Talha's Favourite Couscous (Ta'am Bil Jilbana & Foul)

Um Safia's Note:

This is a family recipe for steamed couscous with peas & broad (fava) beans. We eat it by itself or with a little buttermilk poured over it. It is easy to make - don't be put off by steaming, you will get a lighter fluffier couscous. But you can also just follow the directions on the pack if you don't want it the traditional way.....

• Total Time: 1 hrs
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 45 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 6

• 4 cups medium couscous
• 3/4 cup frozen peas
• 3/4 cup frozen broad bean
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon margarine or 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon ghee or 1 tablespoon clarified butter
• water

Directions:

1. Pour the couscous into a large bowl, add the salt & oil. Sprinkle 1/2 cup water over & mix with hands. When water is absorbed, transfer to the couscousier or steamer.
2. Steam for 15 minutes. Tip couscous into a large bowl & 'open' by sprinkling a little cold water over the couscous & rubbing between your hands - use no more than 1/4 cup.
3. Return to the couscousier & steam again for 15 minutes. Repeat the previous step.
4. Whilst the couscous is steaming for the final time, boil the peas & broad beans in a pan of salted water until tender. Finely chop the garlic & add to the pan. Cook for a further minute then drain carefully.
5. Do this a third time then pour the couscous into a very large bowl. Open again using a little water, then rib in the margarine & the ghee. Add the peas, broad beans & garlic to the couscous & mix well. Taste & add more salt if desired.