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Ainsley's Spicy Casablanca Couscous

We are big couscous fans in my house and this recipe that my husband found from Ainsley Harriot is really tasty. Great as a snack on it's own or as an accompaniment to roasted veggies or grilled meats and fish.

5.0 · 4 reviewsRecipe card by Noo8820Editorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 13, 2026
AfricanEuropeanVeganSpicySavoryWeeknight
Ainsley's Spicy Casablanca Couscous

Total time

15 min

Servings

1

Calories

1633.4

Category

Moroccan

Transport your taste buds to Morocco with Ainsley's Spicy Casablanca Couscous. This vibrant, plant-based dish is the ultimate weeknight savior—coming together in under 15 minutes from scratch. Perfectly fluffy, infused with aromatic spices, and packed with savory flavor, this beginner-friendly recipe proves that high-quality, exotic meals don't have to be expensive or time-consuming.

Ingredients

Makes 1 serving

  • 2 olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 1 ground cumin
  • 1 ground coriander
  • 1 paprika
  • 350 saffron strand
  • 6 spring onions
  • 225 couscous
  • 1 lemon
  • 2 pine nuts

Method

  1. Heat 1 tbsp of the oil in large pan. add the cumin,garlic,coriander and paprika and fry over a gentle heat for 1 min,stirring.

  2. Add the stock and saffron and bring to the boil. Add the spring onion and then pour in the couscous in a steady stream and give it a quick stir.

  3. Cover the pan with a tight fitting lid, remove from the heat and set aside for 5 minutes, to allow the grains to swell and absorb the stock.

  4. If you are serving this warm, stir in the rest of the oil and the remaining ingredients now. Otherwise allow the couscous to cool and chill in the fridge for 1 hour before adding the other ingredients for a yummy cold couscous salad.

Cook's notes

  • Use high-quality vegetable broth instead of water to bloom the couscous for a deeper, savory flavor profile.
  • Fluff the couscous with a fork rather than a spoon to keep the grains light and separate rather than clumpy.
  • Toast your dry couscous in a pan with a drop of olive oil for one minute before adding the liquid to add a nutty depth to the dish.

Easy swaps

  • Add chickpeas or roasted cauliflower to transform this side dish into a protein-packed main course.
  • If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of harissa or chili flakes and replace them with smoked paprika.
  • For added texture, fold in toasted slivered almonds, pomegranate seeds, or fresh chopped parsley just before serving.

Frequently asked

Is this spicy couscous recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, Ainsley's Spicy Casablanca Couscous is 100% vegan and uses plant-based ingredients.

How long does it take to cook couscous?

Couscous is one of the fastest grains to prepare. It typically takes about 5 minutes to hydrate in boiling liquid, making the total prep and cook time for this recipe under 15 minutes.

What can I serve with this Moroccan-style couscous?

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, vegan kebabs, or a crisp cucumber and tomato salad.

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