Lebanese Garlic Sauce

If you love garlic, this Lebanese Garlic Sauce, or Toum, is about to become your new obsession. Silky, fluffy, and bursting with bold garlic flavor, this vegan, egg-free sauce elevates everything from grilled meats and kebabs to sandwiches, fries, and roasted vegetables. Despite its rich taste, it’s made with just a handful of simple ingredients and a food processor, making it surprisingly easy to create at home. Perfect for adding a Middle Eastern twist to your meals, this authentic toum is creamy, long-lasting, and endlessly versatile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Vegan, dairy-free, and egg-free—perfect for all diets
• Bold, garlicky flavor that complements meats, sandwiches, and dips
• Smooth, fluffy, and emulsified like a professional restaurant sauce
• Long-lasting: keeps in the fridge for up to a month
• Easy to make with minimal ingredients

Ingredients

• ¾ cup peeled garlic cloves – the star ingredient for robust flavor
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – enhances the garlic and balances the sauce
• 2 cups vegetable oil – creates the creamy, emulsified texture
• 4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice – adds brightness and acidity
• 4 tablespoons ice water – helps smooth out the sauce and maintain fluffiness

How to Make Lebanese Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Make the Garlic Paste

In a food processor, combine garlic cloves and kosher salt. Process until a smooth paste forms, scraping down the sides as needed. This ensures even blending and a uniform garlic base.

Step 2: Emulsify the Oil

With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the vegetable oil, starting with just a few drops at a time. Properly emulsifying the oil is key to a creamy, fluffy texture. Once half the oil is incorporated, alternate between adding the lemon juice and the remaining oil gradually, continuing to process. This should take about 20 minutes and is crucial for achieving the perfect consistency.

Step 3: Smooth It Out

Blend in the ice water to lighten the texture and create a silky, smooth sauce. Transfer to a bowl, optionally drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, refrigerate overnight. Use as a dip, sandwich spread, or drizzle over grilled meats, shawarma, roasted veggies, or fries.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh, firm garlic cloves for the best flavor.
• Add oil very slowly at the start to ensure proper emulsification and prevent separation.
• For a milder garlic flavor, soak cloves in ice water for 10–15 minutes before blending.
• If the sauce separates, simply blend again with a few drops of water or oil.
• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one month or freeze in small portions for up to 3 months.

Equipment Needed

• Food processor – essential for emulsifying the sauce
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula for scraping down the sides
• Airtight container for storage

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Garlic Sauce: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes during blending.
• Herbed Toum: Blend in fresh parsley or cilantro for a green, herby twist.
• Milder Version: Reduce the garlic or soak cloves in ice water before processing.
• Garlic Mayo Fusion: Mix 1–2 tablespoons of toum with vegan mayo for a creamy, spreadable dip.

Serving Suggestions

Use this Lebanese Garlic Sauce as a dip for falafel, roasted vegetables, or fries. Spread it on sandwiches, shawarma, or wraps, or drizzle over grilled chicken or lamb. Its bold flavor also pairs beautifully with roasted potatoes and Mediterranean-style bowls.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, make it up to a week in advance and refrigerate. Flavors deepen overnight.

What if the sauce separates?
Re-blend with a few drops of water or oil to bring it back together.

Can I freeze Lebanese Garlic Sauce?
Yes, freeze in small portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before using.

Is this sauce very spicy?
No, it’s garlicky but not spicy. You can add chili or cayenne for heat.

Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?
Yes, but it may give a slightly stronger, more bitter taste. A light or neutral oil is recommended for the classic flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Lebanese Garlic Sauce is a game-changer for anyone who loves bold, creamy garlic flavor. Its fluffy texture and rich taste make it perfect for sandwiches, grilled meats, dips, and more. Simple, authentic, and endlessly versatile, it’s a must-have condiment in any kitchen. Make a batch, experiment with your favorite dishes, and let this toum elevate your meals with authentic Middle Eastern flair.

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