Have you ever tasted a dish that transported you to another world with its bold and complex flavors? Chermoula will take you on that culinary journey. This North African marinade and condiment is a staple in Moroccan and Algerian cuisine, known for its vibrant colors and irresistible aroma.
Not only is it flavor packed, it comes together with just a few pulses of the food processor. So, grab your apron and let's explore the wonders of Chermoula together.
It seems most regions have some version of a green sauce, a combination of fresh herbs mixed with oil or vinegar. Pesto, Chimichurri, even Green Goddess Dressing. Each is delicious in it's own right.
Chermoula combines cilantro and parsley (sometimes mint) with preserved lemons and aromatic spices for a spicy citrus herbal fusion that gives a kick to any dish you pair it with.
How to use Chermoula
Chermoula can be used in a variety of ways, some traditional and some not so traditional:
- marinate lamb, beef, pork, chicken before cooking
- brush on fish, seafood, or vegetables while cooking
- add as a finishing sauce on meat, fish or vegetables after cooking
- add to stews or tagines
- mix into pasta, rice, couscous, etc.
- mix with sour cream or yogurt for a dip
Ingredients for Chermoula
The ingredients for Chermoula are pretty basic. Mix and match herbs and adjust the spices to suit your tastes.
- fresh herbs: parsley, cilantro, mint
- preserved lemon (see note)
- garlic cloves
- cumin, coriander, paprika, red pepper, salt and pepper
- lemon juice
- extra-virgin olive oil
Preserved lemon can be a bit tricky to find in regular grocery stores. Walmart, Target and World Market may have it. You can also order online.
Making your own preserved lemons is easy, but it takes a few days of soaking to be ready. You can use fresh lemon zest with a little lemon juice and extra salt if you need a substitute.
More African Recipes from #OurFamilyTable
Looking to explore more recipes from Africa? Make a meal with these tasty ideas:
African Recipes for Africa Day
- Ethiopian Beef Tibs from A Kitchen Hoor's Adventures
- Lesothan Chakalaka with Papa from Magical Ingredients
- Rooibos Iced Tea from Art of Natural Living
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Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup coarsely chopped parsley
- ยฝ cup coarsely chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon coarsely chopped mint
- ยผ preserved lemon (pulp discarded and rind coarsely chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ยผ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- ยฝ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place all ingredients, except olive oil, salt, and pepper, in a blender or food processor.
- Pulse a few times to chop up the ingredients, then process until the ingredients begin to form a paste.
- While the blender or processor is running drizzle in the olive oil.
- Blend until smooth.
- Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Sound fabulous? Share it!
Until next time, happy eating!
~Audrey
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