Zhoug (Spicy Cilantro Sauce)

Name: Zhoug (Spicy Cilantro Sauce)
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 6 jalapeno peppers (or hot green chiles); 2 garlic cloves; 1 packed cup fresh cilantro leaves; 1/2 packed cup fresh parsley; 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil; Juice of 1 lemon; Ground spices: cumin, coriander, cardamom

Published: November 2, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this flavorful sauce in no time.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs and spices creates a zesty profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
Versatile Usage: Perfect as a dip, drizzle over dishes, or use as a marinade – Zhoug fits well in various cuisines.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh herbs and healthy fats from olive oil, this sauce is both delicious and nutritious.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge for easy access during the week.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Zhoug (Spicy Cilantro Sauce), you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Food processor
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Food processor: Essential for blending the ingredients into a smooth paste quickly and easily.
Knife: A sharp knife simplifies the chopping process of your peppers and garlic.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients while keeping your workspace organized.

Ingredients

This Middle Eastern hot sauce, with its spicy, warming, herbaceous and citrusy flavor, will bring everything–from simple scrambled eggs to a whole falafel spread–to new heights.

For the Sauce

6 jalapeno peppers (or hot green chiles, trimmed and sliced)
2 garlic cloves (peeled)
Kosher salt
1 packed cup fresh cilantro leaves
1/2 packed cup fresh parsley
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground green cardamom
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 lemon (juiced)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Zhoug (Spicy Cilantro Sauce)

Step 1: Chop the Jalapeno and Garlic

In the bowl of a food processor fitted with a blade, add the jalapeno, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until coarsely chopped.

Step 2: Add the Seasonings

Now add the cilantro, parsley, cumin, coriander, and cardamom. Run the food processor until you achieve a thick, cohesive paste.

Step 3: Finish

Transfer the cilantro paste to a bowl. Add the olive oil and lemon juice; stir to combine thoroughly. Enjoy your Zhoug on various dishes!

How to Serve Zhoug (Spicy Cilantro Sauce)

Zhoug, the spicy cilantro sauce, is incredibly versatile and can elevate many dishes. Its bold flavor pairs well with various foods, enhancing both simple and elaborate meals.

With Eggs

Scrambled Eggs – Stir in a spoonful of zhoug into your scrambled eggs for a spicy kick.
Egg Sandwiches – Spread zhoug on toast or in an omelet for an exciting breakfast option.

With Falafel

Falafel Wraps – Drizzle zhoug over falafel wraps to add freshness and heat.
Dipping Sauce – Serve zhoug as a dip alongside crispy falafel for added flavor.

With Grilled Meats

Marinade – Use zhoug as a marinade for chicken or lamb before grilling for enhanced taste.
Sauce – Top grilled meats with zhoug to bring out their flavors.

In Salads

Salad Dressing – Mix zhoug with olive oil and vinegar for a vibrant salad dressing.
Tossed Greens – Add a spoonful to your greens for an immediate flavor boost.

How to Perfect Zhoug (Spicy Cilantro Sauce)

Creating the perfect zhoug requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your sauce reaches its full potential.

Bold Ingredients – Use fresh ingredients like cilantro and jalapenos for the best flavor.
Balance Flavors – Adjust the lemon juice according to your taste preference; it brightens the sauce beautifully.
Blend Well – Ensure all ingredients are well-blended to create a smooth texture.
Taste Test – Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving; everyone’s spice tolerance is different.
Storage Tips – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week; this helps the flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Zhoug (Spicy Cilantro Sauce)

Zhoug pairs excellently with many side dishes, adding flair and excitement. Here are some great options to consider when serving this vibrant sauce.

Pita Bread – Warm pita is perfect for dipping into zhoug or spreading it on top.
Hummus – The creamy texture of hummus balances the spice of zhoug wonderfully.
Roasted Vegetables – Drizzle zhoug over roasted veggies like carrots and bell peppers for added flavor.
Rice Pilaf – Serve zhoug alongside rice pilaf as a condiment that enhances each bite.
Tabbouleh Salad – This parsley-fresh salad complements the herbaceous notes in zhoug nicely.
Grilled Corn on the Cob – Brush corn with zhoug after grilling for a spicy twist on this classic side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Zhoug (Spicy Cilantro Sauce) is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your sauce turns out perfectly every time.

Skipping the seasoning – Failing to add salt or spices can lead to bland Zhoug. Always taste as you go and adjust seasonings for a flavorful sauce.
Overprocessing – Blending too long can make the sauce too thin or mushy. Stop when you’ve achieved a thick paste consistency for the best texture.
Ignoring freshness – Using wilted herbs will diminish the vibrant flavor of your Zhoug. Choose fresh cilantro and parsley for an herbaceous kick.
Not balancing acidity – Forgetting lemon juice can make your sauce taste flat. The lemon adds brightness, so don’t skip this step in your recipe.
Storing improperly – Leaving Zhoug uncovered or in the wrong container can spoil its freshness. Use an airtight container for best results.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Fresh Zhoug lasts up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Freezing Zhoug (Spicy Cilantro Sauce)

Freeze in small portions using ice cube trays.
Once frozen, transfer cubes into a zip-top bag for easy storage.
It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Zhoug (Spicy Cilantro Sauce)

Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm Zhoug in a baking dish covered with foil for about 10 minutes.
Microwave – Heat on medium power in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
Stovetop – Gently warm on low heat, stirring regularly until heated, ensuring not to overcook.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Zhoug (Spicy Cilantro Sauce)?

Zhoug is a vibrant Middle Eastern hot sauce made primarily from fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley, blended with jalapenos, garlic, and spices for a spicy kick.

How do I customize my Zhoug?

Feel free to adjust the number of jalapenos according to your spice tolerance. You can also add more herbs or spices like mint or dill for different flavor profiles.

Can I use different types of peppers?

Yes! While jalapenos are traditional, feel free to experiment with other hot peppers based on your heat preference or availability.

How should I serve Zhoug (Spicy Cilantro Sauce)?

Zhoug pairs wonderfully with many dishes like falafel, grilled meats, or even as a zesty addition to scrambled eggs. Get creative!

Is Zhoug suitable for vegan diets?

Absolutely! This sauce is entirely plant-based and adds a delightful flavor boost without any animal products.

Final Thoughts

Zhoug (Spicy Cilantro Sauce) is not just a condiment; it’s a versatile addition that enhances various dishes with its spicy and herbaceous notes. This recipe allows room for customization based on personal taste preferences. Whether you enjoy it with Mediterranean meals or as a bold dip, give it a try and elevate your culinary creations!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card