Dinner

Zhoug (Spicy Cilantro Sauce) Recipe

Name: Zhoug (Spicy Cilantro Sauce) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 6 jalapeno peppers, trimmed and sliced (or hot green chiles); 2 garlic cloves, peeled; 1 packed cup fresh cilantro leaves; 1/2 packed cup fresh parsley; 1 lemon, juiced; Kosher salt, to taste; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/2 teaspoon ground green cardamom; 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

ByCharlotte Montgomery January 27, 2026January 27, 2026

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Introduction

Zhoug is a vibrant and spicy cilantro sauce that adds a flavorful kick to many dishes. Originating from the Middle East, this zesty condiment is easy to make and perfect for boosting grilled meats, sandwiches, or dips.

A clear glass jar filled with a green sauce that has a slightly chunky texture, showing finely chopped herbs and garlic pieces mixed with olive oil, giving a shiny and oily surface on top. A silver metal spoon is placed inside the jar. The jar sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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)

Instructions

Step 1: Chop the jalapeno peppers and garlic cloves roughly. Place them in the bowl of a food processor with a pinch of kosher salt. Pulse briefly until the ingredients are coarsely chopped.
Step 2: Add the fresh cilantro, parsley, ground cumin, coriander, and cardamom to the processor. Blend until a thick, cohesive paste forms.
Step 3: Transfer the cilantro paste into a bowl. Stir in the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice until well combined. Serve immediately or refrigerate.

Tips & Variations

For a milder sauce, remove the seeds from the jalapenos before processing or substitute with milder green peppers.
Use fresh herbs for the brightest flavor; parsley and cilantro can be adjusted based on your preference.
Add a pinch of sugar if you prefer a slightly balanced heat.

Storage

Store Zhoug in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors intensify as it sits. Reheat by bringing to room temperature or using it cold as a sauce or dip.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a clear glass jar filled with fresh green herb sauce, showing a thick, coarse texture with finely chopped herbs suspended in golden-yellow oil. The sauce is layered evenly inside the jar, with small bits of herbs visible throughout. A silver spoon is partially immersed in the sauce, resting against the jar's edge. The jar is placed on a white marbled surface with a soft, bright background, highlighting the rich green color and glossy oil sheen of the sauce. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Zhoug without a food processor?

Yes, you can finely chop all the ingredients by hand using a sharp knife and then mix in the olive oil and lemon juice. The texture will be more rustic but still delicious.

How spicy is Zhoug?

The spiciness depends on the type and amount of peppers used. Jalapenos offer moderate heat, but you can adjust by removing seeds or choosing milder or hotter peppers based on your preference.