starting to discover the magic of couscous, this guide will help you make the right choice when selecting a brand.

In this article, we’ll dive into the different types of couscous, what makes a good couscous, and some of the most popular brands out there. We’ll also provide some helpful tips for cooking couscous to perfection, so you can enjoy delicious, fluffy couscous with every meal. So, let’s get started!

What Is Couscous and Why Is It So Popular?

Before we get into the details of the best couscous brands, it’s essential to understand what couscous is and why it’s so popular in many kitchens around the world. Couscous is made from semolina wheat, which is ground into tiny granules. It has a unique texture, somewhat similar to rice, but it cooks much faster and has a light, fluffy consistency when prepared properly.

Couscous has become a go-to food for many people because it’s not only quick and easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a side dish to complement meats, vegetables, or seafood. It can also be used as a base for salads or as a filling for stuffed vegetables. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, which makes it an excellent choice for busy individuals or families.

Types of Couscous: Which One Should You Choose?

Couscous comes in different varieties, and each has its own unique texture and flavor. Knowing the types will help you pick the best couscous brand for your needs. Here are the main types of couscous you’ll come across:

1. Moroccan Couscous: Moroccan couscous is the smallest and most common type available in supermarkets. It cooks quickly, usually in about 5 minutes. It’s incredibly light and fluffy, making it perfect for those who want a fast and easy side dish. If you’re looking for a couscous that’s ready in a flash, Moroccan couscous is your best bet.
2. Israeli Couscous (Pearl Couscous): Israeli couscous, also known as pearl couscous, is slightly larger than Moroccan couscous. It has a chewy texture and a more substantial bite. It’s often used in salads or as a base for stews and soups. This type of couscous takes a little longer to cook, but it’s worth the extra time for its unique texture.
3. Lebanese Couscous: Lebanese couscous is the largest variety, and it is typically used in more hearty dishes. It has a much firmer texture and a nuttier flavor compared to the other varieties. It also takes a little longer to cook, but the results are delicious when paired with rich and flavorful ingredients.

Each type of couscous has its own strengths, so your choice will depend on the dish you are preparing and the texture you desire. Now that we know about the types of couscous, let’s take a look at some of the best couscous brands available.

Top 5 Best Couscous Brands You Should Try

When it comes to choosing the best couscous brand, there are a few key factors to keep in mind, such as flavor, texture, and cooking time. You’ll also want a brand that’s made from high-quality ingredients. Here are five of the best couscous brands to consider:

1. Bob’s Red Mill Whole Wheat Couscous Bob’s Red Mill is known for producing high-quality, wholesome products, and their whole wheat couscous is no exception. This couscous is made with whole wheat, giving it a slightly nutty flavor and a hearty texture. It’s perfect for anyone looking to add more fiber to their diet. It’s also easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknight meals.
2. Barilla Couscous Barilla is a well-known brand in the pasta world, and their couscous doesn’t disappoint. Their couscous is quick to prepare and has a light, fluffy texture that’s ideal for many dishes. Barilla couscous is made with semolina flour and is a great option for those who want a reliable and easy-to-make couscous.
3. Cucina & Amore Couscous Cucina & Amore offers couscous made with quality ingredients and provides a delicious, fluffy texture. This brand has a variety of couscous options, including Moroccan couscous and pearl couscous, giving you plenty of choices for your cooking needs. Their couscous is made from durum wheat, ensuring that you get a satisfying bite every time.
4. La Bomba Couscous For those who prefer a larger couscous with a chewy texture, La Bomba couscous is an excellent choice. This Israeli-style couscous cooks up perfectly and can be used in a variety of dishes. It’s especially great for salads or as a base for Mediterranean-inspired meals.
5. Al Wadi Couscous If you’re looking for an authentic and flavorful couscous, Al Wadi is a top contender. This brand specializes in Middle Eastern foods and offers couscous that’s perfect for traditional recipes. Whether you’re making couscous with vegetables, chicken, or lamb, Al Wadi couscous will elevate your dish with its high-quality taste and texture.

How to Cook Couscous Like a Pro

Cooking couscous is quick and simple, but the key to perfect couscous lies in the preparation. Whether you’re using Moroccan, Israeli, or Lebanese couscous, here’s how to cook it so that it’s light, fluffy, and flavorful:

1. For Moroccan Couscous:
   • Bring 1 1/4 cups of water (or broth for added flavor) to a boil in a pot.
   • Add 1 cup of couscous and stir it in.
   • Cover the pot, remove it from the heat, and let it steam for about 5 minutes.
   • Fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains, and it’s ready to serve.
2. For Israeli Couscous:
   • In a medium pot, bring 1 3/4 cups of water or broth to a boil.
   • Add 1 cup of couscous and stir it in.
   • Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the couscous is tender.
   • Drain any excess water, then fluff with a fork.
3. For Lebanese Couscous:
   • Bring 2 cups of water or broth to a boil.
   • Add 1 cup of couscous, stir, and cover the pot.
   • Lower the heat and simmer for about 12-15 minutes.
   • Let it sit for a few minutes before fluffing with a fork.

No matter what type of couscous you use, be sure not to overcook it! Overcooked couscous can become mushy, so it’s important to follow the right cooking times and fluff it gently after steaming or simmering.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Couscous

Couscous is already a great addition to many dishes, but with a few creative ideas, you can take your couscous meals to the next level. Here are some tips:

1. Use Broth Instead of Water: For added flavor, try cooking couscous in chicken, vegetable, or beef broth instead of just water. This simple change can add depth and richness to your dish.
2. Add Herbs and Spices: Couscous pairs well with a variety of herbs and spices. Fresh cilantro, parsley, cumin, turmeric, and cinnamon can all be added to enhance the flavor profile.
3. Mix with Vegetables: Couscous is a great base for vegetable dishes. Try mixing it with roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for a healthy and satisfying meal.
4. Make Couscous Salad: Couscous can be used in cold salads as well. Toss couscous with chopped vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing Mediterranean-inspired salad.
5. Pair with Protein: Couscous goes wonderfully with grilled chicken, lamb, or seafood. The versatility of couscous makes it a perfect pairing for nearly any protein.

Conclusion: Choose the Best Couscous Brand for Your Next Meal

Choosing the best couscous brand really comes down to personal preference and the dish you are preparing. Whether you opt for Moroccan, Israeli, or Lebanese couscous, make sure to pick a high-quality brand like Bob’s Red Mill, Barilla, or La Bomba. With a bit of practice, you’ll be making perfect couscous every time. So, get ready to elevate your meals and explore the world of couscous in all its delicious forms!