One of the most joyful things I did when the pandemic started was to create a garden. With a backyard that gets limited sunshine I still managed to have a lush and beautiful container garden. I was thrilled to see how well my organic cayenne plant was doing. So once I could harvest the red chillies I wanted to make something special and decided to make Zhoug.
Originating in Yemen, Zhoug is also popular in Syria, Israel and other Middle Eastern countries. Although I had never tasted Zhoug I knew I would love it because I very much enjoy fresh green sauces
Here I am sharing the recipe that I made and I loved the result.
Recipe
1 cup packed cilantro leaves
1/2 cup packed parsley leaves (you can omit this and just use cilantro)
2 cloves garlic, peeled
2 red cayenne peppers (adjust according to prefered choice of heat or use less hot jalapeño peppers)
1/2 lemon, squeezed
1/2 tsp cardamom powder
1/2 tsp coriander powder
1/2 tsp cumin powder
1/2 tsp black pepper, ground
1 tsp himalayan salt
1/2 cup olive oil
Put all the ingredients except olive oil into the food processor and blend until chunky. Add the olive oil and blend again. You can process to the texture you prefer, chunky or smooth.
You can use Zhoug on just about any savoury dish you desire. It is delicious!
Healthy benefits of Cilantro and Parsley
Medical Medium mentions cilantro as a go-to herb for heavy metal detoxification. It is an amazing liver detoxifier and one of the best adrenal support herbs. It balances blood sugar and staves off weight gain, brain fog and memory issues. Cilantro is antiviral, antibacterial and antiparastic. and is able to remove mercury and aluminum from where it is stored in the adipose (fat) tissues. h
Parsley alkalizes all body systems. It is amazing for anything mouth related. It is a highly remineralizing food. It is an excellent herb for you when you feel depleted and exhausted. Parsley is a very centred and centering herb. When a person gets enough of this herb, you’ll notice a more balanced state of mind and being.
