Yemeni Zhoug(Zhug)

Photo courtesy of PomegranatesandZaatar


Located on the southern tip of the Arabian Penninsula, the cuisine of Yemen is known for it's spicy, fiery flavors.One of those spicy foods that is essential to any Yemeni table is the spicy relish-like condiment known as zhoug(Zhug).Zhoug is used in a variety of ways from being used as a dip for bread or added to stews and soups for a fiery bite.Below is the recipe for Yemeni zhoug(Zhug).

Yeild:4oz.
Ingredients:
4 dried red chilies, soaked in water for 1 hour
1 whole head of garlic,roughly chopped
1 tsp ground cardamom
1 tsp. caraway seeds, ground
1 tsp. black pepper
a handful of cilantro leaves, roughly chopped

1.Drain the chilies and cut off the stems.Place in a mortar and add the garlic and puree using the pestle or you can use a food processor.
2.Add the cardamom, caraway, and black pepper and add to the chilli/garlic puree.Pound or process until it has a consistancy of a course puree.
3.Put the mixture in a small saucepan and add 1/4c water and simmer for 10-15 minutes.Remove from heat and leave to cool.
4.Spoon the relish into a clean glass jar, seal it tightly and refrigerate until ready to use.Refrigerate after each use.