18+ Middle East Garlic Spread Recipe Delight In These Amazing Recipes!
Published on: Mar 7, 2024
One of the most beloved and versatile ingredients in Middle Eastern cuisine is garlic. Whether it's used to add depth of flavor to savory dishes or as a main ingredient in dips and spreads, garlic is a staple in this region's cuisine. One such popular dip is the garlic spread, also known as toum in Arabic. This creamy and tangy spread is not only delicious, but it also has numerous health benefits. In this article, we will delve into the history and ingredients of this delectable Middle Eastern garlic spread recipe and learn how to make it at home.
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Salt, Vegetable Oil, Lemon Juice
If you're a fan of Middle Eastern flavors, then this Lebanese garlic sauce, also known as Toum, is a must-try for you. Made with just a handful of simple ingredients, this creamy and flavorful sauce is perfect for dipping, spreading, or even as a marinade for meats. It's also a great way to add a burst of flavor to your favorite dishes.
2of 20
Lebanese Garlic Sauce (Toum)
Main Ingredients: Kosher Salt, Garlic Cloves, Grapeseed Oil, Lemon Juice
In Lebanon, Toum is a staple condiment that is served with almost every meal. It's made with garlic, oil, lemon juice, and salt, and has a texture similar to mayonnaise. This sauce is so versatile that it can be used as a dip for vegetables, a spread for sandwiches, or even as a dressing for salads. It's also a great accompaniment for grilled meats, making it the perfect addition to your next barbecue.
One of the things that make this Lebanese garlic sauce stand out is its intense garlic flavor. It's not for the faint of heart, but if you're a garlic lover, then this sauce is definitely for you. The traditional recipe calls for raw garlic, but you can also use roasted garlic for a milder taste. Either way, you'll end up with a rich and creamy sauce that will elevate any dish it's paired with.
4of 20
Toum – Lebanese Garlic Sauce
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Neutral Oil, Kosher Salt, Fresh Lemon Juice
The word "Toum" literally means garlic in Arabic, so it's no surprise that this sauce is all about the garlic. This sauce is also known as "Lebanese aioli" because of its creamy texture and garlic-forward flavor. The key to making a good Toum is to get the right balance of ingredients, so each flavor shines through without overpowering the others.
5of 20
Creamy Lebanese Garlic Sauce
Main Ingredients: Neutral Oil, Garlic, Lemon Juice, Salt
This Lebanese garlic sauce is all about the creaminess. The mixture of oil and garlic creates an emulsion that gives this sauce its thick and creamy texture. It's important to slowly add the oil while blending to ensure the sauce doesn't break and stays creamy. The result is a smooth and luxurious sauce that will add a burst of flavor to any dish.
6of 20
Thick-Style Lebanese Garlic Sauce
Main Ingredients: Garlic, Sea Salt, Fresh Lemon Juice, Vegetable Oil
If you prefer a thicker sauce, then this Toum recipe is for you. Traditionally, Toum is made with just garlic, oil, lemon juice, and salt. But some recipes call for the addition of potato or chickpeas to make it thicker and creamier. This version is perfect for spreading on sandwiches or using as a dip for pita bread and veggies.
7of 20
Lebanese Garlic Sauce (aka Toum or Toom)
Main Ingredients: Avocado Oil, Lemon Juice, Garlic, Salt
Lebanese garlic sauce goes by many names, including Toum and Toom. But no matter what you call it, one thing is for sure – it's delicious. This sauce is a staple in Lebanese cuisine and has been passed down through generations. It's a true testament to the fact that sometimes the simplest ingredients can create the most incredible flavors.
8of 20
Toum - Lebanese Garlic Sauce
Main Ingredients: Garlic Cloves, Vegetable Oil, Fresh Lemon Juice, Salt
This Lebanese garlic sauce is all about the garlic, but it also has a tangy kick from the lemon juice. The combination of these two ingredients creates a vibrant and addictive flavor that will keep you coming back for more. This sauce is also great for adding a pop of flavor to your favorite dishes, whether it's a sandwich, salad, or grilled meat.
9of 20
Toum ثوم (Lebanese Garlic Sauce)
Main Ingredients: Garlic Cloves, Coarse Sea Salt, Egg White, Lemon Juice
In Arabic, the word "Toum" is written as "ثوم", and it's a popular condiment in many Middle Eastern countries, not just Lebanon. It's often served alongside other mezzes, or appetizers, and is a must-have for any feast. The beauty of this sauce is its simplicity, and once you try it, you'll understand why it's a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine.
10of 20
Traditional Lebanese Garlic Sauce – Toum
Main Ingredients: Fresh Garlic, Vegetable Oil, Fresh Lemon, Salt
This traditional Lebanese garlic sauce is a classic recipe that has been passed down through generations. It's made with just a few simple ingredients but packs a powerful punch of flavor. This sauce is perfect for adding a touch of the Middle East to your meals, whether it's a simple weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
11of 20
Lebanese Garlic Sauce (Toum Sauce)
Main Ingredients: Garlic Cloves, Vegetable Oil, Lemon Juice, Salt, Garlic
If you're looking for a versatile and flavorful sauce, then look no further than this Lebanese garlic sauce. It's great for dipping, spreading, or using as a marinade for meats. The addition of garlic not only gives this sauce its intense flavor, but it also has many health benefits, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
12of 20
The Best Lebanese Garlic Sauce (Toum)
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Garlic Cloves, Lemon, Salt
There are many variations of Toum out there, but this recipe is hands down the best Lebanese garlic sauce you'll ever try. The secret to achieving the perfect balance of flavors is to slowly add the oil while blending to create a creamy emulsion. This sauce is so good that you'll want to put it on everything!
