Travelers' Pepperpot

Directions

1. 1
   Put dry couscous in a 1 quart container.
2. 2
   In a large (3 quart) stainless steel electric fondue pot heat 3/4 - 1 cup water (or chicken broth if you have more than you need for the stew) to boiling.
3. 3
   Unplug the fondue pot and pour the boiling water over the couscous; stir to moisten all the couscous.
4. 4
   Cover the bowl with a plate or towel.
5. 5
   Set aside.
6. 6
   Plug in the fondue pot again and heat the oil or butter on medium.
7. 7
   Saute fresh okra until browned.
8. 8
   (If using frozen okra, add it later with the shrimp.)
9. 9
   Add onion, garlic, jalapeno, and bell peppers and cook stirring for 15-20 minutes, adding a little water if necessary to prevent sticking.
10. 10
    Stir in tomatoes, clam and chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, and ground black pepper to taste.
11. 11
    Reduce heat and cook on slow simmer for 20 minutes, or until veggies are softened.
12. 12
    Add more chicken broth or water if the liquid boils away too quickly.
13. 13
    Add shrimp, scallops, and frozen okra if using, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook until shrimp turn pink and scallops are opaque.
14. 14
    Uncover the couscous (which has now absorbed the water), fluff with a fork, and place about 1/2 cup couscous in each of two or three bowls or plates.
15. 15
    Unplug the fondue pot, remove the bay leaf then ladle the pepperpot stew over the couscous equally distributing shrimp and scallops in the bowls or plates, top with cilantro and grated citrus rind.
16. 16
    Serve warm with crusty chunks of whole wheat artisan bread or baguette to soak up the juices if desired.