Best Couscous Brands

Top Choices for Flavor and Quality

Choosing the right couscous brand can significantly elevate a meal, providing both taste and texture that complement various dishes. From quick side dishes to bases for hearty, veggie-packed meals, understanding which couscous brand to select can make a notable difference in the kitchen.

This article explores various couscous brands, aiming to guide readers towards options that promise both quality and flavor. Each brand featured has been carefully considered for its ability to deliver delicious and fluffy couscous that will enhance any culinary creation.

1) Bob's Red Mill Couscous

Bob's Red Mill offers different types of couscous known for their quality and taste. The Golden Couscous is made from coarsely ground durum wheat, providing a slightly nutty flavor and hearty texture.

Their Golden Couscous is par-cooked and can be prepared in just 5 minutes. It contains 9 grams of protein per serving, making it a nutritious option.

Bob's Red Mill also features Pearl Couscous, often referred to as Israeli Couscous, which consists of small balls of toasted semolina flour. This type is distinct for its slightly chewy texture.

In terms of versatility, Bob's Red Mill Couscous can be used in various dishes. It serves well as a side dish, a base for stews, or even as a breakfast cereal.

The brand's commitment to quality ensures that their couscous is a reliable choice for many culinary applications. Whether you prefer the nutty Golden Couscous or the unique Pearl Couscous, Bob's Red Mill has you covered.

2) Near East Couscous

Near East Couscous stands out for its variety and convenience. This brand offers a wide range of flavors, including Roasted Garlic & Olive Oil and Basil & Herb. Their seasoned couscous options cater to different taste preferences and dietary needs, making them a versatile choice for many households.

A key feature of Near East Couscous is its ease of preparation. Microwaveable and stovetop directions are simple and quick, allowing users to prepare couscous in minutes. This convenience makes it an attractive option for busy individuals seeking a fast yet nutritious meal.

Near East utilizes high-quality ingredients to ensure a delicious product every time. Vegan-friendly and non-GMO options are available, adding to its appeal for health-conscious consumers. The light and fluffy texture of their couscous makes it an excellent base for many dishes.

The brand is well-regarded for its consistency and flavor. Products like the Whole Wheat Pearl Couscous are noted for their nutty taste and firm texture. Many people appreciate the reliability and taste Near East provides, making it a staple in their kitchens.

3) RiceSelect Original Pearl Couscous

RiceSelect Original Pearl Couscous offers versatility for various dishes. Made from high-quality durum wheat semolina, it has a delicate texture that blends well with a range of ingredients.

The cooking process is straightforward. Bring 1 1/2 cups of water to a boil, adding a teaspoon of butter or olive oil if desired. Once the water boils, stir in 1 cup of pearl couscous. Cover and reduce heat to low, simmering for 8-10 minutes and stirring occasionally.

RiceSelect emphasizes the quality of its ingredients, ensuring that each grain is crafted to maintain a consistent texture. This makes it a preferred choice for those who value texture in their dishes.

RiceSelect's Original Pearl Couscous yields approximately 2 cups once cooked. Suitable for salads, stews, and side dishes, it can enhance any meal with minimal effort.

This product can be a reliable addition to any kitchen, providing a versatile base for multiple recipes. It maintains a delicate balance between simplicity and taste, making it a staple for many households.

4) Trader Joe's Israeli Couscous

Trader Joe's Israeli Couscous, also known as "pearl couscous," stands out for its unique, shiny, and spherical shape. Unlike traditional couscous, this variety offers a slightly chewy texture, adding a delightful bite to dishes.

This couscous is versatile and can be used in an array of recipes. It pairs well with vegetables, herbs, and proteins, making it a staple for many.

Trader Joe's Israeli Couscous is available in an 8 oz box and is often chosen for its affordability. The packaging notes the product's rebranding to "pearl couscous," reflecting a more inclusive marketing approach.