13of 20
Garlic Sauce (Mediterranean/Lebanese Dip)
Main Ingredients: Greek Natural Yogurt, Garlic Cloves, Mayonnaise, Olive
This garlic sauce is a staple in Mediterranean and Lebanese cuisine, and for a good reason. It's incredibly flavorful and pairs well with a variety of dishes. The combination of garlic, lemon juice, and oil creates a unique and addictive flavor that will have your taste buds dancing.
14of 20
Homemade Meat Sauce
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Ground Italian Sausage, Onion, Garlic
While this Lebanese garlic sauce is great for adding flavor to meats, it's also a great accompaniment for meat sauces. The tangy and garlicky flavors cut through the richness of the meat, creating a perfect balance of flavors. This sauce is also a great way to elevate your favorite pasta dishes.
15of 20
Best Alfredo Sauce
Main Ingredients: Butter, Garlic, All Purpose Flour, Half And Half Cream
Forget store-bought Alfredo sauce because this homemade version is so much better. The addition of Lebanese garlic sauce adds a delicious twist to this classic Italian sauce. It gives the sauce a unique flavor that will have you going back for seconds.
16of 20
Homemade Spaghetti Sauce
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, White Onion, Garlic, Chicken Broth, Crushed
This homemade spaghetti sauce is full of flavor, thanks to the addition of Lebanese garlic sauce. The creamy and garlicky sauce pairs perfectly with the tomatoes and herbs, creating a rich and delicious sauce that will take your spaghetti to the next level.
17of 20
Homemade Salsa
Main Ingredients: Jalapenos, Onion, Cilantro, Fresh Tomatoes, Salt, Garlic
Salsa is a great way to add some freshness and flavor to your meals, and this homemade version is no exception. The addition of Lebanese garlic sauce adds a unique depth of flavor to this traditional Mexican dip. It's perfect for dipping chips or topping your favorite dishes.
18of 20
Homemade Alfredo Sauce
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Garlic, Heavy Cream, Grated Parmesan
This homemade Alfredo sauce is a game-changer, thanks to the addition of Lebanese garlic sauce. It adds a burst of flavor and creaminess to the sauce, making it the perfect accompaniment for your favorite pasta dishes. It's also great for dipping bread or veggies.
19of 20
Traditional Chimichurri Sauce
Main Ingredients: Parsely, Garlic, Oregano, Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
Chimichurri sauce is a popular condiment in Argentina and Uruguay, and this traditional recipe is a must-try. The addition of Lebanese garlic sauce gives it a unique and delicious twist, making it a great accompaniment for grilled meats or as a marinade for veggies.
20of 20
Tzatziki Sauce
Main Ingredients: Greek Yogurt, Cucumber, Fresh Lemon Juice, Dill
Tzatziki sauce is a refreshing and flavorful dip that is popular in Greek cuisine. It's made with yogurt, cucumber, and herbs, and the addition of Lebanese garlic sauce adds a burst of flavor that takes it to a whole new level. It's perfect for dipping pita bread or veggies, or as a sauce for gyros.
The History of Garlic Spread
The Origin of Toum
The origins of toum can be traced back to Lebanon and Syria, where it is commonly served with grilled meats, sandwiches, and as a dipping sauce for shawarma and falafel. However, it has now become a popular condiment throughout the Middle East and is enjoyed in countries like Egypt, Jordan, and Israel as well. The word toum literally translates to "garlic" in Arabic, highlighting the star ingredient of this delicious spread.
The Health Benefits of Garlic
Aside from being a delicious addition to meals, garlic also offers numerous health benefits. It is known to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral properties, making it a powerful ingredient in boosting the immune system. Additionally, garlic has been linked to reducing the risk of heart disease, lowering cholesterol levels, and even preventing certain types of cancer.
The Ingredients of Toum
Garlic
The star ingredient of this recipe is, of course, garlic. To make toum, you will need at least a dozen cloves of garlic. While this may seem like a lot, keep in mind that the garlic flavor will mellow out once it's blended with the other ingredients.
Lemon Juice
The tangy and zesty flavor of lemon juice is essential in balancing out the strong garlic taste. It also adds a refreshing note to the spread, making it perfect for summer gatherings and BBQs.
Olive Oil
For a creamy and smooth consistency, olive oil is added to the garlic spread. It also helps in preserving the spread and giving it a longer shelf life.
Salt
No recipe is complete without a pinch of salt. It not only enhances the flavors of the other ingredients but also helps in breaking down the garlic and creating a smooth texture.
Making the Garlic Spread
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Peel and crush the garlic cloves and juice the lemons. Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
In a food processor or blender, add the garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Blend until the garlic is finely minced.
Step 3: Slowly Add Olive Oil
With the blender still running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the mixture thickens and emulsifies.
Step 4: Adjust Seasonings
Taste the spread and adjust the seasonings according to your preference. You can add more lemon juice for a tangier flavor or more salt for a savory kick.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Transfer the garlic spread to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to develop and the spread to thicken. Serve with your favorite dishes and enjoy!
In conclusion, the Middle Eastern garlic spread recipe is a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal. Whether you're a fan of garlic or simply looking for a new dip to try, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So why not give it a try and impress your friends and family with your homemade toum?
![Best Homemade Alfredo Sauce Recipe [Video] - S&SM](https://sweetandsavorymeals.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Alfredo-Sauce-Recipe-1-680x1020.jpg)
