Fresh herb chermoula

Fresh herb chermoula is a vibrant North African marinade made with parsley, coriander, spices, and a kick from chili peppers. This tangy and aromatic sauce enhances the flavor of fish and various dishes.

09 Feb 2026
Cook time 5 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried coriander
1 tsp paprika
1/2 cup fresh parsley
1/2 cup coriander leaves
2 red hot chili peppers
2 garlic cloves
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
Fresh herb chermoula

Chermoula is a versatile North African marinade traditionally used with fish, but it can add a burst of savory flavor to a variety of dishes. This recipe features fresh herbs, aromatic spices, and a touch of heat from red hot chili peppers, making it a perfect accompaniment or marinade that packs a punch.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Parsley and Coriander: Roughly chop the fresh parsley and coriander leaves.
- Chili Peppers: Remove the seeds from the chili peppers for a milder flavor, and roughly chop them.
- Garlic: Mince the garlic cloves.
2. Toast the Spices (Optional):
- For enhanced flavor, you can lightly toast the ground cumin, dried coriander, and paprika in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. This step is optional but recommended.
3. Blend the Ingredients:
- Add the chopped parsley, coriander leaves, chili peppers, and minced garlic to a food processor or blender.
- Add the ground cumin, dried coriander, and paprika to the food processor.
4. Add the Liquids:
- Pour in the olive oil and lemon juice.
5. Blend Until Smooth:
- Blend all the ingredients until you achieve a smooth, well-combined mixture.
- You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl a few times to ensure everything is evenly processed.
6. Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the chermoula and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, lemon juice, or spices according to your preference.
7. Serve:
- Transfer the chermoula to a serving bowl or jar.
- It can be used immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

With your fresh herb chermoula ready, you can now marinate your favorite proteins, drizzle it over roasted vegetables, or even use it as a zesty dip. This vibrant and flavorful sauce will elevate any dish, giving it a delightful North African twist.

Fresh herb chermoula FAQ:

How long can I store Fresh Herb Chermoula in the refrigerator?

Fresh Herb Chermoula can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to preserve its flavor and freshness.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh parsley and coriander leaves?

While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Generally, use one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh, but the flavor will be different.

What type of pan should I use for toasting spices?

A dry skillet or frying pan works best for toasting spices. Use medium heat and stir frequently to avoid burning the spices.

How do I know when the chermoula is blended to the right consistency?

The chermoula should be smooth and well-combined. If you see chunks remaining or if the mixture is too thick, continue blending and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

What can I substitute for olive oil in this recipe?

You can substitute olive oil with other oils like avocado oil or grapeseed oil, but keep in mind that the flavor will slightly change depending on the oil used.

Tips:

- Use fresh herbs: For the best flavor, ensure you use fresh parsley and coriander leaves. The fresh herbs provide a distinct, vibrant taste that dried herbs cannot match.

- Adjust spiciness: If you prefer a milder chermoula, you can reduce the number of red hot chili peppers or remove their seeds.

- Consistency: If you find the chermoula too thick, you can add a bit more olive oil or lemon juice to reach your desired consistency.

- Storage: Chermoula can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious over time.

- Blending: For a smoother consistency, use a food processor or blender to combine all the ingredients until you achieve a fine paste.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 24kcal
Protein 1.33g
Carbohydrates 4.56g
Fiber 1.29g
Sugar 1.46g
Fat 7g

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