The first time I tasted Skhug at Cava Restaurant, it was love at first bite. The vibrant green color caught my eye, and I was hooked! I knew I had to recreate this at home, especially since I love making different sauces like Zhong Sauce and various condiments.
Today, I’m excited to share with you my Secret version of the Cava Skhug Recipe, which has become a staple in my kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to put it on everything!
What Exactly is Skhug?
Skhug, also known as zhug or schug, is a traditional Middle Eastern hot sauce. It’s a blend of fresh chilies, garlic, and spices, typically cumin, coriander and and a mix of spices. The result is a flavorful condiment that packs a punch. It can be found in green or red versions, depending on the type of peppers used.
What Does Cava Skhug Taste Like?
Cava’s Skhug sauce is their take on the traditional Middle Eastern condiment. It is typically characterized by:
- Spicy: Jalapenos are the primary source of heat in Skhug. Depending on how many seeds you include, it can range from moderately spicy to quite hot.
- Herbaceous: The abundance of cilantro gives Skhug a fresh, herbaceous flavor. Cilantro provides a bright, green taste that is distinctive and vibrant.
- Garlicky: With five cloves of garlic, Skhug will have a pronounced garlic flavor. Garlic adds depth and pungency to the sauce.
- Aromatic: Cumin and coriander add a warm, earthy aroma to the sauce, complementing the fresh ingredients.
- Savory: Olive oil and salt enhance the savory notes of the sauce, balancing out the spiciness.
Ingredients List
- 2 Jalapenos (from Aldi), chopped with seeds removed
- 1 bunch Cilantro, including stems
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1/2 tsp Cumin
- 1/2 tsp Coriander
- 1/4 tsp Pepper
- 5 cloves Garlic, peeled
- 1/4 cup Olive Oil (or as needed)
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Blender or food processor
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
How To Make Cava Skhug Recipe
Step 1 | Prepare Jalapenos and Cilantro:
Chop the jalapenos and remove all the seeds. Use the entire bunch of cilantro, including the stems, for maximum flavor.
Step 2 | Blend Ingredients:
Add the chopped jalapenos and cilantro to the blender (I use immersion blender). Pour in the water. Add salt, cumin, coriander, and pepper. Peel the garlic cloves and add them to the blender.
Step 3 | Blend the Mixture:
Blend all the ingredients until smooth. While blending, slowly stream in the olive oil until the mixture reaches your desired consistency.
Step 4 | Taste, Adjust and Serve :
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the jalapenos aren’t spicy enough, you can add more or include some of the seeds for extra heat. Serve the spicy cilantro sauce with your favorite dishes.
Recipe Tips
- Adjusting Heat: If you prefer more heat, you can leave some of the jalapeno seeds in or add more jalapenos initially. Taste as you go to ensure it reaches your desired spiciness level.
- Consistency Matters: Stream in the olive oil slowly while blending to control the sauce’s thickness. If it’s too thick, add a bit more water.
- Freshness is Key: Use fresh cilantro and jalapenos for the best flavor. Pre-packaged herbs and peppers can sometimes lack the vibrant taste this sauce needs.
Delicious Ways to Enjoy Cava Skhug
Cava Skhug pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:
- Grilled Meats: Drizzle over grilled chicken, beef, or lamb for a spicy kick.
- Vegetables: Use as a dipping sauce for fresh or roasted veggies.
- Sandwiches: Spread on sandwiches or wraps for extra flavor.
- Eggs: Add a spoonful to scrambled eggs or an omelette for a spicy twist.
- Rice and Grain Bowls: Mix into rice or quinoa bowls for added depth and heat.
- Dips: Mix into hummus or yogurt for a flavorful dip.
Leftover and Storage Tips
- Leftover Skhug: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should keep for up to one week.
- Reviving Skhug: If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, simply stir in a little water or olive oil to bring it back to the desired consistency.
- Freezing Skhug: For longer storage, freeze the sauce in small portions. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Other Peppers?
Yes, you can substitute jalapenos with other hot peppers like serrano or habanero, depending on your heat preference.
Is there a substitute for cilantro?
If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can try using parsley or a mix of parsley and mint. The flavor will be different, but still delicious.
Can I make this Cava Skhug recipe less spicy?
Absolutely! Use fewer jalapenos or substitute with milder peppers like Anaheim or bell peppers.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Good news! This Cava Skhug recipe is already vegan-friendly.
Is Skhug Gluten-Free?
Yes, this Skhug recipe is naturally gluten-free.
How long does this sauce last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the sauce will last for up to 1 week. Frozen sauce will last for up to 3 months.
Final Word
Making this Cava Skhug Recipe at home is a game-changer. It’s a simple, flavorful, and versatile sauce that you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again. Whether you’re adding it to your favorite dishes or experimenting with new recipes, Skhug brings a burst of vibrant, spicy goodness that’s sure to impress.
So go ahead, give it a try, and let your taste buds experience the magic of Cava Skhug.
