Recipe Index » Lebanese Recipes » Authentic Lebanese Garlic Sauce {Lebanese Toum}

Authentic Lebanese Garlic Sauce {Lebanese Toum}

Liz DellaCroce Avatar

LIZ DELLA CROCE

Updated:


With just 4 ingredients that are naturally vegan and gluten-free, this mayo-free Toum is thick, creamy, and packed with flavor. Serve with grilled meats or warm pita. 

Jump

prep time10 minutes

While it does require a little knowledge and know-how, my Lebanese garlic sauce recipe uses just four simple ingredients. Garlic cloves, kosher salt, canola oil, and lemon juice are all you need to prepare this thick and creamy spread that goes well with Shish Tawook Chicken, Chicken Shawarma, or Kafta Kebabs.

Grab your food processor and you’re only 15 minutes away from enjoying this addictive sauce. If you’re a visual person like me, I encourage you to watch this step-by-step video. It explains the entire process from start to finish.

What is Toum?

Toum means garlic in Arabic and is a well-known spread on sandwiches It was made by grinding the garlic into a paste (by using a mortar and pestle) and using olive oil and lemon to turn it into a fluffy garlic sauce. Due to the fact there are no milk or eggs that makeup Toum it’s considered to be 100% vegan.

What is Toum Made Up Of?

  • Garlic: You need fresh garlic and cannot substitute out with jarred or pre-minced garlic. Fresh garlic is key.
  • Lemon Juice: Again, fresh is best. You don’t need anything fancy, just cut a lemon in half and squeeze!
  • Salt: Simple yet essential ingredient to this sauce.
  • Oil: In my experience, Canola Oil has worked best.

How does Toum become creamy?

That cooking process is called emulsification (what is emulsification?) .

What foods go well with garlic sauce?

Depends on who you ask. My husband would say grab a tablespoon full and spread it onto some homemade pita bread but it’s good with anything. Use it on vegetables, pasta, pita sandwiches, Beef Shawarma, or simply dip your Chicken Tawook in it. Feel free to get creative! The recipe is just four simple ingredients, but with a little love, it turns into a magical, intoxicating, and addictive sauce.

Adjusting the spice levels for taste:

If you’re looking to tone down the spice level, you can certainly use less garlic. Additionally, the type of garlic you use does make a difference. If you’re using elephant garlic, it will make the sauce a little milder. If you’re looking for a spicier sauce, then use fresh garlic and maybe a little bit of jalapeno.

There are over 300 comments on this recipe. While mostly positive there are negative ones as well. The negative ones usually happen based on one of these situations.

  • Using something that isn’t a food processor. Blenders don’t have the power to properly blend this and may overheat from use. A food processor is the way to go. Don’t use a blender.
  • Using old garlic, minced garlic, or jarred garlic: Avoid all of these. It will make the end result bitter. Do not use it!
  • Drizzling the oil too fast: This is not a race. You need to drizzle the oil in slowly until it emulsifies. If you dump it in too fast it will liquify and ruin the end result. You may need all the oil.
  • Subbing out the oil: Canola and Vegetable oil work. People have said refined avocado oil works. Other oils will alter the taste and possibly ruin the end product.

Frequently Asked questions:

Is there mayonnaise in garlic sauce?

This is not a potato or mayonnaise-based garlic sauce. One of the best qualities of garlic sauce is that there is no mayo – making it a much healthier alternative.

Is Lebanese Garlic Sauce spicy?

Since the recipe does call for a larger amount of garlic, it can tend to be a little bit on the spicy side.

What’s the shelf life?

You can store the sauce for up to 1 month in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

Your fork is waiting.

Have you tried my


Authentic Lebanese Garlic Sauce?

Leave a 🌟 star rating and let us know how you liked it in the 📝 comments and share it on Instagram, Facebook & Pinterest.

We love hearing from you! This helps us continue to provide free, high-quality recipes.

Authentic Lebanese Garlic Sauce

Liz Della Croce
4.61 stars average
This homemade lebanese garlic sauce (also known as Toum) is made with just 4 ingredients that are naturally vegan and gluten-free.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
CourseAppetizer
Serves64 servings

Ingredients
 
 

  • 1 cup garlic cloves peeled
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3 cups canola oil you may not need all of this
  • ¼ cup lemon juice about one lemon

Video

Instructions
 

  1. Place the garlic cloves and salt in a large food processor and puree until smooth. It's a good idea to scrape down the sides two or three times to ensure that all of the garlic is finely processed.
  2. Turn the machine back on and slowly drizzle in the oil through the lid starting with 1/2 cup. After the first 1/2 cup has been added, pour in a teaspoon of the lemon juice.
  3. Continue alternating between 1/2 cup of the canola oil and a teaspoon of the lemon juice until you've added all of the oil and lemon juice. Alternating between the two is the key to proper emulsification which creates the light and fluffy garlic sauce. One tip is to let the machine run between oil additions to let the emulsion thicken. NOTE: This process requires you to drizzle in the oil — not dump in the oil right away. When you see it begin to thicken up THEN you start with the lemon juice.
  4. You know it's done when the sauce is white and thick with a similar consistency of mayonnaise. It usually takes about 10-15 minutes.

