Couscous Semolina Buns

These original and fluffy buns, made with fine couscous semolina, offer a slightly grainy texture and a delicately fragrant taste. Perfect to accompany your meals or fill with savory or sweet fillings.

Ingredients (for 8 buns):

• 300 g fine couscous semolina
• 200 g white flour (T45 or T55)
• 1 sachet of dry yeast (7 g) or 20 g of fresh yeast
• 10 g salt
• 30 g sugar
• 200 ml lukewarm water
• 50 ml lukewarm milk (or plant-based milk for a vegan version)
• 40 g olive oil (or neutral oil)
• 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds or nigella seeds (optional, for decoration)

Preparation:

1. Activate the yeast:
   In a bowl, mix lukewarm water, lukewarm milk, and sugar. Add the yeast and let it rest for 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

2. Prepare the dough:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the fine semolina, flour, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and the oil.

3. Knead:
   Mix the ingredients until a homogeneous dough forms. Knead for 8–10 minutes (by hand or with a mixer). The dough should be soft and slightly sticky. If it’s too dry, add a little water; if it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a bit of flour.

4. First rise:
   Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1.5 hours or until it doubles in size.

5. Shape the buns:
   Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Shape them into smooth balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle with sesame or nigella seeds if desired.

6. Second rise:
   Cover the buns with a cloth and let them rest for another 30–40 minutes.

7. Bake:
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (fan-assisted). Bake the buns for 15–18 minutes until lightly golden.

8. Cool:
   Let the buns cool on a wire rack before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• Savory: Fill them with grilled vegetables, hummus, falafels, or melted cheese.
• Sweet: Spread with jam, honey, or chocolate spread.

Drink Suggestion:

A hot Moroccan mint tea pairs wonderfully with these buns for a complete culinary journey. For a chilled option, try a lemon-mint iced tea.