Creamy Mushroom Couscous: A Rich and Satisfying Dish
Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I’m excited to share a recipe for Creamy Mushroom Couscous that combines the nutty flavor of pearl couscous with the richness of Parmesan and the earthiness of cremini mushrooms. This dish is perfect for those looking for a comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Let’s dive in!
The Inspiration Behind Creamy Mushroom Couscous
Couscous, often thought of as a grain, is actually a type of pasta that cooks quickly and can absorb various flavors beautifully. In this recipe, the creamy sauce complements the tender mushrooms and nutty couscous, making it a comforting dish that can be enjoyed any time of the year.
Inspiration: Transforming Rice Risotto into Pasta Risotto
The inspiration for this Creamy Mushroom Couscous recipe stems from the traditional Italian risotto, which is typically made with arborio rice. Risotto is beloved for its creamy texture and rich flavors, achieved through a slow cooking process that allows the rice to absorb broth gradually. However, I wanted to explore how to bring that same comforting essence to a pasta dish, using couscous as a delightful alternative.
Why Couscous?
Couscous, particularly pearl couscous, has a unique texture that holds up well in creamy sauces, making it an ideal base for a risotto-style dish. Its round shape and chewy consistency mimic the hearty feel of rice while providing a different, yet equally satisfying, experience. Plus, couscous cooks quickly, allowing for a faster preparation time without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients and Their Meanings
To make Creamy Mushroom Couscous, you will need:
- 2 cups pearl couscous: This larger variety of couscous has a lovely chewy texture and serves as a fantastic base for creamy dishes.
- 2 cups Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, savory flavor and creaminess to the dish. It also enhances the overall umami profile.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: Provides a luxurious, creamy texture that binds all the flavors together. It makes the dish decadent and satisfying.
- 2 cups cremini mushrooms, sliced: These mushrooms bring an earthy flavor and a meaty texture, making them a great addition to the dish.
- 1/2 onion, chopped: Onions provide sweetness and depth to the flavor profile, forming a base for the dish.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients and is essential for seasoning.
- 1 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor.
- 2 tsp butter: Helps sauté the onions and mushrooms, adding richness to the dish.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic adds a robust, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- 1 1/2 cups pasta water: The starchy water from cooking pasta is perfect for adjusting the sauce’s consistency while adding flavor.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comforting Flavor: The creamy texture and earthy mushrooms create a rich, satisfying dish.
- Versatile: Easily customizable based on your preferences or dietary needs.
- Impressive Presentation: Looks and tastes gourmet, perfect for entertaining.
Instructions
- Cook the Couscous: In a medium saucepan, bring 8 cups of salted water to a boil. Add the pearl couscous, cover, and cook for about 4-6 minutes, or until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water. Rinse couscous with cold water to stop the cooking.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced cremini mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until they are browned and have released their moisture. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and creates a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
- Combine: Add the cooked couscous to the skillet and gently mix until the couscous is well-coated with the creamy mushroom sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Simmer till slightly thickened.
- Serve: Plate the creamy mushroom couscous and garnish with additional Parmesan or freshly chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy warm!
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 6-8)
Amount per serving
- Calories: 825
- Total Fat: 44g (56% DV)
- Saturated Fat: 27.3g (136% DV)
- Cholesterol: 132mg (44% DV)
- Sodium: 1010mg (439% DV)
- Total Carbohydrates: 88.1g (32% DV)
- Dietary Fiber: 12.4g (44% DV)
- Total Sugars: 3.1g
- Protein: 29.2g
- Vitamin D: 20mcg (98% DV)
- Calcium: 677mg (52% DV)
- Iron: 11mg (61% DV)
- Potassium: 1134mg (24% DV)
The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet based on a 2,000-calorie daily intake used for general nutrition advice.
Creamy Mushroom Couscous
Lily’s Cooking & HomeIngredients
- 2 tsp Butter none salted
- ½ Onion medium size.
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 2 cups Cremini Mushrooms
- 2 cups Pearl Couscous I like to get the colorful one
- 2 cups Parmesan Cheese
- 1 ½ cups Pasta Water reserved from cooking couscous.
- 1 ½ cups Heavy Cream
- Salt to taste
- Black Pepper to taste
- Fresh Parsley for garnish.
Instructions
- Cook the Couscous: In a medium Saucepan, bring 8 cups of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups Pearl Couscous , Cover and cook till al dente. for about 4-6 minutes. Drain couscous reserving some pasta water. Rinse couscous with cold water to stop the cooking.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the 2 tsp Butter over medium heat. Add the chopped ½ Onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced 3 cloves Garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced 2 cups Cremini Mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until they are browned and have released their moisture. Season with Salt and Black Pepper
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the 1 ½ cups Heavy Cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the 2 cups Parmesan Cheese, stirring until it melts and creates a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add 1 ½ cups Pasta Water
- Combine: Add the cooked couscous to the skillet and gently mix until the couscous is well-coated with the creamy mushroom sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Simmer till Slightly thickened.
- Serve: Plate the creamy mushroom couscous and garnish with additional Parmesan or freshly chopped Fresh Parsley if desired. Enjoy warm!
Tips for Success
- Quality Ingredients: Using fresh mushrooms and good-quality Parmesan will elevate the flavor of your dish.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin it out.
- Add Protein: Consider adding grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for extra protein.
Where to Purchase Pearl Couscous
Finding pearl couscous is easier than you might think! Here are some common places to look:
- Grocery Stores: Many mainstream grocery stores carry pearl couscous in their pasta or grain sections. Look for brands like Bob’s Red Mill, Near East, or store-brand options.
- Health Food Stores: Stores like Whole Foods or local health food markets often stock pearl couscous, along with a variety of specialty grains and pastas.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Thrive Market, or specialty food retailers offer pearl couscous for convenient delivery. This can be a great option if you want to buy in bulk or try different brands.
- Middle Eastern or Mediterranean Markets: Since couscous is a staple in many Mediterranean and North African cuisines, you’ll likely find a variety of couscous types, including pearl couscous, in these markets.
- International Sections: Check the international aisle of your local supermarket, where you may find pearl couscous alongside other Mediterranean products.
When purchasing pearl couscous, consider buying a package that is non-GMO or organic if that’s important to you. Enjoy your culinary adventures with this versatile ingredient!
Pairing Suggestions
Creamy Mushroom Couscous pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a grilled steak. A glass of dry white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the richness of the dish beautifully.
And there you have it—Creamy Mushroom Couscous, a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also rich in flavor and texture. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting goodness it offers. Share your thoughts in the comments below—did you make any variations? I’d love to hear about your experience!
Happy cooking, enjoy your meal!
2 Responses
I love all of Lily’s recipes I’ve tried so far! But I just had to leave a review for this mushroom couscous because I made it today and it was SO incredibly delicious!! Like better than any restaurant risotto I’ve ever had my husband was so impressed with this dish and the entire family loved it I will be making it on repeat not only was it super tasty but the recipe was very simple to make and easy to follow Lily’s instructions. You guys have to try this recipe I promise you will love it!
Thank you Alla for such a kind comment and so happy to hear you loved the recipe.
I appreciate your feedback!