Schug, also known as zhug, is a popular spicy condiment in Israeli cuisine. This bright green sauce is made with fresh herbs, hot peppers, and spices, giving it a burst of flavor and heat. It adds a delicious kick to any dish, making it a staple in many Israeli households. In this article, we will explore the history behind schug, its ingredients, and a simple recipe for you to try at home.
Israeli salad is a classic dish that is loved by many. It's a simple yet refreshing combination of diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. This salad is the perfect side dish for any meal, and it pairs perfectly with beer can chicken. The freshness of the salad complements the rich flavors of the chicken, making it a must-try for any beer can chicken recipe.
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Israeli Chicken Sofrito
Main Ingredients: Bone In Skin On Chicken Thighs, Extra Virgin Olive Oil
If you're looking to add a touch of Mediterranean flavor to your beer can chicken, then Israeli chicken sofrito is the way to go. Sofrito is a delicious blend of onions, peppers, and tomatoes that is often used as a base for many dishes in Israel. When combined with chicken and cooked on a beer can, the flavors infuse into the chicken, creating a mouth-watering dish that will leave you wanting more.
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Israeli Shakshuka
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Garlic, Red Onion, Green
Shakshuka is a popular Israeli breakfast dish that has gained popularity worldwide. It's a hearty tomato-based dish with poached eggs, making it a perfect brunch option. But why not take it to the next level and use it as a sauce for your beer can chicken? The rich and spicy flavors of shakshuka add a unique twist to the traditional beer can chicken recipe.
If you're tired of the same old side dishes with your beer can chicken, then why not switch things up with an Israeli couscous salad? This dish is a combination of pearl couscous, fresh herbs, and vegetables, all dressed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. The texture and flavors of this salad complement the chicken perfectly, making it a must for any beer can chicken recipe.
Hummus is a staple in Israeli cuisine, and for a good reason – it's delicious! This creamy chickpea dip is the perfect accompaniment to any meal, and it's no different with beer can chicken. The smooth and nutty flavors of the hummus pair well with the juicy chicken, making it a match made in heaven.
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Schug
Main Ingredients: Jalapeno Peppers, Chopped Cilantro, Chopped Parsley
Schug, also known as zhug, is a spicy herb sauce that originated in Yemen and is now popular in Israeli cuisine. It's made with a blend of cilantro, parsley, and hot peppers, creating a flavorful and spicy condiment that adds a kick to any dish. Use it as a marinade for your beer can chicken, or drizzle it on top for an extra burst of flavor.
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Israeli Style Tuna
Main Ingredients: Salad, Tuna, Lemon
Tuna is a popular fish in Israel, and it's often prepared with Mediterranean flavors. For a twist on the classic beer can chicken, try using tuna instead of chicken. Marinate the tuna with lemon, olive oil, and herbs, then cook it on a beer can for a unique and tasty dish that will impress your guests.
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Israeli Shakshuka with Zhug
Main Ingredients: Pita Bread, Jalapenos, Salt, Garlic Cloves, Cumin
Combine two Israeli favorites – shakshuka and schug – for a delicious and spicy twist on beer can chicken. The shakshuka adds a rich and tangy flavor to the chicken, while the schug adds a fiery kick. This dish is perfect for those who love bold and intense flavors.
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Lemon Israeli Couscous
Main Ingredients: Fresh Parmesan Cheese, Chicken Stock, Olive Oil, Salt
For a simpler side dish, try making lemon Israeli couscous to pair with your beer can chicken. This dish is a combination of pearl couscous, lemon juice, and herbs, creating a light and refreshing accompaniment to the rich flavors of the chicken. It's also a great way to add some variety to your beer can chicken recipes.
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Israeli Parsley Salad
Main Ingredients: Chopped Parsley, Green Onion, Unsweetened Dried
Parsley is a staple herb in Israeli cuisine, and this simple yet flavorful salad is a perfect example of that. This salad is made with chopped parsley, onions, and tomatoes, dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. The freshness of the parsley complements the chicken, making it a great addition to any beer can chicken recipe.
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Schug (Zhug) Sauce
Main Ingredients: Coriander Seeds, Cumin Seeds, Green Chilies, Serrano
If you're a fan of spicy food, then schug (or zhug) sauce is a must-try for your beer can chicken. This hot sauce is made with a blend of cilantro, parsley, and hot peppers, creating a fiery and flavorful addition to your chicken. Use it as a marinade or drizzle it on top for an extra kick.
Pearl couscous, also known as Israeli couscous, is a staple in Israeli cuisine. It's a small, round pasta that is often used in salads and side dishes. For a simple and tasty side dish for your beer can chicken, cook the couscous in chicken broth and add some herbs and vegetables for a flavorful and hearty accompaniment.
