Harissa-Spiced Beef with Dates and Couscous

In this recipe, we use harissa, a North African spice paste, as the flavor base for a simple skillet-cooked meat sauce, as well as to season the couscous that’s served alongside. Scallions play a dual role in this dish—the whites are caramelized to lend depth of flavor to the sauce and the greens are sprinkled on as a garnish. Dates (or raisins) lend sweetness that play off the spicy, savory notes.