Ptitim (Toasted Israeli Pearl Couscous with Tomato and Peas)
Local name: פתיתים
In short: Toasted wheat pearls simmered with onion, carrot, tomato paste and peas into a savory one-pot side that children and adults both love. It takes about 35 min in total and makes 4 servings.
- Prep
- 10 min
- Cook
- 25 min
- Total
- 35 min
- Servings
- 4
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Calories
- 325 kcal
Ptitim, the toasted wheat pearls sold abroad as Israeli couscous, are a childhood staple in Israel, cooked at home as often as rice. The simple version here is toasted in oil, then simmered with onion, carrot, tomato paste and peas in one pot. The grains turn tender and slightly chewy, with a nutty flavor. Serve it as a side with schnitzel or roast chicken, or as a quick vegetarian dinner.
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a wide saucepan over medium heat. Cook the onion and carrot for 6 minutes, until soft, then add the garlic for 1 minute.
- Stir in the tomato paste and paprika for 1 minute. Add the dry ptitim and stir for 2 to 3 minutes, until lightly toasted and coated in oil.
- Pour in the hot water or stock and add the peas, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, stir once, cover and lower the heat.
- Cook for 9 to 10 minutes, until the liquid is absorbed and the ptitim is tender. If it is still firm, add a splash of hot water and cook for 2 minutes more.
- Take the pan off the heat and rest it covered for 3 minutes. Fluff with a fork, stir in the parsley and serve hot.
Tips
- Toasting the ptitim before adding liquid gives a nutty flavor and keeps the grains separate instead of gluey.
- For a main dish, add diced zucchini, sautéed mushrooms or a handful of chickpeas along with the peas.
Questions and answers
What is ptitim?
A small, round, toasted wheat pasta sold as Israeli couscous or pearl couscous. It is made from wheat flour dough that is extruded and toasted, unlike the rolled semolina of North African couscous.
Can I make ptitim ahead?
Yes. It keeps for 3 days in the fridge and reheats with a splash of water. It also makes a good cold salad with a lemon dressing and herbs.
Can I boil ptitim like regular pasta?
Yes. Boil it in salted water for 8 to 10 minutes and drain it, although the absorption method here gives more flavor.
How long does it take to make Ptitim (Toasted Israeli Pearl Couscous with Tomato and Peas)?
About 35 min in total: 10 min of preparation and 25 min of cooking.
How many calories are in Ptitim (Toasted Israeli Pearl Couscous with Tomato and Peas)?
About 325 kcal per serving, with 9 g of protein, 54 g of carbohydrates and 8 g of fat. These values are estimates.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 325 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 54 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 560 mg |
Estimated values, calculated from the ingredients.
