Since starting my channel, I’ve found that recipes that redefine a specific ingredient are eye-opening and surprising in the best ways. Learning about such recipes has made me more open to trying different foods, meals, and combinations. Although I never would have thought to soak couscous in orange juice to create a sweet and memorable breakfast, I am so glad to have tried it during Episode 6 of my “5 Breakfasts from 5 Countries” series! Süßer orangencouscous, or sweet orange couscous, is similar to overnight oats… but with couscous. Talk about the unique use of an ingredient!

I usually associate grains with savory foods, so soaking couscous in orange juice and serving it with dried fruit, nuts, maple syrup, and plain yogurt never crossed my mind. Nevertheless, I was honored to receive this submission from Ulrike, who has lived her whole life just outside of Berlin, Germany. Although this breakfast seems very much out of the ordinary, Ulrike assured me that it is very easy to make. As I made süßer orangencouscous, I realized how similar it is in texture and flavor to Western oatmeal. However, the orange juice really adds a whole other level to it! I can see why Ulrike enjoys this meal when she needs to spice up her breakfast routine–and why her husband asks after it when planning weekend breakfasts. 

The morning after preparing my süßer orangencouscous, it had soaked up that bright orange juice and turned a delicate shade of orange. After sitting in the mixture overnight, the dried apricots appeared fresh again! After adding my toppings and sweetener, my little bowl of süßer orangencouscous looked familiar yet unique, and I was so excited to dig into this delightful breakfast. Leaning into the sweet side of couscous is something I never would have done on my own were it not for this recipe, and I am so glad I did!

For me, making this sweet orange couscous really flipped its main ingredient on its head. Some foods have so much more potential than we care to realize, and I really appreciate süßer orangencouscous for opening my eyes to this fact! I hope you enjoy this fruity, hearty escape as much as I did.