Chermoula
A green, intensely herbaceous North African marinade made with fresh cilantro, garlic, cumin, red pepper, and olive oil. It is a traditional accompaniment to fish and seafood.
What Is Chermoula?
Chermoula is a North African marinade made by combining fresh cilantro and parsley with garlic, cumin, red pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil. It has been known for centuries in Moroccan, Tunisian, and Algerian cuisines.
It is dark green, with a fresh, herbaceous, spicy aroma; it can be used as both a marinade and a serving sauce, before and after cooking.
Chermoula Nutrition
One hundred grams of chermoula contains approximately 250 kcal of energy; it provides fat from olive oil and small amounts of vitamins from fresh herbs. Values vary by recipe and are approximate.
How Should Chermoula Be Consumed?
Chermoula is consumed in moderate amounts as part of a balanced diet, as a marinade and serving accompaniment.
This information is general; chermoula is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Chermoula
For homemade chermoula, choose cilantro and parsley that are fresh and vibrant green, and garlic that is firm and fresh. Prepared products should be dark green and smell fresh.
- The color should be dark green, not darkened or faded
- It should have a fresh, herbaceous, spicy aroma, not a sour smell
- The ingredient list should show a high proportion of fresh herbs
How to Store Chermoula
Chermoula stays fresh for a few days in a sealed container in the refrigerator; since it contains fresh herbs, long-term storage is not recommended.
Using Chermoula in the Kitchen
Chermoula is used most often to marinate fish and seafood, with grilled chicken and vegetables, and as a serving sauce over cooked dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is chermoula the same as chimichurri?
No. Both work as fresh-herb marinades, but chermoula is from North Africa and is based on cilantro and cumin, while chimichurri is from Argentina and is based on parsley and thyme.
Can chermoula be made at home?
Yes. Fresh cilantro and parsley, garlic, cumin, red pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil can easily be blended or crushed together in a mortar.
Can you find chermoula in Türkiye?
It is not widely available as a prepared product; it is usually made at home with fresh ingredients and is sometimes available in gourmet markets.