Bring water to a boil in a pot, add coucous, 1 tablespoon oil, salt, raisins and spices. Stir to mix. Cover with lid, turn off heat and let sit for about five minutes.
Remove lid, fluff the couscous with a fork, add remaining oil and stir. Reserving some for garnish, stir in pomegranate seeds and cilantro.
Recipe by Three Many Cooks at https://threemanycooks.com/recipes/salads-and-sides/nigellas-festive-couscous/