Toum Garlic Sauce Recipe

Toum is a creamy Middle Eastern garlic sauce made with fresh garlic, lemon juice, and neutral oil. Perfect for dipping, spreading on sandwiches, or serving with grilled meats and vegetables.

Ingredients

• 1 head garlic
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 ¾ cups grape seed oil or sunflower oil (neutral tasting)
• 4–6 Tbsp ice water

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Garlic

Peel the garlic cloves, then cut them in half and optionally remove the green germ to reduce bitterness.

2. Mince Garlic

Place garlic and kosher salt in a food processor. Pulse several times until finely minced, scraping down the sides as needed.

3. Add Lemon Juice

Add the lemon juice to the minced garlic and pulse a few times until combined, scraping down the sides again if necessary.

4. Emulsify the Sauce

With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in about ¼ cup of oil. Add 1 Tbsp of ice water. Stop and scrape the sides.

5. Continue Adding Oil and Water

Continue drizzling the remaining oil slowly, adding 1 Tbsp ice water after every ¼ cup of oil. Scrape the sides as needed to ensure even mixing.

6. Finish the Sauce

Continue this process until all oil is incorporated. The sauce should thicken and become smooth, fluffy, and creamy. This should take about 10 minutes.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Middle Eastern garlic sauce with bold, fresh flavor.
• Light, fluffy texture perfect for dipping, spreading, or drizzling.
• Quick ingredients but impressive results.
• Complements grilled meats, vegetables, and sandwiches beautifully.

Tips

• Use a neutral oil like grape seed or sunflower for the best flavor.
• Add ice water gradually to help the sauce emulsify and prevent separation.
• Ensure garlic is finely minced for a smooth texture.
• Keep all ingredients at room temperature to avoid breaking the emulsion.

Variations and Substitutions

• Oil: Olive oil can be used but may produce a slightly bitter flavor.
• Lemon: Adjust lemon juice for a more tangy or mild taste.
• Spice: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a subtle kick.
• Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan, but can be used as a base for flavored spreads with herbs.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Why is my sauce separating?
Drizzle the oil slowly and ensure garlic is finely minced. Adding ice water gradually helps maintain the emulsion.

Can I use this sauce as a dip?
Absolutely. Toum works perfectly as a dip for vegetables, bread, or fries.

Serving Suggestions

• Spread on sandwiches or wraps for extra flavor.
• Serve alongside grilled chicken, kebabs, or seafood.
• Use as a dipping sauce for vegetables, fries, or pita bread.
• Drizzle over roasted vegetables or roasted potatoes for a garlic punch.