Maftoul - Palestinian Couscous

Ingredients

• 2 cups (400 g) maftoul (Palestinian couscous)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp ground allspice
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• Salt
• Pepper
• 4 cups (946 ml) vegetable stock
• 1 cup (200 g) chickpeas
• 1/2 cup (120 g) yogurt
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• Sumac

Method

1. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat and cook the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until soft.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, allspice, and cinnamon; cook 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the maftoul and stir to coat in the spiced oil; toast about 5 minutes until lightly golden.
4. Pour in the stock, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer 12-15 minutes until the maftoul is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Stir in the chickpeas and warm through for 2-3 minutes.
6. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm topped with yogurt, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of sumac.