I have recently discovered a new product within my local supermarket, the Near East Couscous products. Not only are they delicious as-is, but I have found that you can use them like a base for some wonderful new recipes. Couscous is essentially tiny pasta and this particular brand is available in lots of varieties. I love it because it's ready in under 8 minutes.
I recently purchased some more boxes of the couscous also it got me thinking about what you are able call semi-homemade food. By i mean, when you start with something that was pre-made but you dress up making it your personal. I are also recognized to do this with the pre-cooked rotisserie chickens that are available at just about any grocery store.
But to the couscous-
- Mediterranean – I've cooked down raw spinach in olive oil and garlic along with shredded chicken, then added the couscous and cooked it per the directions with added red pepper flakes. Right before serving, add in diced roasted red peppers and crumbled feta and you've got a one-dish meal all set to go.
- Mexican – If you wish to spice some misconception, begin with the same shredded chicken (I use the rotisserie just to make it simpler), and also to the cooked couscous add salsa, shredded cheese, and cooked peppers and onions. You can also add green chilies for a more Southwestern flavor.
- Asian – Sometimes you might like to travel east instead of south. You can stir-fry any mixture of vegetables such as peas and carrots and baby corn, add some egg and cook until scrambled, add water and soy sauce, and let everything sit for about five minutes to let the flavors blend. You can certainly add chicken if you want.
