lemon-couscous-cake

You'll Need:

CAKE: 5 C. + 1 T. unsweetened apple juice
1 C. chopped dates (Medjool are good)
pinch of salt
2 C. uncooked whole-grain couscous
finely grated zest of one lemon (or to taste)

TOPPING:
3/4 C. unsweetened apple juice
1/4 C. lemon juice
2 T. maple syrup
1 T. kudzu or arrowroot powder dissolved in 1 T. apple juice


Procedures : In a large saucepan, heat apple juice to boiling. Add dates and salt.
Cover, reduce heat and simmer gently for 10 minutes.

While dates are simmering, heat a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-
low heat. Add couscous and cook 5-10 minutes, until lightly toasted. Stir
as necessary.

Gradually add toasted couscous to simmering apple juice and dates, stirring
constantly. Cook, stirring, 3 to 4 minutes, until mixture thickens. Stir in
lemon zest and remove from heat.

Rinse a 10-inch round or 9-inch square glass or ceramic baking pan with
water. Shake out excess water, do not dry. Spread couscous mixture evenly in
pan. Set aside to cool.

TOPPING:

In a small saucepan, whisk apple juice and maple syrup. Heat just to simmer
and add dissolved kudzu, whisking constantly. Cook briefly, whisking until
thick. Spread on cooled couscous.