Pronunciation: [kˈʌskəs] (IPA) 
The word "Kuskus" is spelled with two pairs of similar sounds: the velar consonant /k/ and the schwa vowel /ə/. These sounds repeat twice in the word, with the second "k" being pronounced slightly stronger than the first. The word also ends with a consonant cluster made up of the voiceless fricative /s/ and the voiced fricative /z/. In phonetic transcription, the word "Kuskus" is represented as /ˈkʊskʊs/.
Kuskus, also spelled as couscous, is a traditional North African dish as well as a type of grain that forms the basis for the dish. As a dish, kuskus typically consists of tiny granules of semolina wheat, steamed or soaked to a fluffy consistency. It is often mixed with various vegetables, meats, and spices to create a flavorful and versatile meal. Kuskus is commonly prepared using a special pot called a couscousière, which has a perforated steaming basket for cooking the grain and a pot underneath for stewing or braising ingredients.
Kuskus can also refer to the grain itself. It is made by grinding durum wheat into semolina and then rolling it into small, granular balls. These balls are then sprinkled with water and rolled by hand until they become the desired size. The process of making kuskus is labor-intensive, requiring skill and patience to achieve its distinct texture.
Due to its mild flavor and ability to absorb various flavors, kuskus has gained popularity in many cuisines beyond North Africa, such as Middle Eastern and Mediterranean. It can be used as a hearty base for stews, salads, or served as a side dish. Kuskus is often praised for its versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to complement a variety of ingredients.
The word "kuskus" has its etymology from the Malayan language, particularly from the Malay and Indonesian languages. In Malay, "kuskus" refers to a type of marsupial, specifically the common northern quoll (Dasyurus hallucatus), which is native to Southeast Asia and Australia. The word was then adopted into English to describe this marsupial. Additionally, "kuskus" can also refer to a type of small, round pasta originating from Italy, likely having a different etymology.