Liz’s Notes

Please read the Path To Success Section prior to making

Nutrition

Serving: 1tablespoon | Calories: 96kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 37mg | Potassium: 10mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 1mg

Have you tried my


Authentic Lebanese Garlic Sauce?

Leave a 🌟 star rating and let us know how you liked it in the 📝 comments and share it on Instagram, Facebook & Pinterest.

We love hearing from you! This helps us continue to provide free, high-quality recipes.

Need more delicious, homemade Lebanese food in your life? Check out my Pinterest board!


4.61 from 218 votes (147 ratings without comment)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *






This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.


348 responses to “Authentic Lebanese Garlic Sauce {Lebanese Toum}”

  1. Harkirat Avatar
    Harkirat

    Found this works well, proportions are perfect

  2. Kendall Avatar
    Kendall

    This is one of the best recipes we use all year round- we sub the canola oil for avocado oil which also makes it Whole30 compliant. We use it on plain pasta, steaks, veggies, fish, and as a sauce for pizza. It is divine!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh yum, I’ll have to try it on pizza next! I’m glad you enjoy it so much, thanks for sharing!

  3. Cynthia Parker Avatar
    Cynthia Parker

    This turned out awesome! I was nervous at first since I don’t have a food processor that lets me add in ingredients while it’s running, so I had to stop to add each time. But after a lot of blending, it ended up amazing!

  4. Jem Avatar
    Jem

    The note would of been useful at the start not the end
    I did the drizzle of the oil but didn’t see the let it thicken up before adding lemon so mine came out runny

  5. Denise Avatar
    Denise

    My sauce broke. I was adding the oil very slowly the only thing I can figure out is it got too warm while blending in food processor.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh no! I’m so sorry, the temperature could have affected it. The only other thing I can think of is if the oil wasn’t fully integrated before adding the lemon juice.

      1. Denise Avatar
        Denise

        Thanks. I will be more careful next try. I will still use this but in different ways. :)

  6. Renee Hewitt Avatar
    Renee Hewitt

    I added an avocado to mine so yummy and the best dip 😋

  7. isaimini Avatar
    isaimini

    thanks

  8. akterja Avatar
    akterja

    i love your blog

  9. Sam Avatar
    Sam

    One of the best sauces I have ever eaten, make sure to not use too much or your mouth will feel like it’s on fire haha

  10. Lori Avatar
    Lori

    There is no longer a live link to the video. Please re-link, if possible. Thanks!

  11. Federika Avatar
    Federika

    I put a bit too much salt… other then that… awesome. I removed the green sprout (not sure how it is called) from the middle of the garlics and this will prevent the sauce from testing bitter…. You have to cut the garlic in half and remove that part in the middle of it that it is generally green and shreds easily.

  12. Brian Avatar
    Brian

    Simple recipe and love the sauce but I can attest for certain that if you use high quality extra virgin olive oil it works just fine.

  13. Colby Avatar
    Colby

    Can I use avocado oil instead of canola oil? Thanks for the recipe – excited to try it!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Avocado oil should be fine in place of canola oil, just not olive oil.

  14. kat Avatar
    kat

    Hi! I’ve made this successfully and also had a few rather unsuccessful tries – I suspect because I halved the recipe and my small food processor wasn’t good enough to chop the garlic fine enough for it to properly thicken? Wondering if I could use a Vitamix blender instead of a food processor here?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I don’t recommend using anything other than a food processor!

  15. Lori Avatar
    Lori

    At first, this did not turn out well for me. The flavor was just off. I was in a hurry so I used pre-chopped garlic from a jar. What a waste I thought. Well, it’s been in the fridge a little over 2 days and I just tasted it again. It’s fantastic! Not sure how long it lasts but it’s very good at 2 days! Also, I used avocado oil, which never fails me!

    1. Ashley @ The Lemon Bowl Avatar
      Ashley @ The Lemon Bowl

      Hi Lori, I’m glad it turned out well for you with your modifications! With this recipe, you can store the sauce in an airtight container for up to one month in the refrigerator. Enjoy!

  16. Shelby Avatar
    Shelby

    What a flavour bomb! It paired perfectly with the falafel and flat breads I’d made. Thank you for sharing your recipe.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      isn’t it the best shelby?? So glad you enjoyed!

  17. Modesto Coor Avatar
    Modesto Coor

    lol…….

