Moroccan Spiced Couscous with Fruits

Ingredients

• couscous
• vegetable stock
• saffron thread
• dried apricots
• dates
• raisins
• chili powder
• lemon oil
• lemon, juice of
• chickpeas
• fresh mint leaves
• fresh coriander leaves
• sliced almonds
• salt and pepper

Preparation

1. 1preheat oven to 400f / 200c / 400f put the couscous in an ovenproof dish
2. 2mix the stock , saffron , apricots , dates and raisins in a saucepan and bring to the boil
3. 3pour the hot stock and fruit over the couscous
4. 4add just enough boiling water to cover the grains , but do not flood them
5. 5set aside for 15 minutes
6. 6fluff up the couscous with a fork and season it with salt , pepper and chili powder to taste
7. 7drizzle the lemon or olive oil and lemon juice over and add the chickpeas
8. 8mix the ingredients well , then cover the dish
9. 9bake the couscous for 15 minutes
10. 10fluff up the grains , stir in the mint and coriander and return the couscous to the oven for a further 5 minutes
11. 11meanwhile , dry fry the almonds in a heavy based frying pan over a moderate heat , turning or stirring frequently for 5 minutes until they are golden
12. 12scatter almonds over the couscous and serve immediately