01/21/2026
Zhoug (Cilantro Sauce) Recipe
1–3 whole jalapenos, sliced (start with one, if unsure)
2 fat garlic cloves
1 bunch cilantro, small stems ok (about 1 cup packed tightly)
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamon (or whole seeds)
1 teaspoon cumin - ground or whole seeds
1 teaspoon caraway seeds – optional but good!
1/2 teaspoon peppercorns – optional
1/2 teaspoon Himalayan sea salt, more to taste
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil, more to desired consistency
2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes, more to taste (optional)
1. Toast any whole seeds in a dry skillet over med-low heat until fragrant. Note: If using cardamom pods – crush the pods and remove the seeds, just toast the seeds. Let cool slightly.
2. Place the toasted spices and all the remaining ingredients (except the oil) in a food processor and pulse until it’s uniformly chopped. Add oil and lemon juice and pulse into a coarse paste. For a looser version, add a bit more oil.
3. Taste for salt and heat, adding more if necessary. Add chili flakes if you like.
4. Store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to one week.
*Reference your nutrition guide for serving sizes*