Zhoug – Middle Eastern Coriander Dip
Spice Level: Medium
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 4
Rating: 3.7 (from 3 votes)
Views: 67,834
Dietary Information: Vegetarian
Description:
Zhoug is a flavorful and aromatic Middle Eastern dip made with fresh coriander, green chilies, and a blend of spices. This vibrant sauce adds an extra kick to any meal, whether it’s used as a condiment for grilled meats, drizzled over roasted vegetables, or served as a tangy dip for pita bread. Known for its aromatic spices and bright, zesty flavor, it’s a perfect balance of heat and freshness. With the convenience of being quick to prepare and lasting up to a week in the fridge, Zhoug is a must-have in any Mediterranean-inspired kitchen.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Garlic (roughly chopped) | 4 cloves |
| Fresh coriander (leaves and stems, unless very hard) | 2 bunches |
| Green chilies | 2-3 |
| Sea salt | 1 tsp |
| Whole green cardamom | 4 pods |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
| Red chili flakes | ½ – 1 tsp |
| Olive oil or rapeseed oil | 150 ml |
| Lemon (juice) | 1 lemon |
Instructions:
-
Toast the Spices:
In a dry pan, toast the cardamom and cumin seeds until they are fragrant. This will release the essential oils and enhance the flavor of the spices. -
Grind the Spices:
Transfer the toasted cardamom and cumin into a spice grinder and blitz them until finely powdered. -
Prepare the Fresh Ingredients:
Add the roughly chopped garlic cloves, fresh coriander leaves (and stems, unless they are very tough), green chilies, sea salt, and red chili flakes to the grinder or blender. -
Blend the Mixture:
Blitz the mixture until it’s finely chopped and the ingredients begin to combine. You may need to scrape down the sides occasionally to ensure an even blend. -
Add Oil and Lemon:
Slowly pour in the olive oil (or rapeseed oil) and lemon juice while continuing to blend until the mixture turns into a smooth paste or sauce. -
Let it Sit:
For the best flavor, allow the Zhoug to rest in the fridge for a few hours (or overnight) before serving. The flavors develop and deepen over time, so patience rewards you with a more complex taste. The dip will keep for 7-8 days in the refrigerator.
Allergen Information:
This recipe contains no common allergens but is made with fresh ingredients such as coriander, garlic, and green chilies, which may cause reactions in sensitive individuals. The oil used in the recipe is typically olive or rapeseed oil, both of which are generally safe for most dietary needs. However, always check labels for cross-contamination if you have specific sensitivities.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-Free
- Dairy-Free
Serving Suggestions:
Zhoug is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:
- As a Dip: Serve with warm pita bread or fresh vegetables as a refreshing appetizer or snack.
- With Grilled Meats: Zhoug pairs wonderfully with grilled lamb, chicken, or beef, providing a spicy kick and a burst of freshness.
- On Roasted Vegetables: Drizzle this flavorful dip over roasted cauliflower, sweet potatoes, or eggplant for an added layer of flavor.
- As a Sandwich Spread: Spread on wraps, sandwiches, or burgers for a Middle Eastern twist.
Tips:
- Adjust the Heat: The number of green chilies and red chili flakes can be adjusted depending on your spice tolerance. For a milder dip, reduce the amount of chilies.
- Let It Rest: While Zhoug is delicious immediately, the flavors improve significantly after resting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. This gives the spices time to blend and develop.
- Freshness: Fresh coriander is key to achieving the vibrant flavor of Zhoug. If the coriander is too tough, you can discard the stems or use only the leaves for a more delicate flavor.
Conclusion:
Zhoug is an incredibly simple yet aromatic dip that brings the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine to your table. With fresh ingredients and a punch of heat, it can elevate even the simplest of dishes. Whether you’re serving it as a side to roasted vegetables, a topping for grilled meats, or a dip for fresh bread, Zhoug’s versatility is unmatched. The best part? It’s quick to make and lasts for up to a week, making it perfect for meal prep or a go-to condiment in your fridge.
