Spice up your meals with zhoug: The green sauce sensation
This green sauce adds a kick to an otherwise boring salad, pairs seamlessly with meats, and is a favorite sandwich addition. It quickly wins over spice lovers with its unassuming charm.
At first glance, it might resemble the well-known basil pesto. However, taking a huge spoonful of this creation without caution might leave you surprised. This spicy, cold sauce certainly delivers a punch. When used in moderation, it can significantly enhance the flavor of a simple salad, adding an exotic touch to your everyday menu. It serves as a delicious substitute for sriracha sauce.
Spicy green zhoug sauce
Not everything green is bland, and this recipe proves it. Originating from Yemen, the spicy zhoug sauce has gained worldwide recognition for good reason. This paste is crafted from green chili peppers, fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley, and aromatic spices such as cumin and cardamom. The sauce's consistency can vary, ranging from a thick paste to a more liquid sauce, according to your preference.
Traditionally, zhoug was made by grinding the ingredients between stones, but you can easily prepare it using a blender. It pairs beautifully with hummus, roasted meats, or sandwiches. When mixed with plain yogurt, it transforms into a delightful sandwich dressing.
Ingredients:
- A bunch of cilantro
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 green jalapeño peppers
- 1/2 teaspoon dried chili
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- Pinch of sugar
Preparation method:
- Combine all ingredients except the olive oil in a blender and blend until smooth. Remove the seeds from the peppers before blending if you prefer a milder sauce.
- Gradually add the olive oil until you reach the desired consistency.
The finished sauce boasts intense flavors, so serve it in moderation. You can also adjust the heat using fewer hot peppers and one sweet green pepper for balance. Be sure to remove the seeds and core. Enjoy!
