Buttered Couscous

Directions

1. 1
   Put the couscous in a colander and rinse thoroughly with cool water.
2. 2
   Drain well and spread out in a large shallow pan.
3. 3
   Season lightly with salt.
4. 4
   Let the couscous swell for 15 minutes, then rub your fingers through the couscous to break up any lumps.
5. 5
   Set up a steamer: Bring 8 cups of water to a boil in the bottom of the steamer.
6. 6
   Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, garlic, ginger, cilantro, and lemon leaves (a fragrant addition if you have access to a lemon tree).
7. 7
   Reduce the heat to maintain a brisk boil.
8. 8
   Transfer the couscous to the steamer basket (if the holes in the steamer basket are large, line the basket with damp cheesecloth), cover tightly, and steam for 20 minutes.
9. 9
   Transfer the couscous back to the shallow pan and moisten with 1/2 cup of water.
10. 10
    Using a spoon or your hands, fluff the grains and break up any lumps.
11. 11
    Let the couscous rest for 15 minutes at room temperature, then return it to the steamer, and steam for another 20 minutes.
12. 12
    Drizzle with the melted butter, and fluff the grains once more.
13. 13
    Taste for salt, and serve.
14. 14
    The couscous can sit for some time before the final steaming.
15. 15
    Cover it with a damp clean dish towel to keep it moist, and break up any lumps before returning it to the steamer.