Instant Pot Pearl Couscous (also known as Israeli couscous) is a quick and tasty side dish with a delightfully chewy texture. Cooked in broth with a touch of olive oil and seasoning, it turns out perfectly every time—no boiling or draining needed.
Prep Time5 minutesmins
Cook Time20 minutesmins
Total Time25 minutesmins
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keyword: instant pot couscous, instant pot pearl couscous
Heat the instant pot in sauté mode and add olive oil to it.
Add the diced shallots and garlic. Saute for 3 minutes.
Add the couscous, salt, black pepper, and water (or broth). Stir it all well.
Change the Instant Pot setting to pressure cook mode on high pressure for 2 minutes.
When the Instant Pot beeps, do 10 minutes NPR. This means release the pressure manually 10 minutes after the beep.
Mix in the lemon juice and garnish with chopped parsley. Give it a gentle stir, and couscous is ready to be enjoyed.
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Notes
Add veggies: If you like, you can add veggies of your choice - bell peppers, carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, edamame, green peas. Add spices: I have kept this couscous very lightly spiced. If you like, you can add more spices.