Zhoug Sauce dish

Overhead image of a spoon lifting up a serving of zhoug sauce from a jar.

Let us introduce you to what will surely be your newest obsession: this vibrant Zhoug Sauce recipe! Vibrant, refreshing, and with a kick of spice, this condiment is a breeze to make and the ideal way to infuse flavor into tons of different dishes.Pair it with grilled veggies, meat, hummus, pita bread, and more!

What Is Zhough Sauce, Anyway?

If you’ve never had it, zhoug sauce will knock your socks off! A popular Middle Eastern condiment, it originated in Yemen but is popular throughout the entire Middle East. You’ll find it being called a variety of names including skhug, hilbeh, and s’khug.

No matter what it’s called, it’s made with cilantro, herbs, and spices that are ground into a paste. You’ll always know you’re eating zhoug sauce by its vibrant color and spicy flavor!

Gather fresh ingredients and warm spices for the finest zhoug sauce.

Ingredients for zhoug sauce in the bowl of a food processor. — Add all your ingredients to the bowl of a food processor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Zhoug sauce is a celebration of warm flavors and a generous dose of spice. Achieving that classic flavor is a cinch with just a handful of simple ingredients and fresh produce. Here’s everything you need:

Fresh Herbs – Parsley and cilantro form the base of the sauce creating a vibrant, herbaceous taste.
Lime Juice – Used to help cut through some of the spice so the sauce isn’t overpowering.
Spices – Crushed red pepper, salt, smoked paprika, and cumin create a base of warm, earthy flavors that pair well with everything.
Jalapeños – For the hallmark spice of zhoug sauce! If you want even more heat, swap them out for serrano peppers instead.
Garlic – Make sure it’s fresh.
Olive Oil – This helps combine the ingredients, creating a smooth, spreadable consistency.

Blended zhoug sauce in a food processor. — Pulse your ingredients until a smooth sauce is formed.

How to Make the Finest Zhoug Sauce Recipe

Making this zhoug sauce is a breeze. In fact, it’s so simple we’d never even dream of buying it from the store!

Add all the ingredients to a food processor, and pulse until they’re smooth.
Serve! Seriously, that’s all you have to do.

Serving Suggestions

There are endless ways to use zhoug sauce, but some of our go-to ways to savor it include:

As a Dip or Marinade. Pair it with chicken, lamb, beef, or fish.
With Veggies. Pour it over salads or with grilled or roasted veggies to boost their flavor and add extra nutrients.
As a Spread. Smear it over sandwiches, wraps, or tortillas for a gourmet-worthy meal.
Over Eggs. Don’t knock it ‘til you try it. It’s seriously delish.

Feel free to experiment with your You really can’t go wrong!

A spoon lifting a coop of zhoug sauce from a jar. — Serve zhoug sauce with meat, veggies, pita bread, and more!

Common Questions About Zhoug Sauce

What dishes pair well with Zhoug sauce?

Zhoug adds a spicy kick to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, sandwiches, and even eggs.

Can I adjust the spiciness?

Absolutely! Modify the red pepper flakes or add chili peppers to suit your heat preference.

Is Zhoug sauce vegan?

Yes, it’s typically made with herbs, spices, and oil, making it vegan-friendly.

What’s the origin of Zhoug sauce?

Zhoug hails from Yemen and has become popular in Middle Eastern cuisines.

More Sauces and Dips

Ready to kick your meals up a notch with more exciting flavors? Explore some of our go-to condiments and dips below!

Overhead image of a spoon lifting a scoop of zhoug sauce from a jar.

the Ayyem kitchenServings: 12 servings

Prep: 3 mins
Total: 3 mins

Let us introduce you to your newest obsession with this vibrant, Zhoug Sauce recipe! Bright, refreshing, and spicy, it’s speedy to make and the reliable way to add flavor to all your go-to meals. Email

Ingredients

1 bunch fresh parsley
1 bunch fresh cilantro
Juice of ⅓ lime
1 Tablespoon red crushed red pepper
4 jalapeños seeded
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
3/4 cup olive oil
4 garlic cloves

Instructions

Add the ingredients to the bowl of a food processor. Pulse until smooth.1 bunch fresh parsley, 1 bunch fresh cilantro, Juice of ⅓ lime, 1 Tablespoon red crushed red pepper, 4 jalapeños, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 3/4 cup olive oil, 4 garlic cloves
Serve as a dip, marinade, or spread.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.