By Sky Hanka, MS, NBC-HWC |
October 25, 2024
Zhoug Sauce is a bold, herbaceous sauce that packs a punch with fresh cilantro, parsley, and a spicy kick from jalapeños. This Middle Eastern-inspired sauce is vibrant, spicy, and versatile, making it a fantastic addition to a wide variety of dishes.
About This Recipe
With earthy spices like turmeric, ginger, cumin, coriander, and cardamom, balanced by the freshness of lemon juice, cilantro, and parsley, this zhoug sauce is perfect for adding a burst of flavor. Adjust the spice level to your preference, and enjoy this easy, no-cook sauce as a dip, spread, or topping for countless dishes.
How to Prepare Your Zhoug Sauce
Total Time: 10 Minutes
Yields: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cilantro, packed (stems and leaves)
- ½ cup fresh parsley, packed (stems and leaves)
- 1-2 jalapeños, seeded (adjust for desired spice level)
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ cup olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp ground cardamom
- ½ tsp ground ginger (or 1 tsp fresh grated ginger)
- ½ tsp ground turmeric
- 2-3 tbsp water (to adjust consistency)
Preparation
Step 1: Blend Ingredients
In a food processor, combine the cilantro, parsley, jalapeños, garlic, cumin, coriander, cardamom, ginger, and turmeric. Pulse until the mixture is coarsely chopped. You can also chop all the ingredients by hand if desired or use a mortar and pestle.
Step 2: Add Oil and Lemon, Adjust Heat and Enjoy!
Add the olive oil and lemon juice, blending until smooth. Gradually add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, to achieve your desired consistency. For a spicier sauce, leave some jalapeño seeds in. For a milder version, remove all seeds or use just one jalapeño.
Store in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Ways to Enjoy
- Drizzle: Perfect for drizzling over grilled meats, falafel, or roasted vegetables for a burst of flavor.
- Spread: Use as a spread for sandwiches, wraps, or pita bread.
- Dip: Serve as a zesty dip with warm pita or fresh veggies.
- Topping: Add a spoonful to grain bowls or eggs for an extra layer of flavor.
Herbaceous and Spicy Zhoug Sauce
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 1 cup
This Herbaceous and Spicy Zhoug Sauce brings vibrant, spicy flavors to any dish, adding a fresh twist to both traditional and modern meals. Enjoy it as a versatile and flavorful addition to your kitchen!
Ingredients
1 cup fresh cilantro, packed (stems and leaves)
½ cup fresh parsley, packed (stems and leaves)
1-2 jalapeños, seeded (adjust for desired spice level)
3 cloves garlic, peeled
2 tbsp lemon juice
¼ cup olive oil or avocado oil
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
½ tsp ground cardamom
½ tsp ground ginger (or 1 tsp fresh grated ginger)
½ tsp ground turmeric
2-3 tbsp water (to adjust consistency)
Instructions
1.Blend Ingredients
In a food processor, combine the cilantro, parsley, jalapeños, garlic, cumin, coriander, cardamom, ginger, and turmeric. Pulse until the mixture is coarsely chopped. You can also chop all the ingredients by hand if desired or use a mortar and pestle.
2.Add Oil and Lemon, Adjust Heat and Enjoy2.
Add the olive oil and lemon juice, blending until smooth. Gradually add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, to achieve your desired consistency. For a spicier sauce, leave some jalapeño seeds in. For a milder version, remove all seeds or use just one jalapeño.
Nutritional Facts
Serving Size: 1 ounce (2-3 tbsp)
Calories Per Serving: 86 kcal
| Total Fat | 8.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.2 g |
| Trans Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 5.2 g |
| Total Carbohydrate | 2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.7 g |
| Sugars | 0.5 g |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
| Vitamin A | 2 % |
| Calcium | 2 % |
| Vitamin C | 29 % |
| Iron | 5 % |
| * Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. | |