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Israeli Couscous with Mushrooms
Main Ingredients: Israeli Couscous, Unsalted Butter, Olive Oil, Shallots
For a more filling side dish, try cooking Israeli couscous with mushrooms. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms add depth to the couscous, making it a perfect pairing for beer can chicken. Add some herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.
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Chopped Israeli Couscous Salad
Main Ingredients: Israeli Couscous, Cucumber, Diced Tomato, Diced Bell
For a twist on the traditional couscous salad, try making a chopped version. This salad is made with diced vegetables, herbs, and Israeli couscous, dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. The chopped texture adds a unique twist to the dish, making it a great addition to your beer can chicken recipe collection.
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Israeli Salad with Feta and Mint
Main Ingredients: Persian Cucumbers, Tomatoes, Red Bell Pepper, Yellow
Israeli salad is a classic side dish, but why not add a little twist by adding feta and mint? The salty and tangy flavors of the feta cheese complement the fresh vegetables, while the mint adds a refreshing touch. This salad is a great way to add some variety to your beer can chicken meals.
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Schug / Zhoug Sauce
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Serrano Chiles, Cilantro Stems, Flat Leaf
Spice up your beer can chicken with some schug (or zhoug) sauce. This hot sauce is made with a blend of herbs and hot peppers, creating a fiery and flavorful addition to your chicken. Use it as a marinade or drizzle it on top for an extra kick.
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Israeli Style Eggplant (twice Cooked)
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Kosher Salt, Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Ground
Eggplant is a popular ingredient in Israeli cuisine, and this twice-cooked recipe is a must-try for your beer can chicken. The eggplant is first roasted, then cooked with herbs and spices, creating a flavorful and tender side dish. Serve it alongside your chicken for a complete and delicious meal.
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Schug – a Middle Eastern Condiment
Main Ingredients: Serrano Peppers, Cilantro, Parsley, Garlic Cloves
Schug (or zhug) is a popular condiment in Israel and other Middle Eastern countries. It's a hot sauce made with a blend of herbs and hot peppers, creating a fiery and flavorful addition to any dish. Use it as a marinade or drizzle it on top of your beer can chicken for an extra kick.
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An Israeli Cauliflower That Basically Everyone Loves
Main Ingredients: Honey, Dijon Mustard, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Kosher
This roasted cauliflower dish is an Israeli favorite that is loved by many. The cauliflower is roasted with spices and herbs, creating a flavorful and tender side dish. It's a great option for those looking to add some vegetables to their beer can chicken meal.
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Schug – Hot Yemenite Salsa
Main Ingredients: Jalapeno Peppers, Fresh Cilantro, Extra Virgin Olive
Schug (or zhug) is a hot sauce that originated in Yemen and is now popular in Israeli cuisine. It's made with a blend of herbs and hot peppers, creating a spicy and flavorful condiment that pairs well with beer can chicken. Use it as a marinade or drizzle it on top for an extra kick.
The Origins of Schug
Originally hailing from Yemen, schug made its way to Israel through the Yemenite Jewish community. It is believed to have been introduced to Israeli cuisine in the 1950s, and since then, it has become a beloved condiment in the country. It is said that the name "schug" comes from the Arabic word "sahawiq," which means spicy. Over the years, schug has evolved to include different variations, with each region and family having their own unique recipe.
The Ingredients
The key ingredients in schug include fresh herbs, hot peppers, and spices. The most commonly used herbs are cilantro and parsley, which give schug its bright green color. Hot peppers such as jalapenos or serranos add the necessary heat to the sauce. Other spices like cumin, cardamom, and garlic are also added to enhance the flavor profile. The combination of these ingredients creates a complex and robust taste that pairs well with a variety of dishes.
Recipe for Israeli Schug
Now that you know a little about schug, let's dive into a simple recipe for you to try at home. You will need:
- 1 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 cup parsley, chopped
- 2-3 jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon cardamom
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt to taste
- Olive oil
1. In a food processor, blend together the cilantro, parsley, jalapenos, and garlic until finely chopped.
2. Add in the cumin, cardamom, lemon juice, and salt. Pulse until well combined.
3. Gradually drizzle in olive oil while pulsing until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency.
4. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
5. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
This schug can be served as a condiment with grilled meats, drizzled over falafel or shakshuka, or used as a marinade for chicken or fish. Its spicy and tangy flavors are sure to elevate any dish.
In conclusion, schug is a versatile and flavorful condiment that has become a staple in Israeli cuisine. Its origins, ingredients, and simple recipe make it a must-try for anyone looking to add some spice to their meals. So why not give this Israeli schug recipe a try and add a touch of Middle Eastern heat to your dishes?
