Hummus with Green Schug Sauce: A Middle Eastern Delight with a Palestinian Twist

Hummus is a classic Middle Eastern dip that’s creamy, smooth, and oh-so-satisfying. But today, we’re taking it up a notch with the addition of green schug sauce, a bright, spicy herb sauce that brings a new level of flavor. This duo is a match made in heaven—creamy hummus with a spicy, herby kick!

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the history behind schug sauce, especially its deep connection to Palestinian cuisine.

A Brief History of Schug Sauce

Schug, particularly the green variety made with fresh herbs and hot peppers, is a staple in Palestinian kitchens. Its ingredients—garlic, fresh herbs, chili, and olive oil—are classic components in Palestinian cooking, making schug a natural complement to many of their dishes. Whether used as a dip, a topping, or a marinade, green schug adds a fiery, herbal burst to meals like hummus, falafel, and grilled meats.

Schug’s popularity in Palestinian cuisine speaks to its versatility, and it has become a beloved accompaniment for adding spice and depth to everyday dishes.

Now, let’s get into this modern pairing of hummus with green schug, inspired by these timeless flavors.

Ingredients:

Green Schug Sauce:

4 cloves garlic
1/2 cup chopped parsley
1/2 jalapeño, finely chopped
2 tbsp lemon juice (to taste)
Salt to taste
1 tbsp olive oil

Hummus:

1 can chickpeas (15 oz)
1/4 cup olive oil
1 clove garlic
1/2 tsp green chili paste
2 tbsp tahini
1 tbsp reserved brine water (from the chickpeas)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 tsp salt (to taste)
1 cube of ice
Paprika for garnish

Instructions:

Green Schug Sauce:

Prepare the Ingredients: Grate the garlic cloves, finely mince the parsley, and chop the jalapeño.
Mix: In a bowl, combine the garlic, parsley, jalapeño, and lemon juice. Season with salt to taste, drizzle with olive oil, and mix well. Set the schug sauce aside while you prepare the hummus.

Hummus:

Reserve Brine and Chickpeas: Drain the chickpeas, reserving 2 tablespoons of the brine and 1 tablespoon of chickpeas for garnish.
Blend: In a blender or food processor, add the chickpeas, garlic clove, green chili paste, lemon juice, tahini, olive oil, reserved brine, salt, and an ice cube.
Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high until the hummus is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or lemon juice, if needed.

Assemble and Serve:

Plate the Hummus: Scoop the hummus onto a plate and swirl it, creating a well in the middle.
Add Garnish: Place the reserved chickpeas in the center, drizzle the green schug sauce over the hummus, and finish with a dash of paprika around the edges for color.
Final Touch: Drizzle a bit more olive oil over the top for a glossy finish.

Enjoy!

Serve with warm pita bread or crunchy vegetables for a delicious, healthy snack or appetizer.

By combining hummus with the bold, Palestinian-inspired green schug sauce, you’re bringing together two iconic flavors that have been enjoyed for centuries. This recipe is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a tribute to the rich culinary traditions of Palestine.