THE RECIPE JOURNAL · Main Course
Savory North African Couscous Featuring Tempeh
This flavorful dish brings together the hearty texture of tempeh with aromatic spices for a true taste of North African cuisine. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner.
FROM THE KITCHEN • Savory North African Couscous Featuring Tempeh
01 THE RECIPE
Let's make it.
Follow these steps for a delicious result. Tick off each step as you go.
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01
Step 1
In a bowl, whisk together water, soy sauce, honey, curry powder, garlic, lemon juice, and liquid smoke until smooth. Toss the tempeh in the marinade so it’s fully coated, and let it sit, turning it every now and then, for about 20 minutes.
02
Step 2
Meanwhile, bring the vegetable broth, olive oil, curry powder, and a pinch of salt to a boil in a saucepan with a lid. Stir in the couscous, cover the pan, then take it off the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes. After that, fluff the couscous gently with a fork.
03
Step 3
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tempeh along with any leftover marinade and cook until the bottom is nicely browned, about 5 minutes. Flip the tempeh and cook the other side until golden, another 5 minutes or so. Once done, take the tempeh out and set it aside.
04
Step 4
In the same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s fragrant and starting to brown, which should take about 4 minutes. Then stir in the chickpeas and a splash of water, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let everything cook together for 3 to 4 minutes over medium heat, then turn the heat down to low.
05
Step 5
Now, gently fold the couscous into the onion and chickpea mixture. Add the tempeh back in, sprinkle some fresh mint over the top, and cook everything together for a couple more minutes until it’s warmed through. Serve and enjoy!
Why you’ll love it
This dish combines bold North African spices with the hearty texture of tempeh, making it both flavorful and satisfying. It’s a great way to enjoy a plant-based meal that feels comforting and wholesome. Plus, the couscous cooks quickly, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
How to serve
Serve warm with a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables. A dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of tahini sauce adds creaminess and balances the spices nicely. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a bright finish.
Storage & leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep the couscous moist. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
