Lebanese Garlic Sauce

Lebanese Garlic Sauce is a must-try for anyone who enjoys bold flavors and creamy textures. This versatile sauce, also known as Toum, enhances the taste of grilled meats and sandwiches while doubling as a delicious dip. With its egg-free and dairy-free composition, it’s a perfect addition to vegan meals. The simple ingredients come together to create an unforgettable garlic flavor that’s sure to impress at any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, this garlic sauce comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy cooks.
• Bold Flavor: The intense garlic taste adds depth to your dishes, elevating even the simplest meals.
• Versatile Use: Use it as a dip, spread, or condiment for meats, vegetables, or sandwiches—it’s great for any occasion!
• Long-lasting: Store it in the fridge for days; its flavors develop even more over time.
• Vegan-Friendly: Enjoy this creamy sauce without eggs or dairy, making it suitable for all diets.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential items you’ll need to make Lebanese Garlic Sauce.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Spatula
• Bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This is crucial for achieving that smooth and creamy texture in your sauce.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors in your Lebanese Garlic Sauce.

Ingredients

Lebanese Garlic Sauce (Toum) is made with just a handful of ingredients that combine beautifully for a rich flavor profile.

Main Ingredients

• ¾ cup peeled garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 cups vegetable oil
• 4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 4 tablespoons ice water

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Lebanese Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Paste

In a food processor, combine the garlic cloves and kosher salt. Process until you achieve a smooth paste. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure all garlic is blended well.

Step 2: Emulsify the Oil

With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the vegetable oil. Start with just a few drops at first to allow for proper emulsification.

Step 3: Add Lemon Juice

Once about half of the oil is incorporated into the mixture, alternate adding freshly squeezed lemon juice and the remaining oil gradually while keeping the processor running. This should take around 20 minutes to ensure a creamy consistency.

Step 4: Blend in Ice Water

Blend in the ice water. This step helps achieve that smooth texture you desire in your Lebanese Garlic Sauce.

Step 5: Transfer and Garnish

Transfer your sauce to a bowl. Optionally drizzle with olive oil and garnish with finely chopped fresh parsley.

Step 6: Refrigerate Overnight

For the best flavor development, refrigerate your Lebanese Garlic Sauce overnight before serving it with your favorite dishes.

How to Serve Lebanese Garlic Sauce

Lebanese Garlic Sauce is a versatile condiment that enhances a variety of dishes. Its bold flavor can elevate everything from grilled meats to fresh salads. Here are some delicious ways to serve this creamy, garlic-infused delight.

With Grilled Meats

• Chicken Shawarma: Drizzle the sauce over grilled chicken shawarma for an extra kick.
• Lamb Chops: Pair with succulent lamb chops for a rich and flavorful experience.
• Beef Kebabs: Use as a dipping sauce for juicy beef kebabs straight off the grill.

In Wraps and Sandwiches

• Falafel Wraps: Spread Lebanese Garlic Sauce in your falafel wraps for added creaminess.
• Gyro Sandwiches: Enhance your gyro sandwich with a generous dollop of this zesty sauce.

As a Dip

• Veggie Platter: Serve with fresh veggies like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers for a healthy snack.
• Pita Bread: Enjoy it as a dip with warm pita bread or chips for a delightful appetizer.

How to Perfect Lebanese Garlic Sauce

Creating the perfect Lebanese Garlic Sauce takes practice and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your sauce comes out creamy and flavorful every time.

• Bold garlic flavor: Use fresh garlic cloves for the best taste; avoid pre-peeled or jarred garlic.
• Slow emulsification: Drizzle the oil slowly while blending to achieve that perfect creamy consistency.
• Chill before serving: Refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
• Adjust to taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of lemon juice according to your preference; more juice adds brightness!
• Use ice water wisely: Adding ice water helps achieve that fluffy texture, so don’t skip this step.

Best Side Dishes for Lebanese Garlic Sauce

Lebanese Garlic Sauce pairs wonderfully with many side dishes, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Here are some side dishes that complement its bold flavors beautifully.

1. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing parsley salad that balances the richness of the sauce.
2. Hummus: Creamy chickpea dip that pairs well with the garlicky notes of Toum.
3. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas): These savory rolls are delightful when dipped in Lebanese Garlic Sauce.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender adds depth and flavor alongside the sauce.
5. Fattoush Salad: A tangy salad featuring crispy bread, perfect for scooping up garlic sauce.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice infused with spices works well as a base for drizzling on this creamy condiment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Lebanese Garlic Sauce can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can lead to a less-than-perfect result. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using too much garlic: While garlic is the star of this sauce, using excessive amounts can overpower the flavor. Stick to the recipe’s recommended amount for balanced taste.
• Skipping the emulsification process: Failing to drizzle in the oil slowly can result in a broken sauce. Ensure you add the oil gradually and allow it to emulsify properly for a creamy texture.
• Not refrigerating overnight: If you serve the sauce immediately, it may lack depth of flavor. Allow it to chill in the refrigerator overnight to enhance its taste.
• Neglecting the ice water: Ice water is crucial for achieving the right consistency. Don’t skip this step, as it helps create the fluffy texture characteristic of Lebanese Garlic Sauce.
• Using non-fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is essential for optimal flavor. Bottled lemon juice may contain preservatives that alter the taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Make sure to keep it away from strong-smelling foods to prevent flavor contamination.

Freezing Lebanese Garlic Sauce

• Use an airtight freezer-safe container or ice cube tray for easy portioning.
• It can be frozen for up to three months; however, the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating Lebanese Garlic Sauce

• Oven: Place in an oven-safe dish and heat at low temperature (around 200°F) until warmed through. Avoid overheating as it can change consistency.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (15-20 seconds) on medium power, stirring in between. This prevents overheating and keeps its fluffy texture intact.
• Stovetop: Gently warm over low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated through. Be careful not to cook it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Lebanese Garlic Sauce that might help you make this delicious dip even better!

What is Lebanese Garlic Sauce?

Lebanese Garlic Sauce, also known as Toum, is a creamy and flavorful garlic condiment made without eggs or dairy. It’s often used with grilled meats or as a dip.

Can I make Lebanese Garlic Sauce without oil?

While oil is essential for creating the emulsion and texture of this sauce, you could experiment with alternatives like aquafaba, although results may vary.

How do I use Lebanese Garlic Sauce?

You can enjoy Lebanese Garlic Sauce with grilled meats, sandwiches, veggies, or as a dip for pita chips. Its versatility makes it a great addition to many dishes!

Can I customize the flavor of my Lebanese Garlic Sauce?

Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of garlic or lemon juice based on your preference or add herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra flavor.

How long does homemade Lebanese Garlic Sauce last?

When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it lasts up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

Final Thoughts

Lebanese Garlic Sauce is an incredibly versatile condiment that adds bold flavors to various dishes. Its creamy texture and zesty notes make it perfect for dipping or drizzling on grilled meats and vegetables. Feel free to customize it according to your taste preferences—experiment with different herbs or spice levels! Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Lebanese Garlic Sauce (Toum)

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Discover the bold and creamy delight of Lebanese Garlic Sauce, also known as Toum. This versatile condiment is a culinary gem that enhances everything from grilled meats to fresh salads. Made with simple, vegan-friendly ingredients, it boasts an unforgettable garlic flavor that elevates your meals without the need for eggs or dairy. Perfect as a dip, spread, or marinade, Lebanese Garlic Sauce is easy to whip up and can be stored in the fridge to develop its flavors further. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking to spice up your weeknight dinners, this sauce is a must-try for anyone who loves rich, savory tastes.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• ¾ cup peeled garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 cups vegetable oil
• 4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 4 tablespoons ice water
• Optional garnish: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a food processor, blend garlic cloves and salt until smooth.
2. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the vegetable oil in small increments for proper emulsification.
3. After half the oil is incorporated, alternate adding lemon juice and remaining oil gradually until creamy.
4. Blend in ice water for desired texture.
5. Transfer to a bowl, garnish with parsley if desired, and refrigerate overnight for best flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: N/A
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: Lebanese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 75mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg