Spicy Zhoug (Hot Sauce)

By patticakes

Falafel stands throughout the Middle East often have some version of this hot chile sauce, called zhoug, for giving a spicy kick to pita sandwiches. Ana Sortun adds pumpkin seeds to her take on this fiery sauce to thicken it and deepen the flavor.

Ingredients

• Two 3-ounce Hungarian wax peppers, seeded and coarsely chopped
• 1 cup cilantro leaves and stems
• 1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley leaves
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2 teaspoons sherry vinegar
• 1/4 cup toasted shelled pumpkin seeds
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Preparation

Step 1

Directions

In a blender, combine all of the ingredients and blend until smooth. Season the zhoug with salt and black pepper and serve.

Make Ahead

The zhoug can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Serve With

Grilled chicken or fish.