Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey that tantalizes your taste buds and nourishes your body? Dive into the vibrant flavors of North Africa with our Vegan Harissa Tofu with Pistachio Couscous! This dish not only brings a burst of color to your plate but also offers a delightful combination of spicy, nutty, and fresh elements that will leave you craving more. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just looking to explore plant-based options, this recipe is a must-try. With just 40 minutes of your time, you can whip up a meal that serves four and impresses everyone at the dinner table. Let's get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: North African
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 block firm tofu, pressed and cubed
- 2 tablespoons harissa paste
- 1 cup couscous
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Press the tofu block for 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture. Use a tofu press or wrap in clean kitchen towels with a heavy weight on top.
- Cut the pressed tofu into 1-inch cubes. Pat the cubes dry with paper towels to ensure crispy edges during cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, gently toss tofu cubes with harissa paste, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Let marinate for 10 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add marinated tofu cubes and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- In a separate saucepan, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Remove from heat and add couscous, covering the pan. Let sit for 5 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff couscous with a fork, then fold in chopped pistachios and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Plate the pistachio couscous and top with crispy harissa tofu cubes. Garnish with additional chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Perfectly Pressed Tofu: Make sure to press the tofu thoroughly to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture we all love. If you don't have a tofu press, simply wrap it in kitchen towels and place a heavy object on top.
- Marinate for Flavor: Allow the tofu to marinate in the harissa paste for at least 10 minutes. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives the tofu a beautiful, vibrant color.
- Achieving Crispiness: For the crispiest tofu, ensure that the cubes are dry before cooking. Pat them down with paper towels after cutting to remove any moisture.
- Couscous Tips: When preparing the couscous, be sure to cover the saucepan after adding the couscous to the boiling broth. This traps the steam and ensures perfect, fluffy grains.
- Pistachio Crunch: For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast the chopped pistachios in a dry pan for a few minutes before adding them to the couscous. This will enhance their nutty taste and add a delightful crunch.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t forget to garnish your dish with additional chopped parsley before serving! It not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
- Customize Your Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to adjust the amount of harissa paste to suit your taste. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for a zesty twist!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
