Couscous trapanese
Trapani, on Sicily's western tip, looks across the sea to Tunisia, and its cuscusu is the clearest sign of that old connection; every September the nearby town of San Vito Lo Capo holds a whole festival for it. The couscous is steamed, then soaked in a deep, saffron-tinged fish broth made from mixed fish, tomato and ground almonds, so the grains swell and taste of the sea; the fish itself is served alongside. Traditionally the grains are rolled by hand, but bought couscous is perfectly fine. Serve with a bowl of extra hot broth for each person. Chef's tip: after pouring the broth over the couscous, cover it tightly and leave it alone for a full 20 minutes; this resting is what makes the dish.



