Lebanese Garlic Sauce: Toum

Step 1

Add the garlic cloves and salt to the bowl of a large food processor. Process for about 10 seconds. Stop, scrape down the sides and run for another 10 seconds or so until all the garlic cloves are nicely minced.

Step 2

Turn the food processor back on. Through feed tube, start adding 1/2 cup of oil VERY slowly in a thin stream. It's crucial to add everything very slowly so that the ingredients emulsify into the right texture. If you go too fast, the mixture can break and the oil & garlic wont properly combine.

Step 3

After adding the first half cup of oil, slowly add 2 teaspoons of lemon juice. If you feel you need to, you can stop the food processor and scrape down the sides to make sure everything is getting combined. Repeat, alternating remaining oil in 1/2 cup increments and lemon juice in 2 teaspoon increments until all ingredients have been incorporated.

Step 4

The end product should be thick and creamy looking like mayonnaise or softened butter. Transfer mixture to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. Eat with pita bread, spread on sandwiches, on meat, use for roasting vegetables, the possibilities are endless!