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schug zhug sauce copycat recipe

Schug Zhug Sauce Recipe

Linda Cain
The vibrant, fiery flavor of schug zhug sauce makes it an incredibly versatile addition to numerous dishes.
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Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course sauce
Cuisine American
Servings 2
Calories 171 kcal

Equipment

  • blender or food processor

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 cup fresh hot green chilies such as serrano, seeds removed and roughly chopped (2 to 4)
  • 2 to 3 garlic cloves crushed and peeled
  • 2 cups cilantro leaves and tender stems loosely packed
  • 2 cups flat-leaf parsley leaves and soft stems, loosely packed
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions
 

  • Start by collecting all your ingredients. This makes the process smoother. Check your pantry to ensure you have what you need.
  • Toast the coriander and cumin seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Do this until they’re fragrant—about 2-3 minutes. This step intensifies the flavors.
  • In a blender or food processor, add the toasted seeds, chopped chilies, garlic cloves, cilantro, parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  • Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while blending the mixture. This creates a creamy, cohesive sauce. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the blender to capture all the beautiful herb mixture.
  • Taste your schug, and add salt, freshly cracked black pepper, or more lemon juice if desired. Adjust according to your preferences.
  • Give it one last blend just to mix the seasoning through thoroughly.
  • Enjoy your freshly made schug zhug sauce, or store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Notes

  • Freshness Matters: Use the freshest herbs you can find. They provide the best flavor and aroma.
  • Add Nuts for Texture: Consider adding a handful of toasted nuts like pistachios or walnuts for an added depth of flavor.
  • Adjust the Heat: If the sauce feels too spicy, blend in half an avocado or a bit of yogurt for a creamy, cooling effect.
  • Make Ahead: Schug can be made in advance and stored. The flavors will meld beautifully over time.
  • Experiment: Play around with different herbs, such as mint or dill, to create your own unique twist on this classic sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 171kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 4gFat: 12.2gSaturated Fat: 1.1gSodium: 49mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5g
Keyword schug zhug sauce recipe
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