Zhoug (also spelled zhug, skhug, or sahawiq) is a Middle Eastern spice blend that originates from Yemen. It is a bright green, herbaceous blend that packs a flavorful punch. Zhoug typically contains fresh herbs such as cilantro and parsley, along with hot peppers, garlic, and spices such as cumin, coriander, and cardamom.
Zhoug is often used as a condiment to add a burst of flavor to dishes such as falafel, grilled meats, and roasted vegetables. It can also be used as a marinade or a sauce for dipping bread. Zhoug has a bright, fresh flavor with a subtle heat that can vary depending on the amount of hot peppers used.
Zhoug is easy to make at home with a blender or food processor. It is typically made with fresh ingredients, so it is important to use it within a few days. Zhoug can also be frozen for later use.
How To Make Zhoug At Home
Here’s a simple recipe for zhoug:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
- 3-4 hot peppers (such as jalapeno or serrano), seeded and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Directions:
- Combine all ingredients in a blender or food processor.
- Pulse until the mixture is finely chopped and well combined. Scrape down the sides as needed.
- Drizzle in the olive oil while blending until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Store zhoug in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
How To Use Zhoug In Food Dishes
Zhoug is a versatile spice blend that can be used in a variety of ways to add flavor and heat to your dishes. Here are some ways you can use zhoug:
- As a condiment: Zhoug is traditionally served as a condiment in Middle Eastern cuisine. It’s perfect for dipping bread, drizzling over roasted vegetables or grilled meats, or stirring into yogurt to make a tangy and spicy sauce.
- In marinades: Zhoug can be added to marinades to infuse your meats or vegetables with its bold flavor. Mix it with olive oil and lemon juice for a delicious marinade for chicken, lamb, or fish.
- In dressings: Add zhoug to your salad dressings to give them a spicy kick. It pairs well with lemon or lime juice and olive oil for a fresh and zesty dressing.
- In sauces: Zhoug can be used to spice up tomato-based sauces for pasta or pizza, or added to hummus or other bean dips to give them a spicy twist.
- On roasted or grilled meats and vegetables: Sprinkle zhoug over roasted or grilled meats and vegetables for a bold and flavorful finish. It works particularly well with lamb, chicken, eggplant, and zucchini.
Remember that zhoug is a spicy blend, so use it sparingly at first until you get a feel for its heat level.
Food Dishes That Incorporate Zhoug
Here are a variety of food dishes that use zhoug:
- Grilled meats: Zhoug is a perfect marinade or sauce for grilled chicken, beef, or lamb.
- Shakshuka: This classic Middle Eastern egg dish can be spiced up with a dollop of zhoug on top.
- Falafel: A drizzle of zhoug on top of crispy falafel balls is a great way to add some heat and flavor.
- Sandwiches: Add a spread of zhoug to your favorite sandwich, like a grilled cheese or veggie wrap.
- Roasted vegetables: Toss roasted vegetables with a bit of zhoug to add some zing to your side dish.
- Hummus: Mix a bit of zhoug into your hummus for a spicy kick.
- Rice and grain bowls: Top your rice or grain bowl with some zhoug for a burst of flavor.
- Tacos: Add a spoonful of zhoug to your tacos for a fresh and spicy twist.
- Soups and stews: Stir in some zhoug to your favorite soup or stew for an added depth of flavor.
- Grilled fish: Drizzle some zhoug on top of grilled fish for a fresh and spicy finishing touch.