This commercial couscous mix contains heavily processed ingredients like soy protein isolate, autolyzed yeast extract, and soy sauce that add artificial umami and protein. DIY version eliminates these additives and uses clean organic ingredients like nutritional yeast for natural umami, organic herbs, and pure olive oil for a healthier, more flavorful result.
Based on: COUSCOUS MIX Roasted Garlic & Olive Oil
· Makes approximately 30 servings
· Serving: 2 tablespoons seasoning mix + 1/3 cup organic couscous
Why This Recipe is Seed Oil Free
Commercial COUSCOUS MIX Roasted Garlic & Olive Oil from Near East often contains inflammatory seed oils like canola, soybean, or sunflower oil. This homemade version replaces them with healthier fats like butter, ghee, coconut oil, or avocado oil — giving you the same great taste without the processed oils.
The original COUSCOUS MIX Roasted Garlic & Olive Oil may also contain artificial dyes. Check it on DyeFreeCheck to find out.
Ingredients
Organic wheat couscous
907g (2 lbs) · Bob's Red Mill Organic Wheat Couscous
The grain base that provides the carbohydrates and structure of the dish
Replaces soy sauce with clean umami flavor from coconut, soy-free
Organic parsley
10g (2 tablespoons) · Simply Organic Parsley
Adds fresh herb flavor and natural color without artificial additives
Organic white pepper
5g (1 tablespoon) · Frontier Co-op Organic White Pepper
Provides gentle heat and complexity without overpowering the garlic
Unrefined sea salt
25g (4 teaspoons) · Redmond Real Salt
Enhances all flavors and provides essential minerals
Instructions
Step 1. Measure 45g (1/2 cup) nutritional yeast, 60g (1/2 cup) olive oil powder, 30g (4 tablespoons) garlic powder, 20g (3 tablespoons) onion powder, 25g (3 tablespoons) coconut aminos powder, 10g (2 tablespoons) dried parsley, 5g (1 tablespoon) white pepper, and 25g (4 teaspoons) salt into a large mixing bowl. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy as these powdered ingredients can vary significantly in volume measurements.
Step 2. Whisk all seasonings together vigorously for 3-4 minutes to ensure complete integration - powdered ingredients tend to separate and clump, so thorough mixing is crucial. The mixture should be uniform in color with no visible streaks or pockets of individual spices. If you notice any clumps, break them up with the back of a spoon.
Step 3. Transfer the seasoning blend to an airtight container and shake well. This can be stored for up to 6 months at room temperature. The blend will settle over time, so always shake or stir before each use to redistribute the ingredients evenly.
Step 4. To prepare one serving: Bring 1 cup water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add 1/3 cup (about 50g) organic couscous and 2 level tablespoons (about 15g) of your seasoning mix. Stir once, cover, and remove from heat. Let stand 5 minutes to allow the couscous to fully absorb the liquid and flavors.
Step 5. Fluff the couscous with a fork, starting from the edges and working toward the center to separate the grains without mashing them. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon additional organic olive oil if desired for extra richness. The finished couscous should be light, fluffy, and evenly seasoned with a rich garlic and herb flavor that matches the commercial product's taste profile.
Storage
Store seasoning mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months. Keep couscous in original packaging or airtight container in a cool, dry place. Prepared couscous lasts 3-4 days refrigerated.
Cost Comparison
Cost per serving (homemade)$0.75
Cost per serving (store-bought)$1.25
Savings40%
Higher upfront cost due to buying organic spices in bulk, but significant per-serving savings. Most spice containers will make multiple batches, improving long-term economics.