The problem with my kitchen is that I never have enough light, even in the summertime I have to turn on the light to cook. That explains my photos to a degree (I'm not trying to make excuses here), and I confess I'd love to have a kitchen like Roxana's (sigh). Until then, let's make some couscous!
The ingredients are:
- 3 tbsp butter, divided
- 1/2 cup pine nuts
- 1/2 cup shallots, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups Israeli couscous
- 1/2 large cinnamon stick
- 1 fresh or dried bay leaf
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup parsley, minced
- zest of 1/2 lemon
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- black pepper to taste
Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Add pine nuts and stir until golden brown, then transfer to a small bowl.

