Zhoug

Zhoug (also known as zhug, skhug and sa'awiq) is a hot green sauce originally from Yemen. It is now a staple of Israeli cuisine, where it is also known as Israeli hot sauce.

History

Zhoug originated in Yemen, where it is traditionally used as a condiment for meat dishes. Yemeni Jews brought the sauce to Israel when they immigrated in the mid-20th century. In Israel, it has been adopted into the local cuisine and is often used as a condiment for falafel, shawarma, and hummus.

Ingredients

The primary ingredients of zhoug are fresh green chili peppers, coriander, garlic, salt, black pepper, cumin, cardamom, and olive oil. Some variations may also include caraway seeds, cloves, and lemon juice. The ingredients are traditionally ground together using a mortar and pestle, but modern recipes often use a food processor.

Variations

There are several variations of zhoug, including red zhoug, which is made with red chili peppers instead of green, and brown zhoug, which includes tomatoes. In Israel, a milder version of the sauce made with parsley is also popular.

Uses

Zhoug is typically used as a condiment for meat dishes, but it can also be used as a marinade, a dip, or a spread. In Israeli cuisine, it is often served with falafel, shawarma, and hummus. It can also be used to spice up salads, sandwiches, and grilled vegetables.

Health Benefits

Zhoug is rich in vitamin C due to its high content of fresh herbs and chili peppers. It also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can contribute to overall health.

See Also

• List of hot sauces
• List of condiments
• Israeli cuisine
• Yemeni cuisine