Makes 1 cup
Prep time: 15 minutes; Total time: 15 minutes

Zhoug is a spicy Middle Eastern condiment made from fresh cilantro, green chiles, olive oil, and spices. I use jalapeños in this recipe, but don’t be afraid to experiment with other chiles, such as serranos. This condiment adds a wonderful layer of depth to the Sweet Corn Soup and balances it with a spicy finish. Zhoug can be used on eggs, pasta, bread, and as a dipping sauce for crudités.

Zhoug

Prep Time15 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Servings: 1 cup

Ingredients

  • 1 bunch fresh cilantro, with stems
  • 1 –3 jalapeño peppers, roughly chopped (1 for mild, 2 for medium, 3 for hot)
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Juice of 1 lemon, about 2 tablespoons
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 cup olive oil

Instructions

  • Add all ingredients except olive oil to a food processor and process until evenly chopped. Scrape down the sides, add olive oil, and pulse a few times until everything is combined. Add more olive oil if you like a thinner texture.
  • Store in airtight container with a thin layer of olive oil to protect it from exposure to the air. Refrigerate for up to 1 week.