Preparation & Usage - Near East Frequently Asked Questions
If I only want to spend 15 minutes or less preparing a side dish, what products can I make?
Near East® couscous takes only 5 minutes to prepare. and makes a unique and delicious side dish or main dish.
Can I prepare 2 boxes of Near East® at once (double the recipe)?
Two packages can be prepared at once on the range top. Use double the amount of butter or oil, water, tomatoes or any other added ingredients listed in the directions for one box. Prepare according to the Range Top package directions. We do not recommend making more than one box in the microwave. The amount of water and product involved takes too long to come to a boil in the microwave, thus the results are not as good.
We do not have specific recommendations for making 3 or more boxes. The amount of water may not be optimal if more than two boxes are prepared at a time. If the standard directions have just slightly too much water, 3 times the amount may be way too much.
Can I combine two different types of Near East® together when doubling?
If the box directions of the two different products are compatible (i.e. same amount of added oil, water, and cooking time) then it is possible to combine them by using the doubling guidelines listed above. You can also prepare them as directed on the package and then combine them.
Can I use a rice cooker or steamer for couscous or rice pilaf?
Check the rice cooker manufacturer's directions for their instructions for preparation of couscous, instant or parboiled (or converted) long grain rice. If the manufacturer doesn't have instructions, we don't have any special tips available. Our products are optimized for range top and microwave preparation methods so we can not guarantee the results with various rice cookers and other appliances.
What is the best way to store and reheat prepared couscous or rice pilaf?
Leftover couscous or pilaf should be refrigerated in a tightly sealed storage container or zip lock plastic bag. To reheat, add 1 to 3 tablespoons water for each cup of leftover couscous or pilaf (couscous may need more water depending on the wattage of your microwave as it tends to dry out faster than pilaf). Stir gently while cold. Reheat in the microwave oven. Couscous and Pilaf can also be reheated over medium low heat in a saucepan on the stove, stirring occasionally.
How long can I keep prepared couscous or rice pilaf in the refrigerator?
For best results, store Near East® products in your refrigerator for no more than two days. After this time, we cannot guarantee freshness.
Can I freeze already prepared couscous or rice for later use?
Freezing is not recommended, as freezing changes the texture of the rice or couscous unfavorably.
Following are some suggestions for fixes to couscous/pilaf preparations that have gone wrong:
To avoid quality issues, be sure to always follow the recommended cooking instructions on the back panel of each box. Cooking instructions may vary per product. If the product does not come out right, you may try the following:
- If product is too soft - Decrease cooking time by three minutes. If product is the desired texture, but too saucy, decrease water by 1/4 cup.
- If product is too firm - Increase cooking time from 3 to 5 minutes.
- If product is too sticky, sticks to the pan, etc.- Decrease the temperature of the burner. Product sticks when it is cooked too quickly. Be sure when you are simmering, the burner dial is turned to the low position.
- If product is too dry - Try lowering the burner temperature slightly, and increasing the water by 1/4 cup.
- If product is too moist - increase the cooking time by 3 to 5 minutes.
Can I substitute margarine or another type of cooking oil in place of butter or olive oil in preparing Near East® products? What about PAM or a cooking spray?
Yes, it is fine to substitute other types of cooking oil or margarine for butter or olive oil. PAM or cooking spray may be used as a substitute if desired, but the quality and texture of the rice will be affected.
Can I use less butter or olive oil than the package directs?
Low fat directions are located on the box. For best results follow these directions when reducing or eliminating butter or olive oil.
The package gives a range of cooking times. Which one should I use?
Ranges of cooking times are given in regards to microwave cooking directions. This is because microwave ovens vary in the amount of power they supply (wattage). When using microwave directions for the first time, use the lower time in the time range and add additional time in one-minute increments as needed.
What if I live at a high altitude?
At elevations above 3,500 feet, water boils at a lower temperature and evaporates more quickly than it does at sea level. High altitude directions are listed on the back of the box.
How long does it take to prepare couscous?
Couscous can be prepared in just 5 minutes! Just boil water, add couscous, remove from heat and let water absorb, then stir and serve!
How long does it take to prepare rice pilaf?
While preparation times vary across products, most Near East® rice pilaf products take about 25-30 minutes to prepare. Just follow the directions on the package and you will have a delicious side dish in less than half an hour!
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