Preparation is simple. Toasting the couscous beforehand enhances its nutty flavor. Cooking involves simmering it in water or broth until tender, making it an easy addition to many meals.

Consumers appreciate the quality and taste of Trader Joe's Israeli Couscous. It seamlessly fits into both casual and more elaborate recipes, providing a reliable option for those seeking a quick yet flavorful dish.

For those looking to explore different culinary styles, Trader Joe's Israeli Couscous is an excellent choice.

5) Osem Israeli Couscous

Osem Israeli Couscous is a highly-regarded option for couscous enthusiasts. Known for its unique, pearl-like texture, it provides a distinct mouthfeel that sets it apart from other couscous types.

The couscous cooks quickly, taking only 8-10 minutes. Its preparation is straightforward, requiring boiling and occasional stirring.

Many appreciate its versatility in pairing with various dishes. It complements proteins like beef and salmon well, offering a balanced addition to meals.

Osem's product comes in a resealable bag, making it convenient for storage. This packaging ensures freshness and ease of use.

Tasters have noted the couscous's individual pearls, which maintain their integrity during cooking. This quality contributes to a satisfying culinary experience.

6) Roland Foods Traditional Couscous

Roland Foods Traditional Couscous offers a reliable and convenient option for quick meals. This brand is known for its fine quality and consistency.

Produced from durum wheat semolina, Roland Foods Couscous has a light and fluffy texture. It absorbs flavors well, making it an ideal base for various dishes.

Preparation is simple. Users need to add lightly-salted boiling water to the couscous and let it sit for around 7-8 minutes. After this, fluff with a fork and mix in a small amount of butter or olive oil.

This couscous can also be enhanced with fresh lemon juice for an added burst of flavor. Roland Foods ensures that their product is easy to make, perfect for busy kitchens.

The packaging is also user-friendly, helping to keep the couscous fresh for longer periods. Roland Foods is a well-established brand, recognized for its global pantry and Mediterranean specialties.

7) Sadaf Premium Couscous

Sadaf Premium Couscous provides a traditional North African dish made from durum wheat semolina. Each grain is crafted to be plump and flavorful.

This couscous is known for its ability to absorb flavors efficiently. It pairs well with various recipes and cuisines. It’s versatile enough to be used in salads, stews, and as a side dish.

The preparation of Sadaf Couscous is straightforward. A simple process of boiling water or broth and adding the couscous yields excellent results. This makes it an easy and quick option for home cooks.

Sadaf also offers an organic variant. Free from harmful chemicals and non-GMO, this option caters to those with dietary restrictions. It maintains the same light and fluffy texture.

Sadaf Premium Couscous is valued for its high quality. Whether used in elaborate meals or simple dishes, it consistently delivers a satisfying culinary experience.

8) Casbah Natural Foods Couscous

Casbah Natural Foods offers a variety of couscous products, including options made from 100% durum wheat semolina. This makes their couscous a nutritious choice for those looking for alternatives to traditional pasta or rice.

Casbah couscous is praised for its quick cooking time, typically ready in just 5 minutes. This convenience makes it ideal for busy households and those seeking a fast meal prep solution.

The texture of Casbah couscous is light and fluffy. This quality makes it an excellent base for various dishes, such as stews, salads, or as a side dish.

In addition to their plain couscous, Casbah provides flavored options that come pre-seasoned with herbs and spices. These varieties add an extra layer of taste, making meal preparation even more effortless.

One notable point is Casbah’s history, as the brand has been around since 1977. This long-standing presence in the market speaks to their reliability and consistent quality.

Casbah also offers both conventional and organic couscous options. This caters to different dietary preferences and needs, ensuring that all consumers can find a suitable product.

9) Alwadi Lebanese Couscous

Alwadi Lebanese Couscous, also known as moghrabieh, offers a distinct texture and flavor, making it a popular choice in Middle Eastern cuisine. The pellets are larger than Israeli couscous, resembling small peas, and provide a satisfying bite when cooked.

