Couscous descends from north Africa and is a real staple throughout Africa s well as being popular in many  other countries today. It’s a healthier alternative to rice and only requires four ingredients: couscous, vegetable/chicken stock, salt and pepper. I add lemon to mine but that’s optional.

Preparation time: 2 minutes. Cooking time: 10 minutes.

Ingredients (serves 2-3 people)

• 1 cup of fine couscous
• 1 cup of boiling water
• 1 stock cube (vegetable or chicken)
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation and Cooking

1. Over medium heat, dissolve a stock cube in water and bring to the boil.
2. Add the couscous and lemon juice to the water and mix, then cover and turn the heat off.
3. Let the couscous stand for 10 minutes and then fluff with a fork to separate the grains.
4. Add salt and pepper to taste.