Cooked CouscousVSRaw Couscous

Comparing different preparation states of Couscous

Cooked Couscous

Plant
May lack some essential amino acids. Good to pair with variety.
Cereal Grains and Pasta USDA #169700
Protein3.8g
Cals
112
Fat
0.2g
Carbs
23.2g

Raw Couscous

Plant
May lack some essential amino acids. Good to pair with variety.
Cereal Grains and Pasta USDA #169699
Top Protein
Protein12.8g
Cals
376
Fat
0.6g
Carbs
77.4g

Nutritional Comparison Summary

When comparing Cooked Couscous and Raw Couscous, there are notable nutritional differences that can influence your dietary choices. Raw Couscous contains 9.0g more protein per 100g serving, representing a 237% difference in protein content. With 12.8g of protein, Raw Couscous is the superior choice for those prioritizing protein intake. For those watching their calorie intake, Cooked Couscous offers only 112 calories per 100g compared to 376 calories in Raw Couscous. In terms of protein efficiency (protein per calorie), Raw Couscous delivers more protein for fewer calories, making it an efficient protein source.

Best For Your Goals

Muscle Building & Recovery

Raw Couscous

With 12.8g of protein per 100g, Raw Couscous provides the higher protein content needed to support muscle protein synthesis, post-workout recovery, and lean muscle maintenance.

Weight Loss & Calorie Control

Cooked Couscous

At only 112 calories per 100g, Cooked Couscous allows you to maintain a calorie deficit while still getting essential nutrients, making it ideal for weight management and fat loss goals.

Maximum Protein per Calorie

Raw Couscous

Raw Couscous offers the best protein-to-calorie ratio, delivering 12.8g of protein for just 376 calories, perfect for maximizing protein intake while minimizing caloric load.

Vegetarian & Plant-Based Diets

Raw Couscous

Both are excellent plant-based options. Raw Couscous edges ahead with 12.8g of protein per serving, making it slightly better for meeting daily protein requirements on a vegetarian diet.

Low-Carb & Ketogenic Diets

Cooked Couscous

With only 23.2g of carbohydrates per 100g, Cooked Couscous fits perfectly into low-carb and ketogenic meal plans while providing substantial protein to maintain muscle mass during carb restriction.

General Fitness & Balanced Nutrition

Raw Couscous

For everyday fitness enthusiasts seeking balanced nutrition, Raw Couscous offers a good protein content at 12.8g with 376 calories, fitting well into most active lifestyle meal plans.

Key Differences

Protein Gap
9.0g
237% difference
Calorie Gap
264
236% difference
Fat Gap
0.5g
Carb Gap
54.2g

Category Winners

💪
Most Protein
Per 100g serving
Raw Couscous
📉
Lowest Calories
For weight loss
Cooked Couscous
Best Efficiency
Protein per calorie
Raw Couscous
Source: USDA FoodData Central • Data as of 2026-01-05