- In a saucepan, add water. Add oil and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil. Now, toast the couscous. In a non-stick skillet heat about 1 to 2 tablespoon oil. Add the couscous and toss around with a wooden spoon until golden brown. Stir couscous,chopped garlic,herbs,onion,cumin in the boiled liquid quickly and immediately turn the heat off. Cover and let sit for 10 minutes. Uncover and fluff with a fork.