Halabi Kebab

Description
Yemenite meat loaf. Zhoug is a source of pride among the Yemenite population. Made with the sharpest of chile peppers, it is eaten with classically oriental Jewish meals. More than just a condiment, it is a tradition. Yemenites believe that daily consumption of zhoug wards off disease and strengthens the heart. It can be an addition to salad, and a sauce for various kinds of meat, and poultry dishes.

Ingredients

 * 2½ lbs ground beef
 * 3 tbsp flour
 * 1 tbsp oil
 * 1 tsp salt
 * 1 tsp pepper
 * 1 tbsp zhoug
 * 3 tbsp oil
 * 1 cup finely chopped onions
 * 1 cup sliced mushrooms
 * 1 cup chopped parsley
 * 3 eggs

Zhoug

 * small green chile peppers
 * 1 cup chopped parsley
 * 1 cup chopped fresh coriander
 * 1½ tbsp fresh minced garlic
 * 1 tsp pepper
 * 1 tsp salt
 * 1 tsp ground cumin
 * 2 tbsp olive oil

Directions

 * 1) Combine ground beef with flour, 1 tbsp oil, salt, pepper and zhoug.
 * 2) Form the meat mixture into a 10-inch loaf.
 * 3) Make a well the entire length of the loaf.
 * 4) Heat 3 tbsp of oil in a skillet.
 * 5) Saute together the onions, mushrooms and parsley until the onions are golden.
 * 6) Place the mixture in the well of the loaf.
 * 7) Lightly beat the eggs and pour over the vegetables.
 * 8) Preheat oven to 350°F.
 * 9) Pat the sides of the loaf together to close up the well, and wrap in aluminum foil.
 * 10) Bake for 30 minutes.
 * 11) The loaf may be served either hot or cold.

Zhoug

 * 1) In a blender, puree enough chile peppers to measure 1 cup.
 * 2) Puree parsley and coriander together and blend well with the chile peppers.
 * 3) Add garlic, seasonings and olive oil.
 * 4) Again, blend well.
 * 5) Put the zhoug in a jar and keep it in the refrigerator.
 * 6) It will remain fresh for many months.