Introduction:

Lebanese garlic sauce, also known as toum, is a traditional Middle Eastern condiment that pairs well with a variety of dishes. It’s a creamy, flavorful sauce made primarily from garlic, oil, and lemon juice. In this article, we will explore three different methods for making this delectable sauce at home.

1. Traditional Lebanese Garlic Sauce:

Ingredients:

– 1 cup peeled garlic cloves

– 2 cups neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola)

– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

– 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine the garlic and salt until finely minced.

2. Slowly drizzle in the oil while the food processor is running, allowing it to emulsify with the garlic.

3. Gradually add the lemon juice, continuing to mix until the mixture reaches a thick, creamy consistency.

4. Taste and adjust the salt as needed. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

2. Vegan Lebanese Garlic Sauce:

Ingredients:

– 1 cup peeled garlic cloves

– 1 cup aquafaba (liquid from a can of chickpeas)

– 1 cup vegetable oil

– 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

– 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the garlic and salt until finely minced.

2. With the blender running on low, slowly drizzle in the aquafaba and oil in alternating increments.

3. Add lemon juice and continue blending until the sauce reaches a thick, creamy consistency.

4. Taste and adjust salt as needed. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

3. Mayo-Based Lebanese Garlic Sauce:

Ingredients:

– 1 cup mayonnaise

– 6 large garlic cloves, minced

– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

– 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt until well combined.

2. Taste and adjust salt as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water to help thin it out.

3. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Conclusion:

Lebanese garlic sauce is versatile and easy to make at home using any of the methods described above. Try adding this delicious condiment to your next meal, whether it’s spread on sandwiches, drizzled over grilled vegetables, or used as a dipping sauce for bread or falafel. The possibilities are endless!