Get ready to transform your dinner routine with the most luxurious and soul-warming soup you've ever tasted! This Creamy Pearl Couscous Soup is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that combines the delicate texture of pearl couscous with a velvety, rich broth that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Perfect for those chilly evenings or when you need a quick, nutritious meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, this vegetarian delight is about to become your new go-to comfort food.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup pearl couscous
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
- 1 cup peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to let it burn. The garlic should become aromatic but not browned.
- Add the pearl couscous to the pot, stirring to coat the couscous in the oil and onion mixture. Toast the couscous for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes slightly golden.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the couscous is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- After the couscous is cooked, stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and the peas. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, until the peas are heated through and the soup is creamy.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
- Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs of your choice, such as parsley or basil, for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve the creamy pearl couscous soup hot and enjoy your delicious, vegetarian dish!
Tips
- Toast the Couscous: Don't skip the toasting step! This crucial technique brings out a nutty, deeper flavor and helps prevent the couscous from becoming mushy.
- Cream Options: While heavy cream works beautifully, coconut cream can be an excellent dairy-free alternative that adds a subtle tropical twist.
- Herb Selection: Fresh herbs make a massive difference. Try mixing parsley, basil, or even some fresh dill for a burst of freshness.
- Liquid Ratio: Keep an eye on the broth absorption. If the soup becomes too thick, you can always add a little more vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Customize Your Soup: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced carrots or spinach to boost nutrition and add more texture.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
