Herbed Yogurt Zhoug Sauce (Print View)

Bright herbs and creamy yogurt blend with zhoug for a fresh sauce perfect to serve over charred vegetables.

# Components:

→ Zhoug Base

01 - 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves, loosely packed
02 - 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, loosely packed
03 - 2 cloves garlic
04 - 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely diced
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
08 - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
09 - Juice of 1/2 lemon
10 - 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
11 - 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

→ Yogurt Blend

12 - 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat recommended)
13 - 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped
14 - Salt, to taste
15 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Method:

01 - Combine cilantro, parsley, garlic, jalapeño, cumin, cardamom, coriander, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, salt, and olive oil in a food processor. Process until a coarse paste forms. Add a small splash of water if necessary to achieve desired consistency.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt and chopped fresh mint until well combined.
03 - Gradually incorporate 3 to 4 tablespoons of the prepared zhoug paste into the yogurt mixture, stirring until fully integrated. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
04 - Serve the Herbed Yogurt Zhoug Sauce immediately over grilled vegetables or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 10 minutes with minimal effort
  • Combines creamy, cool yogurt with vibrant fresh herbs for a balanced sauce
  • Versatile enough to complement any grilled vegetable
  • Adds a Middle Eastern flavor profile to everyday meals
02 -
  • This sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
  • The flavor actually improves after sitting for a few hours
  • Can be made ahead for easy entertaining
  • Leftover zhoug paste freezes beautifully for future use
  • The jalapeño seeds contain most of the heat, removing them creates a milder sauce
03 -
  • Control the heat level by tasting your jalapeño before adding it all, as their spiciness can vary dramatically
  • For the brightest flavor, add a final squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving
  • Make extra zhoug paste to use as a marinade for chicken or fish
  • Let the sauce come to room temperature before serving for the fullest flavor expression
  • When selecting herbs, look for vibrant, perky bunches with no yellowing or wilting
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