Put couscous into a heatproof bowl. Stir in raisins, kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon each paprika, ground cumin, and ground coriander, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Pour boiling water over couscous, and cover bowl with plastic wrap; let sit 10–15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff couscous with a fork; transfer to a serving dish. Mix 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds into couscous and scatter remaining 1/4 cup on top. Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro, and serve.
Nigella Christmas (Hyperion; $35)