Savory Potato & Couscous Upside-Down Cake: A Middle Eastern Delight
40 minutes
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About Savory Potato & Couscous Upside-Down Cake: A Middle Eastern Delight
Craving something truly unique? This savory Potato & Couscous Upside-Down Cake flips the script on traditional cake, offering a delightful mix of crispy potatoes and fluffy couscous, infused with aromatic Middle Eastern spices.Imagine a crispy potato crust giving way to a tender couscous center, seasoned with vibrant sumac, pepper, and chili powder. This dish is a feast for the senses, offering a surprising yet satisfying blend of textures and flavors.Perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to a light lunch, this easy-to-make cake is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Prepare to wow your guests with this guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Recipe Time & More
Prep10 minutes
Cook30 minutes
Total40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Potato Crust
For the Couscous Filling
- 1 cup Couscous
- 3 tbsp Potato lump-free, mashed
- 2 tbsp Heavy Cream
- 3 tbsp Cheese processed, shredded
- 1 tsp Chili Powder
- 2 tbsp Parsley chopped, fresh
For Garnish
- 1 1/2 Cherry Tomatoes halved
- 1 tbsp Parsley chopped, fresh
Instructions
- Lightly grease a non-stick skillet and place a round metal ring or cake pan in the center. Arrange the thinly sliced potatoes in the ring, overlapping slightly, to create a base. Season with salt, pepper, and sumac.
- In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add the couscous, cover, and remove from heat. Let it sit for 15 minutes, or until the couscous has absorbed all the water. Fluffing the couscous with a fork after it rests prevents it from becoming gummy.
- Once the couscous has absorbed the water, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.
- In a bowl, combine the fluffed couscous, mashed potato, heavy cream, shredded processed cheese, chili powder, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Spoon the couscous mixture over the potato slices in the skillet, spreading it evenly.
- Cook over low heat for 20-25 minutes, allowing the bottom to become golden brown and crispy.
- Carefully invert the skillet onto a serving plate, revealing the beautiful potato crust.
- Garnish with halved cherry tomatoes and fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Recipe Notes
Good To Know
- Cook on low flame to prevent the potato slices from burning.
- Let the couscous absorb all the water before proceeding with the recipe.
- For an extra-crispy potato crust, pat the potato slices dry before layering them, and brush them lightly with olive oil.
- If you prefer a tangier flavor, add extra sumac between the potato layers or mix it into the cream.
- To make this dish ahead, assemble and refrigerate overnight; bake just before serving.
- For a vegetarian protein boost, add sautéed chickpeas or lentils between the couscous and potatoes.
Expert Tips
- For a richer flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water to cook the couscous.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices in the cream, such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika.
- If you don't have sumac, try using lemon zest for a similar tangy flavor.
Storage Instructions
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Recipe Nutrition
Calories: 27kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 1gFiber: 1gSugar: 1g
6 Comments
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This is fantastic! Thank you for sharing.
Amazing
Very nice recipe.
Innovative recipe
Such a great recipe! Can’t wait to try it.
Such a scrumptious dish! Thank you.