Preparing Alwadi Lebanese Couscous requires a longer cooking process. The couscous is traditionally simmered or steamed for optimal results. This method helps achieve a perfect balance of tenderness and firmness.

Known for its versatility, Alwadi Lebanese Couscous pairs well with a variety of ingredients, such as chicken, lamb, or vegetables. The starchy pellets absorb flavors beautifully, enhancing the taste of the overall dish.

Alwadi Al Akhdar, the brand behind this couscous, has been a trusted name since 1979. Their products are well-regarded for maintaining high quality and authentic taste. This makes Alwadi Lebanese Couscous a reliable choice for those seeking genuine Middle Eastern flavors.

10) Badia Moroccan Couscous

Badia Moroccan Couscous offers a taste of North African cuisine with its versatile and quick-to-prepare qualities. The couscous is made from durum wheat, which gives it a light, fluffy texture when cooked correctly.

In just a few minutes, it transforms into a staple side dish or base for more elaborate meals.

The product's subtle flavor makes it a suitable canvas for various seasonings and ingredients. Chefs and home cooks alike appreciate its versatility.

Badia Moroccan Couscous also stands out for its consistent quality, ensuring reliable results each time. The small granules cook evenly and don't clump together, making it a pleasure to work with in the kitchen.

This couscous is a practical addition to any pantry.

Nutritional Benefits of Couscous

Couscous is a nutritious grain that offers significant vitamins, minerals, and low-calorie benefits. These attributes make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.

Vitamins and Minerals

Couscous contains selenium, an essential mineral known for its antioxidant properties. One cup of cooked couscous provides over 60% of the daily recommended intake of selenium. This helps in protecting cells from damage, supporting immune function, and maintaining thyroid health.

Iron is present too, which is critical for oxygen transport in the blood. Additionally, couscous offers small amounts of potassium, magnesium, and B vitamins such as thiamine and niacin. These nutrients contribute to overall energy metabolism and support nervous system functions.

Low-Calorie Benefits

Couscous is low in calories, with one cup of cooked couscous having approximately 176 calories. This makes it an excellent option for those seeking to manage their weight without sacrificing satiety.

The grain is composed primarily of carbohydrates, making up 85% of its calorie content. The remaining calories are from protein and minimal fat. Its low-calorie profile combined with its ability to provide sustained energy makes couscous a suitable component of a balanced meal.

Couscous Preparation Tips

Master the basics of cooking couscous and discover ways to enhance its flavor with a few simple techniques.

Cooking Techniques

Measuring: For standard couscous, a 1:1 water-to-couscous ratio is ideal. Since Israeli couscous is larger, use a 1.5:1 water-to-couscous ratio for optimal texture.

Boiling Water: Bring water or broth to a boil. A small pinch of salt can be added for depth of flavor.

Steaming: Pour the boiled liquid over the couscous and immediately cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap. Let it sit undisturbed for about 10 minutes.

Fluffing: Use a fork to gently fluff the couscous, separating any clumps. This step ensures a light, airy texture.

Toasting (optional): Toasting couscous in a bit of olive oil before adding boiling water adds a nutty flavor. Heat olive oil in a pan, add the couscous, and stir until golden brown.

Flavor Enhancements

Oils and Fats: Incorporate high-quality extra virgin olive oil or butter after cooking. Drizzle and mix with the fluffed couscous for added richness.

Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like mint, parsley, or coriander infuse vibrant flavors. Spices such as cumin, turmeric, or cinnamon can also enhance the dish.

Citrus and Zest: A squeeze of lemon or lime juice lightens the couscous, while zest from these fruits adds a burst of flavor.

Extras: Include ingredients such as chopped nuts (almonds, pine nuts), dried fruits (raisins, apricots), or vegetables (roasted peppers, cherry tomatoes). These additions create a more complex and satisfying dish.

Stocks: Using chicken, vegetable, or beef stock instead of water for boiling enhances the base flavor.