Oriental Beef and Couscous

Directions

1. 1
   Cook couscous according to package directions on the range top, except omit margarine or butter and salt.
2. 2
   For sauce, stir together preserves, soy sauce, gingerroot, and crushed red pepper; set aside.
3. 3
   thinly slice steak on the bias into bite-size strips.
4. 4
   Place beef strips in a 1 1/2 quart casserole.
5. 5
   Cover and micro-cook on 100% power (high) for 5 or 6 minutes.
6. 6
   (low-wattage ovens: 8-9 minutes) or till meat is tender, stirring after 3 minutes.
7. 7
   Remove meat and discard juices.
8. 8
   In the casserole place mushrooms, green and red pepper strips, and green onions.
9. 9
   Pour sauce mixture over the vegetables.
10. 10
    Toss gently till mixed.
11. 11
    Cover and micro-cook on high for 4-5 minutes (low wattage ovens: 7-8 minutes) or till pepper strips are crisp-tender, stirring after every minute.
12. 12
    Stir together vinegar and cornstarch, then add mixture to casserole.
13. 13
    Stir in meat.
14. 14
    Micro-cook, uncovered, on high for 3-4 minutes (low wattage ovens: 5-6 minutes) or till mixture is thick and bubbly, stirring after every minute.
15. 15
    Serve with cooked couscous or rice.