Shatta is a fiery Middle Eastern hot sauce that's packed with flavor. This sauce, made with fresh herbs, walnuts, and jalapeños, adds a spicy kick to any dish. It's versatile and can be used as a condiment, marinade, or dip. Preparing this sauce is straightforward and requires minimal time.
While most ingredients for Shatta are commonly found in your pantry, you might need to look for a couple in the supermarket. Fresh jalapeno peppers are key to this recipe. Their unique flavor and heat make this sauce distinctive. Also, sherry vinegar might not be a regular in your kitchen, but it's worth looking for. It has a sweet, complex flavor that adds depth to the sauce.
Key Ingredients for Shatta: Middle Eastern Hot Sauce
Parsley leaves: These add a fresh, slightly bitter flavor to the sauce.
Cilantro leaves: Cilantro lends a bright, citrusy flavor.
Raw walnuts: They provide a slight crunch and nutty flavor to the sauce.
Garlic: Garlic adds a robust, pungent flavor.
Sea salt: Used for seasoning the sauce.
Ground cumin: Cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor.
Freshly ground black pepper: It gives a slight heat and enhances the other flavors.
Sherry vinegar: This adds tanginess and depth to the sauce.
Fresh jalapeno peppers: Jalapenos are the heat source in this sauce.
Extra-virgin olive oil: It helps blend all the ingredients and adds a smooth richness.
One reader, Aurie Moseley says:
This shatta recipe is a game-changer! The blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and jalapeños creates a spicy, flavorful sauce that's perfect for adding a kick to any dish. It's versatile and easy to make, and the result is absolutely delicious. I highly recommend trying it out!
Techniques Required
How to prepare the shatta sauce: This involves blending the parsley, cilantro, walnuts, garlic, salt, cumin, black pepper, and sherry vinegar in a food processor until finely chopped, then adding the jalapeños and pulsing until finely chopped.
How to incorporate the olive oil: After blending the ingredients, the olive oil is stirred into the sauce by hand until well combined.
How to serve the shatta sauce: Once the sauce is prepared, it can be transferred to a bowl for serving.
How To Make Shatta
This shatta recipe is as fresh as it can get with earthy flavors from walnuts and parsley. Kick it up a notch by adding jalapeno peppers and cumin.
Serves:
Ingredients
- ¼cupfresh parsley leaves
- ¼cupfresh cilantro leaves
- ¼cupraw walnuts
- 4clovesgarlic
- 1 ¼tspfine sea salt
- 1tspground cumin
- 1tspfreshly ground black pepper
- 1tspsherry vinegar
- 8 ozfresh jalapeño peppers
- ⅓cupextra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
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In a food processor, combine everything but the jalapeños and olive oil. Blend until the ingredients are finely chopped, pausing to scrape down the sides as necessary.
-
Add the jalapeños and pulse until the peppers are finely chopped, but not completely obliterated.
-
Stir the olive oil into the sauce by hand, and transfer to a bowl for serving.
Nutrition
- Calories: 1975.37kcal
- Fat: 217.26g
- Saturated Fat: 30.01g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 158.14g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 22.96g
- Carbohydrates: 12.60g
- Fiber: 4.28g
- Sugar: 2.00g
- Protein: 3.76g
- Sodium: 794.73mg
- Calcium: 151.30mg
- Potassium: 604.72mg
- Iron: 7.11mg
- Vitamin A: 323.79µg
- Vitamin C: 121.65mg
Technique Tip for Preparing Shatta
When making shatta, a Middle Eastern hot sauce, it's important to control the heat level to your liking. The heat in jalapenos is concentrated in the seeds and the white membranes. For a milder sauce, remove these parts before adding the jalapenos to the food processor. If you prefer a hotter sauce, leave them in. Remember, it's easier to add heat than it is to take it away, so start with less and add more if needed.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Shatta: Middle Eastern Hot Sauce Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all the ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Use kitchen tools: Utilize a food processor to quickly chop the herbs and walnuts for the sauce.
Organize your workspace: Arrange all the ingredients and tools in an orderly manner to avoid wasting time searching for items.
Multi-task: While the sauce is blending, prepare other components of your meal to maximize efficiency.
Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and equipment as you cook to minimize post-cooking cleanup time.
Substitute Ingredients For Shatta (Middle Eastern Hot Sauce) Recipe
fresh parsley leaves - Substitute with fresh mint leaves: Fresh mint leaves can provide a similar refreshing and herbaceous flavor to the dish, adding a unique twist to the shatta sauce.
fresh cilantro leaves - Substitute with fresh basil leaves: Fresh basil leaves can offer a slightly different but complementary herbal note to the sauce, enhancing its overall flavor profile.
raw walnuts - Substitute with raw almonds: Raw almonds can provide a similar nutty richness and texture to the sauce, while adding a slightly different flavor profile.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can offer a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic, while still providing aromatic depth to the shatta sauce.
fine sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt can be used as a substitute for fine sea salt, providing a similar level of salinity to the dish.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander can offer a citrusy, slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients in the shatta sauce.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: Crushed red pepper flakes can add a similar level of heat and spiciness to the sauce, enhancing its overall flavor.
sherry vinegar - Substitute with red wine vinegar: Red wine vinegar can provide a slightly different but complementary acidity to the shatta sauce, adding a nuanced tanginess to the dish.
fresh jalapeno peppers - Substitute with serrano peppers: Serrano peppers can be used as a substitute for jalapeno peppers, offering a similar level of heat and flavor to the shatta sauce.
extra-virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for extra-virgin olive oil, providing a mild, buttery flavor and a high smoke point for cooking.
