Raw CouscousVSCooked Couscous

Raw Couscous has 9.0g more protein per 100g than Cooked Couscous — 12.8g vs 3.8g, a 70% difference caused by water loss during cooking, which concentrates protein by weight. Calorie and macronutrient values shift by the same mechanism. Source: USDA FoodData Central.

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Data as of Jan 2026

Nutrition comparison per 100g: Raw Couscous vs Cooked Couscous (Source: USDA FoodData Central)
Nutrient (per 100g) Raw CouscousCooked Couscous
Protein 12.8 g3.8 g
Calories 376 kcal112 kcal
Total fat 0.6 g0.2 g
Carbohydrates 77.4 g23.2 g

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

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

Which food fits which goal?

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.

What are the key nutritional differences?

Protein Gap
9.0g
-70% difference
Calorie Gap
264
-70% 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