Go Back
–+ servings
schug zhug sauce copycat recipe
Linda Cain

Schug Zhug Sauce Recipe

The vibrant, fiery flavor of schug zhug sauce makes it an incredibly versatile addition to numerous dishes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: sauce
Cuisine: American
Calories: 171
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

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

Equipment

  • blender or food processor

Method
 

  1. Start by collecting all your ingredients. This makes the process smoother. Check your pantry to ensure you have what you need.
  2. 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.
  3. In a blender or food processor, add the toasted seeds, chopped chilies, garlic cloves, cilantro, parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  4. 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.
  5. Taste your schug, and add salt, freshly cracked black pepper, or more lemon juice if desired. Adjust according to your preferences.
  6. Give it one last blend just to mix the seasoning through thoroughly.
  7. Enjoy your freshly made schug zhug sauce, or store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Nutrition

Calories: 171kcalCarbohydrates: 16gProtein: 4gFat: 12.2gSaturated Fat: 1.1gSodium: 49mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5g

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.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!