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Spicy cilantro sauce (Zhoug) served in a bowl with a spoon, next to fresh garlic and herbs.

Spicy Cilantro Sauce (Zhoug Recipe)


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5 from 1 review

  • Author: Ashley
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 cup 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This spicy cilantro sauce (Zhoug) is a bold, herby Middle Eastern condiment made with garlic, chili, and warm spices. Perfect for grilled meats, roasted veggies, or grain bowls.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1/3 cup olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, leaves only, packed
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro with tender stems, packed
  • 2 medium serrano chilies, seeds moved (keep seeds for more heat)
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon coarse black pepper

Instructions

  1. Place a small saucepan over low heat and add the olive oil and garam masala. Warm the spices for about 2-3 minutes. Remove the saucepan from the heat and set it aside.
  2. In a blender or food processor, combine parsley, cilantro, serrano chilies, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Run the blender and slowly drizzle in the olive oil and spice mixture.
  3. Start the blender and slowly pour in the olive oil and spice mixture. Blend until smooth with some texture, for about a minute. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt as needed.
  4. Enjoy right away. Consume within 3 days.

Notes

Use fewer chilies or deseed them for a mild version. Add a tablespoon of water or more olive oil for a looser drizzle

This recipe is inspired by "America's Test Kitchen, The Complete Mediterranean Cookbook".

  • Prep Time: 2 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 minutes
  • Category: Sauce, Dip, Condiment
  • Method: Cook, Blender
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Mediterranean