How to cook couscous perfectly every time

Couscous in a white bowl with some parsley and pomegranate seeds.

How to cook couscous perfectly every time

If you're frustrated with couscous turning out too dry, too wet, soggy, clumpy, undercooked or overcooked, this basic recipe is for you! Plus, this water-to-couscous ratio is easy to remember, also making it simple to scale the portion size up or down as needed. You will never have to look at a recipe again.

Print Recipe Save recipe

5 from 1 vote

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Servings: servings

Calories: 203

Author: Maretha Corbett

Prep Time: 12

Total Time: 12

Ingredients

▢ 1 cup couscous
▢ 1 cup boiled water
▢ 1 tablespoon oil
▢ salt to taste

Instructions

Add the couscous to a bowl and pour over the oil.
1 cup couscous, 1 tablespoon oil
Using a fork, work the oil through the couscous to ensure all the grains are evenly coated.
Pour the freshly boiled water over the couscous, ensuring all the grains are covered. Stir briefly if necessary.
1 cup boiled water
Let the couscous sit for about 10 minutes. Leaving it longer may make it soggy.
When the time is up, use a fork to gently fluff the couscous. Season with salt to taste before serving.
salt to taste

Notes

Don’t let the couscous sit too long before fluffing it up. For a cup of couscous to a cup of water, 10 minutes is ideal. Any longer, and it may become too soft and start clumping together.
Stick to the recommended ratio of 1:1 couscous to water. Don't be tempted to add more water if it 'doesn't look enough'.
Use a fork to fluff the couscous, not a spoon. This is key to separating the grains and achieving that sought-after light, fluffy texture.
Don’t forget to season with salt before serving! Just like rice, unsalted couscous can be a bit bland. See further down for more flavour boosters.

Nutritional data disclaimer

Please keep in mind that the nutritional information provided below is calculated by a third party and we cannot guarantee the accuracy. We try our best to give you the most accurate information, but we do not take responsibility for errors that may be present. Also, the nutritional value of the recipe may change depending on the exact brands and products used. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalised advice on your dietary needs.

Nutrition