Jerneh
A smoky, slow-cooked mash of roasted peppers, tomatoes, and garlic, finished with Idlib olive oil — the essential condiment of the Idlib table.
Cook this hands-free
All 214 Sofra recipes are free in the app. This one includes step-by-step English voice narration, hands-free Cooking Mode, and the original oud music by Charbel Rouhana.
Get Sofra on Google Play →Ingredients
- 6 large Red and green peppers (mixed)
- 4 large Ripe tomatoes
- 6 cloves Garlic cloves
- 4 tbsp Idlib extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Dried red chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Char the peppers directly over an open flame or under a broiler until blackened all over.
- Place in a covered bowl for 15 minutes to steam, then peel and remove seeds.
- Score the tomatoes and roast at 200°C (400°F) for 20 minutes until softened and slightly charred.
- Peel the roasted tomatoes.
- In a large mortar, pound the garlic with salt until a paste forms.
- Add the roasted peppers and pound until roughly mashed — not smooth, but textured.
- Add the roasted tomatoes and continue pounding.
- Stir in the olive oil and chili flakes if using.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. The jerneh should be smoky, garlicky, and slightly chunky.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a final drizzle of olive oil.
- Serve at room temperature as a condiment alongside grilled meats, bread, or as part of a mezze spread.
Hear every step read aloud
Step-by-step voice narration guides you hands-free. Faten's Idlib recipes carry her own Syrian-Arabic narration. Charbel Rouhana's original oud plays during Cooking Mode.
Get Sofra on Google Play →Frequently Asked Questions
What is Jerneh?
A smoky, slow-cooked mash of roasted peppers, tomatoes, and garlic, finished with Idlib olive oil — the essential condiment of the Idlib table.
Where is Jerneh from?
Jerneh comes from Idlib Syrian. Sofra documents this recipe as part of its 214-recipe Lebanese and Syrian heritage collection, including 49 dishes from Idlib province.
Is Jerneh vegetarian or vegan?
As written, Jerneh uses only plant-based ingredients, so it is suitable for both vegetarian and vegan diets. Always double-check the full ingredient list against your own dietary needs.
What can I use instead of dried red chili flakes (optional) in Jerneh?
The dried red chili flakes (optional) called for here is part of the traditional recipe and gives Jerneh its authentic character, so keep it if you can. If you must substitute, choose the closest equivalent you have on hand and adjust to taste — the dish will shift slightly from the traditional version but still work. The Sofra app lists the full ingredient set and sourcing notes.
What do I serve with Jerneh?
In a Syrian condiments spread, Jerneh is served as an accompaniment — spooned alongside grilled meats, vegetables, breads, or other mezze dishes.
Can I make Jerneh ahead, and how do I store leftovers?
Yes — leftovers keep well stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat gently (or bring to room temperature for cold dishes) and taste to adjust seasoning before serving. Dishes with fresh herbs or dressing are freshest the day they are made.