Couscous is one of the most iconic dishes of North Africa, and in Algeria, it holds a special place in every home. Served during family gatherings, Fridays, celebrations, and even simple daily meals, Algerian couscous is more than a dish — it’s a tradition.
This guide will show you how to prepare authentic Algerian couscous with vegetables, spices, and your choice of meat, keeping everything simple, healthy, and delicious.
⭐ Why Algerian Couscous Is So Loved
Algerian couscous is known for:
- Light, fluffy grains
- Rich broth infused with spices
- Fresh vegetables full of flavor
- A healthy balance of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber
This makes it perfect for healthy eating, family meals, or meal prep.
🥗 Ingredients You Need
This recipe uses common ingredients found in most Algerian kitchens.
For the Couscous Grains
- 2 cups medium couscous
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups warm water
For the Broth (Marqa)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 zucchinis
- 2 potatoes, peeled
- 1 cup chickpeas (soaked or canned)
- 2 tomatoes, grated
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Salt to taste
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1.5 liters water
For the Protein (choose one)
- Chicken pieces
- Lamb pieces
- Beef
- Or vegetarian / vegan (no meat)
🔥 Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepare the Couscous
Traditionally, couscous is steamed — this makes it fluffy and light.
- Place couscous in a large bowl.
- Add olive oil and mix with your hands.
- Add warm water and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Steam it in a couscoussier for 15–20 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork, add a little salt, and steam again for another 10 minutes.
This creates perfect fluffy grains, not sticky or wet.
2. Prepare the Broth (Marqa)
- In a large pot, heat olive oil.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until soft.
- Add meat (if using) and brown lightly.
- Add paprika, turmeric, pepper, and salt.
- Add grated tomatoes and tomato paste.
- Stir and cook for 3 minutes.
- Add water and bring to a boil.
After 20 minutes:
→ Add carrots and chickpeas.
After 10 more minutes:
→ Add potatoes and zucchinis.
Let everything simmer until the vegetables become tender and the broth becomes rich and flavorful.
🍽️ Final Assembly
- Place couscous in a large serving dish.
- Create a small well in the center.
- Add vegetables and meat on top.
- Pour some broth over the couscous.
- Serve extra broth on the side.
This is the traditional Algerian way, perfect for family-style meals.
❤️ Tips for the Best Couscous
- Do not skip steaming—it makes a huge difference.
- Use fresh vegetables for richer flavor.
- Add cinnamon for a traditional Algerian aroma.
- For a healthier version, use less oil and more vegetables.
- For spicy couscous, add harissa on the side.
🌱 Healthy Benefits
Algerian couscous is naturally healthy:
- Rich in fiber from vegetables
- High in protein when using meat or chickpeas
- Low in fat
- Light and easy to digest
- Perfect for weight management and balanced meals
🎯 Conclusion
Traditional Algerian couscous is more than a recipe—it’s a symbol of hospitality, culture, and family. Whether you make it with chicken, lamb, or simply vegetables, this dish brings warmth and flavor to any table.
Try it once, and it will become one of your favorite healthy recipes.
FitKitchen Editorial TeamFitKitchen Editorial Team consists of nutrition enthusiasts, fitness researchers, and wellness writers committed to delivering high-quality, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand health content. All articles are created for educational purposes and follow strict content accuracy and transparency guidelines.