Best Way to Present Middle Eastern Hot Sauce
- Elevate the plating: Arrange the shatta in a small, elegant dish, ensuring it is visually appealing and inviting.
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a few fresh parsley and cilantro leaves on top to add a pop of color and a touch of freshness.
- Drizzle with olive oil: Add a final drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil to enhance the flavors and add a glossy finish to the dish.
- Serve with artisanal crackers: Accompany the shatta with delicate, artisanal crackers for a delightful textural contrast.
- Incorporate a touch of heat: Garnish with a few thinly sliced jalapeño rings to hint at the spiciness of the sauce and add a visual element.
- Use a minimalist approach: Keep the presentation simple and refined, allowing the vibrant green color of the shatta to take center stage.
Essential Tools for Making Shatta
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, blending, pureeing, and mixing ingredients. It is perfect for creating the fine texture needed for the shatta hot sauce.
- Knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting and preparing the fresh herbs, garlic, and jalapeño peppers.
- Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe and stable surface for chopping and preparing the ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the right balance of flavors in the shatta hot sauce.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is used to combine the ingredients and stir in the olive oil to create the final hot sauce.
How To Store and Freeze Shatta
- Store the shatta sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, transfer the hot sauce to a freezer-safe container or ice cube tray and freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to use the frozen shatta, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
- If the sauce separates after thawing, give it a good stir to recombine the ingredients before serving.
- To preserve the vibrant color and fresh flavor of the shatta sauce, consider blanching the jalapeño peppers before blending them into the sauce. To do this, boil the peppers for 1-2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- If you prefer a thinner consistency, gradually add more olive oil until the desired texture is achieved.
- For a spicier shatta, include some of the jalapeño seeds in the blend. For a milder version, remove all the seeds before processing.
How To Reheat Leftovers
To reheat leftover shatta, start by transferring the desired amount into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent the sauce from drying out. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the sauce is heated through and reaches your desired temperature. This method is quick and easy, making it perfect for when you're in a rush.
For a more traditional approach, reheat your leftover shatta in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir the sauce frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and to ensure even heating. This method allows you to control the temperature more precisely, ensuring that the flavors of the parsley, cilantro, and jalapeños remain vibrant and fresh.
If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider reheating your shatta on the grill. Transfer the sauce to a cast-iron skillet or a heat-safe dish, and place it on the grill over indirect heat. Cover the grill and allow the sauce to heat through, stirring occasionally. This method infuses the sauce with a subtle smoky flavor that complements the spicy jalapeños and aromatic garlic.
For a unique twist, try reheating your leftover shatta in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and transfer the sauce to an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the sauce from drying out, and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is warmed through. This method is perfect for reheating larger quantities of sauce and allows you to keep the sauce warm for an extended period, making it ideal for parties or gatherings.
Random Fact about Shatta
Shatta is a popular Middle Eastern hot sauce that is commonly used as a condiment to add heat and flavor to a variety of dishes. It is known for its vibrant green color and intense spiciness, making it a versatile addition to many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines.
Is Making Shatta at Home Cost-Effective?
This shatta recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are simple and affordable, with items like jalapeños, garlic, and walnuts being budget-friendly. The recipe yields a flavorful and versatile hot sauce that can be used in various dishes, making it a worthwhile investment. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and taste. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $8-$10, making it a budget-friendly addition to any meal.
Is Shatta Healthy or Unhealthy?
This shatta recipe is relatively healthy, offering several nutritional benefits:
- Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
- Walnuts are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber
- Garlic has anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties
- Jalapeño peppers contain vitamin C and capsaicin, which may boost metabolism
However, the recipe is quite high in sodium due to the added salt, which could be a concern for those watching their salt intake. The olive oil, while a healthy fat, also contributes to the overall calorie count.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of salt used, or replace it with a salt substitute like potassium chloride
- Use a mix of jalapeño and milder peppers, such as bell peppers, to reduce the overall heat and increase the vegetable content
- Add more fresh herbs, like basil or mint, to boost the nutritional value and flavor profile
- Experiment with using less olive oil or replacing some of it with water or lemon juice to reduce the calorie density
- Include additional spices, such as turmeric or ginger, which have anti-inflammatory properties and may provide additional health benefits
By making these adjustments, you can enhance the nutritional value of the shatta while still maintaining its delicious taste and versatility as a condiment.
Editor's Opinion on This Middle Eastern Hot Sauce
This shatta recipe is a delightful blend of fresh herbs, nuts, and spicy jalapeños, creating a vibrant and flavorful hot sauce. The combination of parsley, cilantro, and walnuts adds a unique depth of flavor, while the garlic, cumin, and black pepper provide a warm and aromatic essence. The sherry vinegar adds a tangy kick, and the extra-virgin olive oil brings a smooth and rich texture to the sauce. Overall, this shatta is a perfect balance of heat and flavor, making it a versatile condiment to elevate any dish.
Enhance Your Shatta (Middle Eastern Hot Sauce) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Alternative Middle Eastern Hot Sauce Recipes
Suggested Main Courses and Desserts to Pair with Shatta
Why trust this Shatta (Middle Eastern Hot Sauce) Recipe:
This recipe is a trusted choice for your Middle Eastern hot sauce needs. The combination of fresh parsley, cilantro, and raw walnuts creates a rich and flavorful base, while the addition of garlic and cumin adds depth and complexity. The use of sherry vinegar provides a tangy kick, and the inclusion of fresh jalapeno peppers ensures a fiery heat. With the final touch of extra-virgin olive oil, this recipe promises a well-balanced and authentic hot sauce that you can trust to elevate your dishes.
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