Yemenite Green Hot Sauce (Zhug)

Step 1

Remove cardamom seeds from pods; discard pods. Toast cardamom seeds, peppercorns, coriander seeds, and cumin seeds in a dry small skillet over medium-high heat, swirling often, until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Transfer to a spice mill or mortar and pestle and let cool; finely grind.

Step 2

Place chiles and garlic on a cutting board and sprinkle with a large pinch of salt and smash into a paste with the side of a chef’s knife. (Or use that mortar and pestle here too.)

Step 3

Transfer chile paste to a small bowl and work in spice mixture, parsley, cilantro, and oil; season with salt. Let sit 10 minutes for flavors to marry. Stir in lemon juice.

Step 4

Do Ahead: Sauce (without lemon juice) can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill. Let come to room temperature before stirring in lemon juice.