Chicken Couscous Paulista

c
@cocinero44

Cuscuz Paulista is a traditional Brazilian dish with roots in North Africa, introduced by Moroccan slaves and Portuguese colonizers. Over centuries, it evolved into a beloved recipe in Brazil, particularly in São Paulo, where it was popularized by 'tropeiros.' This hearty dish, made with cornmeal, chicken, and vegetables, can be...

Chicken Couscous Paulista recipe
Prep Time
30min
Cook Time
20min
Total Time
50min

Ingredients

6 Servings
(1 serving = 1 slice of Cuscuz Paulista)
  • chicken breasts, cooked and cut into thin strips
    chicken breasts, cooked and cut into thin strips
    4lb
  • hard-boiled egg
    hard-boiled egg
    1
  • thinly sliced tomatoes
    thinly sliced tomatoes
    2
  • chopped tomato
    chopped tomato
    1
  • garlic, minced
    garlic, minced
    2clove
  • corn kernels
    corn kernels
    1can
  • cornmeal
    cornmeal
    4cups
  • boiling water
    boiling water
    1 1/2L
  • chicken bouillon cubes
    chicken bouillon cubes
    2
  • cooked peas
    cooked peas
    1cup
  • steamed and chopped carrots
    steamed and chopped carrots
    1/2cup
  • tomato paste
    tomato paste
    3tbsp
  • ground chili pepper
    ground chili pepper
    1tbsp
  • sweet paprika
    sweet paprika
    1tbsp
  • salt
    salt
    1dash
  • pepper
    pepper
    1dash
  • oil
    oil
    1tbsp

How to make Chicken Couscous Paulista

  1. Step 1

    Prepare a savarin mold by greasing it with oil. Arrange the tomato slices, hard-boiled egg slices, and some of the peas in the mold for decoration.

  2. Step 2

    In a saucepan, heat a little oil and sauté the minced onion and garlic.

  3. Step 3

    Add the cooked chicken strips to the pan and cook until golden.

  4. Step 4

    Add the chicken bouillon cubes (dissolved in a small amount of boiled water), steamed carrots, chopped tomato, corn kernels, and the remaining peas, along with the tomato paste.

  5. Step 5

    Season with salt, pepper, ground chili pepper, and sweet paprika.

  6. Step 6

    Pour in the boiling water and gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Cook over low heat for about 4 minutes.

  7. Step 7

    Remove from heat and pour the mixture into the prepared mold.

  8. Step 8

    Let the preparation cool slightly, then unmold.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

751.7kcal (37.58%)

Protein

75.0g (100%)

Carbs

100.0g (36.36%)

Sugars

8.3g (16.66%)

Healthy Fat

8.7g

Unhealthy Fat

3.3g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Ensure the mold is well-greased to prevent sticking when unmolding.

  2. Stir constantly while adding the cornmeal to avoid lumps.

  3. For added flavor, use homemade chicken stock instead of bouillon cubes.

  4. Serve with mayonnaise or tomato sauce for a complementary taste.

FAQS

  1. Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

    Yes, you can substitute chicken with shredded beef or pork, but the traditional recipe uses chicken.

  2. What can I use if I don't have a savarin mold?

    You can use any ring-shaped mold or even a regular cake pan, but the presentation may differ.

  3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

    Yes, you can replace the chicken with more vegetables or tofu and use vegetable bouillon cubes instead of chicken bouillon.

  4. How long does Cuscuz Paulista last?

    It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

  5. Can I freeze Cuscuz Paulista?

    Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the cornmeal may change upon thawing.

Loading reviews...

chefadora
© 2025 Chefadora Pty Ltd, All Rights Reserved

Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia