Robert Colombi of Paris, France, writes: “My mother was Sicilian and my father, Corsican, but I was born in Morocco and lived there for many years. I learned how to cook mostly from my mother, but also from my many travels throughout Morocco (which is why my favorite spices are coriander, thyme, and cumin). As I became older, I developed a stronger interest in cooking, especially after I moved to France and got married. I guess I started to feel very nostalgic about the country of my childhood, and it became more important for me to remember and re-create those tastes for my French friends and family.”

Makes 4 servings.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 1/3pounds lean ground beef (20% fat)
• 1large onion, minced (about2/3 cup)
• 3tablespoons water
• 4teaspoons olive oil
• 1teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1teaspoon ground cumin
• 1teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2teaspoon cayenne pepper110-ounce package plain couscous, prepared according to package instructions
• chopped fresh cilantro

DIRECTIONS Mix first 9 ingredients in medium bowl to blend well. Cover and refrigerate at least 1 hour and up to 1 day.

For each patty, shape 1/4 cup mixture into 3/4-inch-thick round. Heat heavy large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add patties to skillet and cook to desired doneness, about 3 minutes per side for medium-rare.

Mound couscous in center of platter and surround with patties. Sprinkle with cilantro and serve.

Tags: Beef, Couscous, Patties, Recipe, Spiced