Israeli couscous

Israeli couscous

Grain

Item Rating: 77/100

1 serving (157 grams) contains 200 calories, 6.0 grams of protein, 1.0 grams of fat, and 42.0 grams of carbohydrates.

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303.0
calories
9.1
protein
63.6
carbohydrates
1.5
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (237.9g)
Calories
303.0
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 1.5 g 1%
Saturated Fat 0 g 0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg 0%
Sodium 7.6 mg 0%
Total Carbohydrates 63.6 g 23%
Dietary Fiber 3.0 g 10%
Sugars 0 g
protein 9.1 g 18%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 15.2 mg 1%
Iron 2.3 mg 12%
Potassium 75.8 mg 1%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar
🧂 Low sodium
🧂 Low salt

Source of Calories

83.6%
12.0%
4.4%
Fat: 13 cal (4.4%)
Protein: 36 cal (12.0%)
Carbs: 254 cal (83.6%)

About Israeli couscous

Israeli couscous, also known as pearl couscous, is a type of pasta made from wheat flour and water, originating from Israel in the 1950s. Unlike traditional couscous, its grains are larger, rounder, and toasted to give them a nutty flavor and chewy texture. Israeli couscous is a versatile ingredient used in a variety of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and North African dishes, often serving as a base for salads, stews, or grain bowls. Nutritionally, Israeli couscous provides a good source of carbohydrates for energy, with moderate levels of protein and minimal fat. It's also low in dietary fiber unless enriched with whole grains or paired with fiber-rich ingredients, making it an adaptable yet straightforward food choice in balanced diets.

Health Benefits

  • Provides sustained energy due to its carbohydrate content, offering approximately 36-40 grams of carbohydrates per cup of cooked couscous.
  • Contains protein at around 6 grams per cooked cup, which supports muscle repair and growth.
  • Low in saturated fat, contributing to heart health when included in a balanced diet.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains wheat, gluten
Suitable for: Vegetarian, low-fat diets
Not suitable for: Gluten-free diets, wheat allergy sufferers

Selection and Storage

Store Israeli couscous in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Once cooked, refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container and consume within 3-5 days.

Common Questions About Israeli couscous Nutrition

Is Israeli couscous high in protein?

Israeli couscous contains around 6 grams of protein per cup when cooked, making it a moderate source of protein. While not as high as legumes or animal products, it can contribute to daily protein needs when paired with other protein-rich foods.

Can I eat Israeli couscous on a keto diet?

Israeli couscous is not suitable for a keto diet because it is made from wheat flour and contains approximately 36 grams of carbohydrates per cooked cup. Keto diets typically require foods very low in carbohydrates to maintain ketosis.

What are the health benefits of Israeli couscous?

Israeli couscous is a good source of energy due to its carbohydrate content and provides small amounts of nutrients like selenium, which supports antioxidant defenses. However, it is less nutrient-dense compared to whole grains and higher-fiber options.

What is the recommended serving size for Israeli couscous?

A typical serving size of Israeli couscous is about 1 cup cooked, which contains approximately 180 calories. This portion is ideal when paired with vegetables and proteins for a balanced meal.

How does Israeli couscous compare to regular couscous?

Israeli couscous is larger in size and has a chewier texture compared to regular couscous, which is finer and fluffier. Nutritionally, both are similar, but Israeli couscous tends to hold sauces and flavors better due to its shape and texture.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.