Dajaj Bil Couscous

A delicious Syrian dish, be sure not to use Moroccan-style couscous, use the Lebanese or Israeli variety (which is larger). Serve with mishmishiyah (I will post the recipe soon).

• Ready In: 2 hrs 20 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 2  tablespoons olive oil
• 1  large onion
• 4  garlic cloves, crushed
• 3 1⁄2 lbs chicken
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ginger
• 2  teaspoons cinnamon
• 1  teaspoon cardamom
• 1⁄2 teaspoon cumin
• 1⁄2 teaspoon aleppo pepper (optional) or 1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
•  salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 1⁄2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2  cups couscous, Lebanese-style
• 2  tablespoons butter

Directions

1. In a large pan (large enough to hold the chicken), fry the onion and garlic in the olive oil until onion becomes soft and translucent.
2. Put in the chicken and pour 4-1/2 cups of water (it won't be sufficient to cover). Add spices.
3. Cover and simmer for 1 - 1-1/2 hours so chicken is so tender it's falling off the bone, turning once halfway through.
4. Take out the chicken and remove skin and bones. Cut into small pieces.
5. Bring the sauce to a boil and add lemon juice.
6. Throw in the couscous. Cook for approximately 8 minutes (until tender). (you can add 1 cup of boiling water if necessary during this time)
7. Stir in the butter and place the chicken pieces back in the pan.
8. Heat through before serving.