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[]
- Combine ground beef with flour, 1 tbsp oil, salt, pepper and zhoug.
- Form the meat mixture into a 10-inch loaf.
- Make a well the entire length of the loaf.
- Heat 3 tbsp of oil in a skillet.
- Saute together the onions, mushrooms and parsley until the onions are golden.
- Place the mixture in the well of the loaf.
- Lightly beat the eggs and pour over the vegetables.
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Pat the sides of the loaf together to close up the well, and wrap in aluminum foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- The loaf may be served either hot or cold.
Zhoug[]
- In a blender, puree enough chile peppers to measure 1 cup.
- Puree parsley and coriander together and blend well with the chile peppers.
- Add garlic, seasonings and olive oil.
- Again, blend well.
- Put the zhoug in a jar and keep it in the refrigerator.
- It will remain fresh for many months.