Traditional Toum

Discover the magic of Mediterranean cuisine with this *Traditional Toum* recipe, a creamy, garlicky sauce that’s as versatile as it is bold. Made with just six simple ingredients—fresh garlic, lemon juice, oil, salt, cold water, and a touch of ice—this authentic Lebanese spread comes together using an emulsification technique that yields a light and fluffy texture. Perfect as a zesty dip, a sandwich spread, or a flavor-packed accompaniment to grilled meats and roasted veggies, this vegan and gluten-free condiment is a true kitchen staple. With its irresistible punch of fresh garlic flavor and bright citrus notes, toum will elevate your dishes and keep your taste buds coming back for more.

Nutriscore Rating: 47/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:0 mins

Total Time:15 mins

Servings: 20

Ingredients

• 8 large cloves Fresh garlic cloves
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 3 tablespoons Lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons Cold water
• 2 cups Vegetable oil (such as canola or sunflower oil)
• 2 Ice cubes

Directions

Step 1

Peel the garlic cloves and slice them in half lengthwise. Remove any green sprouts from the center to prevent bitterness.

Step 2

In a food processor, combine the garlic and salt. Process on high speed until finely minced, pausing to scrape down the sides as needed.

Step 3

Add one tablespoon of lemon juice to the garlic and blend until smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl.

Step 4

Slowly, with the processor running, begin to add the oil in a very thin, steady stream. This process should take about 10 minutes to ensure a proper emulsion. If the oil is added too quickly, the toum may break and become more like a vinaigrette instead of a creamy sauce.

Step 5

Between additions of oil, occasionally scrape the sides of the processor bowl to ensure all garlic is incorporated. If you notice the mixture thickening too much, add some cold water one tablespoon at a time.

Step 6

Once all the oil has been incorporated and the mixture is thick and fluffy, slowly add the remaining lemon juice while the processor is running to brighten the flavor.

Step 7

For a looser consistency, continue processing while slowly adding ice cubes one at a time until the desired texture is reached.

Step 8

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or lemon juice if desired.

Step 9

Transfer the toum to a clean container. It can be used immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 month, where it will firm up as it chills.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	692.8 grams (692.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4280

Total Fat 473.50g	607%
Saturated Fat 33.20g	166%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2383mg	104%
Total Carbohydrate 24.40g	9%
Dietary Fiber 2.30g	8%
Total Sugars 1.10g
Protein 4.40g	9%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 111mg	9%
Iron 3mg	14%
Potassium 302mg	6%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 97.4%

Protein: 0.4%

Carbs: 2.2%