Chakchouka / Couscous Mauritanien aux Sept Légumes – Authentic Mauritania Recipe

Ingredients for Chakchouka / Couscous Mauritanien aux Sept Légumes (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) fine steamed semolina couscous, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups sweet pumpkin, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup turnips
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with ras el hanout
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Mauritania seasoning (ginger, garlic, olive oil, caramelized onion)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a wide, heavy-bottomed pot or deep skillet over medium heat; sauté the onion, garlic, and ras el hanout until golden.
2. Add ginger, garlic, olive oil, caramelized onion along with fine steamed semolina couscous and sweet pumpkin, searing for 4–5 minutes to build savory depth.
3. Stir in the rinsed grains/rice so every grain is coated in the spiced oil, then pour in warm stock.
4. Bring to a simmer, cover tightly with a lid, and cook on low heat for 18–20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and tender.
5. Rest off the heat for 5 minutes, fluff gently with a fork, and garnish with turnips.