Moroccan Lamb Couscous with a French Dijon Sauce

Moroccan Lamb Couscous with a French Dijon Sauce is a fusion dish that combines the rich flavors of North Africa with the sophisticated tastes of France. This recipe offers a delightful blend of spices, tender meat, and a tangy mustard sauce that elevates the traditional couscous experience.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds of lamb shoulder, cut into chunks
  • 2 cups of couscous
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 carrots, sliced
  • 2 zucchinis, sliced
  • 4 cups of chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Dijon Sauce:
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1/4 cup white wine or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Preparation

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the lamb chunks and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside. In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Add the ground cumin and coriander, stirring to release their aroma.

Return the lamb to the pot, then pour in the chicken broth. Add carrots and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour or until the lamb is tender. During the last 15 minutes, add zucchini slices to the pot.

While the stew simmers, prepare the couscous. Place the couscous in a heatproof bowl, pour over 2 cups of boiling water or broth, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Making the Dijon Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine Dijon mustard, honey, white wine or chicken broth, and lemon juice. Warm over low heat, stirring constantly until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serving

To serve, spoon the fluffy couscous onto plates, top with the tender lamb and vegetable stew, and drizzle generously with the warm Dijon sauce. This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine or mint tea.