Trapani Almond Couscous Jewels Delight
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Ingredients
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150 grams Fine durum wheat couscous
(For gluten-free option, use Israeli pearl couscous or substitute with quinoa pearls)
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100 grams Shelled almonds
(Coarsely chopped)
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4 tbsp Honey
(Use floral variety for best aroma)
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1 tbsp Lemon zest
(Freshly grated from organic lemon)
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1 tsp orange blossom water
(Adds floral aroma characteristic of Sicilian desserts)
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30 grams Unsalted butter
(Can be substituted with coconut oil for dairy-free)
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1 tsp Ground cinnamon
(Warm spice accent)
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2 tbsp Powdered sugar
(For garnish)
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100 grams Strawberries
(Fresh, quartered for serving)
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0.25 tsp Sea salt
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180 ml Water
(For gluten-free option, use Israeli pearl couscous or substitute with quinoa pearls)
(Coarsely chopped)
(Use floral variety for best aroma)
(Freshly grated from organic lemon)
(Adds floral aroma characteristic of Sicilian desserts)
(Can be substituted with coconut oil for dairy-free)
(Warm spice accent)
(For garnish)
(Fresh, quartered for serving)
Nutrition
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 4 small portions (approx. 120g each)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
- Calcium: 80 mg
- Iron: 1.5 mg
Instructions
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1 - Toast Almonds:
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add chopped almonds and toast, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
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2 - Prepare Couscous:
Bring water with sea salt and butter to a boil in a saucepan. Remove from heat and stir in couscous. Cover tightly and let steam for 5 minutes.
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3 - Fluff and Mix:
Uncover couscous and fluff grains gently with fork. Stir in honey, lemon zest, ground cinnamon, toasted almonds, and optional orange blossom water for floral notes.
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4 - Shape Jewels:
Using clean wet hands, form the couscous mixture into small oval or rounded shapes resembling jewels. Arrange on serving plates.
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5 - Garnish and Serve:
Dust jewels lightly with powdered sugar if desired, and garnish with fresh strawberry quarters to add color and freshness. Serve at room temperature.
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add chopped almonds and toast, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
Bring water with sea salt and butter to a boil in a saucepan. Remove from heat and stir in couscous. Cover tightly and let steam for 5 minutes.
Uncover couscous and fluff grains gently with fork. Stir in honey, lemon zest, ground cinnamon, toasted almonds, and optional orange blossom water for floral notes.
Using clean wet hands, form the couscous mixture into small oval or rounded shapes resembling jewels. Arrange on serving plates.
Dust jewels lightly with powdered sugar if desired, and garnish with fresh strawberry quarters to add color and freshness. Serve at room temperature.
More About: Trapani Almond Couscous Jewels Delight
Summary
Trapani Almond Couscous Jewels are a beautifully crafted Sicilian-inspired dessert melding the nutty crunch of toasted almonds with the delicate texture of couscous. Sweetened naturally with honey and lifted by citrus zest and optional florals such as orange blossom water, this dish reflects the culinary heritage and aromatic traditions of Mediterranean Sicily, specifically the Trapani region.
Preparation and Tips
Use fine durum wheat couscous for a light grain texture; however, for gluten-free adaptations, Israeli pearled couscous or quinoa pearls work well, preserving the jewel-like shape. Toasting almonds must be done gently to retain optimal crunch and flavor. The addition of lemon zest and ground cinnamon animates the dish with warm and fresh notes. Orange blossom water enhancement is optional but recommended for authentic floral perfume.
Molding the couscous into jewel shapes is a unique step, which adds visual appeal suitable for dinner parties or celebratory occasions. Serve with fresh strawberries or your preferred berries to complement the nutty and honeyed sweetness.
Cultural Significance
The Trapani area of Sicily is well known for its almond cultivation and incorporation of nuts in sweet dishes dating back centuries, tying this recipe to traditional Mediterranean dessert preparations. Couscous, typically a savory base, is transformed here into a sweet morsel, illustrating the interplay of Arabic and Sicilian culinary traditions.
Unique Aspects
This recipe offers an exceptionally elegant presentation akin to edible jewels, highlighting delicate balance between texture (crisp almonds, soft couscous), taste (honeyed sweetness with citrus and spice), and aroma (orange blossom, cinnamon). It’s ideal for vegetarians and can be adapted for gluten-free diets.
Personal Thoughts
Trapani Almond Couscous Jewels convey a warm, rustic sense of home while delivering a sophisticated flavor profile. Its creative jewel shaping intrigues guests and makes it special beyond ordinary desserts. This recipe invites you to explore Sicilian culture and bring family or friends together around a dish that tells a story and pleases the palate.
