Zhoug Sauce — MUNCH

Munch or Dump rates Zhoug Sauce by Trader Joe's MUNCH — score 100/90.

This is a legit Yemeni-style herb sauce: cilantro, jalapeno, garlic, and warm spices bound in oil. Eight ingredients, every one recognizable, with no preservatives, no natural flavor, and no gums. The only compromise is canola instead of a nicer oil, and that is minor.

Why this verdict

• Eight whole-food ingredients, cilantro-forward as a real zhoug should be
• No preservatives, added flavor, colors, or stabilizers of any kind
• Canola oil is the only refined component and it is just the carrier
• Modest sodium and no added sugar
• Reads like a recipe someone could make at home

Ingredients (8)

• Cilantro (safe) — The herb base and lead ingredient.
• CANOLA OIL (moderate) — Refined seed oil in small amount.
• jalapeno peppers (safe) — Whole pepper for heat.
• CHILE FLAKES (safe) — Additional dried chili heat.
• GARLIC (safe) — Whole aromatic.
• Cardamom (safe) — Warm spice typical of Yemeni zhoug.
• Sea Salt (moderate) — Small amount for flavor contrast.
• Cumin Seeds (safe) — Whole spice for earthiness.