
Unleashing the flavour of garlic sauce
If you’ve ever savoured Lebanese grilled chicken or delicious shawarma, chances are you’ve been treated to the wonders of garlic sauce, known as toum. This creamy, intense condiment masquerades as an ordinary sauce but holds an extraordinary ability to elevate any dish into a culinary delight. With its bold presence, toum transforms the mundane into the magnificent.
Crafting your own toum at home
Making toum may seem daunting, especially if you're not a culinary whiz, but trust me; it’s remarkably straightforward. The traditional recipe marries raw garlic, neutral oil, lemon juice, and salt into a fluffy, white emulsion. This garlicky masterpiece achieves its delightful texture either with or without egg white, providing a vegan-friendly option that still bursts with flavour.
Five key ingredients for success
The beauty of toum lies in its simplicity. The key players in this aromatic ensemble include:
- Garlic: Fresh, peeled cloves are best. Watch out for any green cores that create bitterness.
- Lemon juice: This adds a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Oil: A neutral oil such as sunflower or canola helps achieve that lovely creamy texture.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing the flavour.
- Egg white: Optional, but it makes achieving the desired consistency much easier, particularly for beginners.
Perfect pairings
Toum thrives alongside grilled meats — think shish tawook, lamb kebabs, or even grilled vegetables for our veggie lovers. Ladle it over warm pita bread, or tuck it into wraps for a blast of garlicky goodness. It’s a staple that adds depth and character to any meal.
Why toum deserves a spot in your kitchen
The unapologetic boldness of toum invites everyone to redefine their idea of flavour. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening meal, toum can spark joy. It’s not merely a condiment; it's an invitation to explore and celebrate the vibrant culinary traditions of Lebanon.
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