Algeria is a large country in North Africa, but 80% of its land is covered by the Sahara Desert. The Algerian food culture is influenced by the Berbers, the French, the Arabs, and the Ottomans. Couscous holds a special place in Algerian cuisine. It’s not just a dish—it’s a symbol of hospitality and tradition. It’s often served during celebrations and gatherings, signifying unity and shared heritage. Preparing couscous is a communal activity that brings families together. 

We are making Algerian-style couscous with chicken. This vegetable-heavy stew is slowly cooked with garlic, dry mint, and the most aromatic spice mix: ras-el-hanout. We love this dish as a family. Our six-year-old, Kabir, liked this but found the cinnamon kick spicy.

Gluten-free: A gluten-free option is available with rice

Ingredients: Boneless chicken thighs, onion, garlic, carrot, tomato, celery, zucchini, potato, rutabaga, chickpeas, jalapeňo, preserved lemon, mint, couscous, olive oil, salt, pepper, and  ras el hanout spice mix: ginger, cardamom, mace, cinnamon, allspice, coriander, nutmeg, turmeric, black pepper, white pepper, cayenne, anise seed, clove

Adobo is a cooking method originating in the Philippines. It involves marinating meat, vegetables, and seafood in vinegar, soy sauce, bay leaves, and garlic. This way of cooking meat or vegetables helps preserve the meat in hot temperatures. When the Spanish invaded and settled in the Philippines during the 16th century, they witnessed this traditional cooking method and called it adobo, the Spanish word for a marinade. There are many versions of this dish in the Philippines. Our version includes pork shoulder braised in rice vinegar, tamari, bay leaves, and garlic, then slow-cooked in a pineapple and oyster sauce marinade. This version contains puréed and caramelized pineapple so you can bite into some caramelized pineapple chunks! This dish is great for kids and adults. 

This dish is served with a side of white rice and Ginisang Sayote or sauteed chayote squash with bonito flakes (optional).

Ingredients: Pork, pineapple, garlic, onions, salt, scallion, black pepper, rice vinegar, tamari, oyster sauce, bay leaves, chayote squash, bonito flakes optional (optional) and canola oil.