Zhoug (Spicy Cilantro Sauce)
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Total Time
5 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
30 kcal
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Course
Condiments
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Cuisine
Yemeni
Zhoug (Spicy Cilantro Sauce)
Description
Zhoug is prepared by finely processing jalapeños with garlic, cumin, salt, Aleppo pepper, and fresh cilantro until it reaches a sauce-like consistency. The olive oil and lemon juice are added afterward to create a smooth blend with a bright acidity and aromatic warmth. This cilantro-based sauce has a fresh herbaceous character paired with a moderate heat from the jalapeños, balanced with the earthiness of cumin and a subtle heat of Aleppo pepper.
The sauce is versatile and can be stirred into other dips like hummus, used as a marinade for meats such as beef shish kabob, or added to Middle Eastern-style sandwiches like shawarma or falafel for an extra spicy kick. Its fresh texture and spicy flavor make it a lively addition to many dishes.
Zhoug should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and used within 3 days to maintain its bright flavor and freshness. If a food processor is not available, finely chopping all ingredients and mixing with olive oil and lemon juice is an alternative preparation method.
Ingredients
- 2 jalapeños seeds removed if you don't want the sauce too spicy
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp Aleppo pepper
- 2 1/2 cups cilantro fresh
- 2/3 cup olive oil extra virgin
- 1 lemon juice of
Instructions
- Place the jalapenos, garlic, cumin, salt and Aleppo pepper in the bowl of a food processor.
- Process until all is combined and finely chopped.
- Add in the cilantro and process again so the cilantro is finely chopped as well.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl. Add in the olive oil and lemon juice. Stir to combine and taste to make sure it has enough salt and lemon juice.
- Store in a jar or a container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Notes
- Store zhoug in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to preserve freshness.
- Try it as a marinade for grilled meats or as a condiment in sandwiches, salads, and dips.
- If a food processor is unavailable, finely chop all ingredients and mix with olive oil and lemon juice manually.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 30 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 30kcal | 2% |
| Carbohydrates | 3g | 1% |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Fat | 2g | 3% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Sodium | 1175mg | 49% |
| Potassium | 119mg | 3% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 3199IU | 64% |
| Vitamin C | 34mg | 38% |
| Calcium | 25mg | 3% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.