  18. Stasia Halbur Avatar
    Stasia Halbur

    I agree with you

  19. Mary Avatar
    Mary

    Hello- can I halve or quarter this recipe or will that mess it up? I haven’t tried making twice and both times the mixture broke so I want to test out again but with less ingredients (to avoid food going to waste if it doesn’t work for me again).

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes you can!

  20. Kat Neal Avatar
    Kat Neal

    I am trying to imitate the garlic sauce at a Turkish kebab restaurant I go to. Their toum/sauce seems more creamy and opaque than regular toum. Do you think they add mayo or egg white? Also, it had little pieces of herbs and vegetables. I’m thinking parsley for the herbs but not sure about the other little chunks. If you have any ideas, I would appreciate it!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I bet it was cilantro or parsley – great idea to add it Kat! I dont know of any with eggs or mayo.

    2. Selma Avatar
      Selma

      The herb would be dill, the pieces you mention are cucumbers. Either grated or chopped

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce
  21. Vanessa Avatar
    Vanessa

    I got the right texture but it’s incredibly bitter! So bitter it’s inedible. What did I do wrong or anything I can do to salvage it?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      It’s likely old garlic causing that I’m afraid.

  22. Siri Solheim Avatar
    Siri Solheim

    I added too much garlic and it is a bit over powering. How can I tone down the Toum?

    Mahalo,
    Siri

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I would just use a small amount. It’s meant to be powerful!

    2. Selma Avatar
      Selma

      Siri just add a little plain yogurt

  23. TJ Avatar
    TJ

    This turned out amazing. The key to this recipe is patience. Don’t try to rush anything, take it slow. I took it a step further with my next batch. I added 2 tsp of Italian Seasoning and took it to a new level. I have both versions in my fridge and can’t stop eating this stuff. I keep spreading it on pita bread. When I run out of pita bread, I am just going to eat it with a spoon. Ok,I already tried that and it was delicious also. Us greeks have a version of this called Skordalia, which also contains potatoes. I prefer this by far over the Skordalia.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Isn’t it addictive?? I’m so glad you love it!!

    2. Linda Avatar
      Linda

      My third time to make this! It never turns thick just stays liquid! I want this to work so much!

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Oh shoot Linda. Did you try watching the video?

      2. Prefer not to name Avatar
        Prefer not to name

        I suck at cooking lol

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          No you do not!

      3. Ali Fadhel Avatar
        Ali Fadhel

        Add egg white, maybe 2, and let it blend for 10 mins. Mind turned out delicious

      4. Chase Avatar
        Chase

        Are we supposed to add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice at a time or 1 tablespoon? In the video the spoons you use for the salt and lemon juice appear to be different sizes. I’m wondering because this recipe often comes apart at the very end, which is frustrating. But I’m wondering if it’s because I’m not adding enough lemon juice.

        Thanks

  24. Reva Avatar
    Reva

    Hi Liz, I’m so excited to give this recipe a try. I had a question (sorry if it makes me sound like a rookie) Can I cook toum or will it separate if heated? We go to this Lebanese restaurant and they have this amazing creamy lemon garlic chicken. I have searched so much but couldn’t find a recipe to get that taste. So I am thinking if I make the toum and mix with heavy cream and then cook the chicken in that sauce? Please let me know your thoughts or if you have a recipe for a creamy lemon garlic chicken that would be godsend! Thank you

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Great question!! Yes you can!! Try this recipe!!

  25. Annie Avatar
    Annie

    Thank YOU, Aunt Paula! And thank you, Liz, for sharing her recipe!

    I have tried making toum a number of times and always had to add an egg white at the end because it would not bind. With the help of the video, FAQs and at recipe, I NAILED IT! By far the best home recipe I have ever tasted. The paper towel was also a precious tip! And to all of you who are eager to skip and move quickly to the recipe, bad – very bad, especially if this is your first attempt at making toom/toum… Do not rush the process, you will be rewarded.

    Un énorme merci, Liz, ma famille est infiniment reconnaissante!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh this makes me so happy! I’ so glad you enjoyed it!!!!!

  26. Karen Avatar
    Karen

    This turned out great! I watched the video first, read the recipe, FAQs, and the comments (as well as reading a few other recipes), and I didn’t have any issues. I’ve never emulsified anything before and was a bit nervous, but I just took it step by step and it did what it was supposed to do. It is sitting in a bowl in the fridge now, covered with paper towel, waiting to be used as a topping on an Instant Pot ground beef shawarma and basmati rice dish. Looking forward to a great combo!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I’m so glad you enjoyed it!!!! Woohoo that all sounds delicious!!!!

  27. Jen Avatar
    Jen

    I love this recipe! Lots of trial and error the first few times I made it (because why would I read a recipe thoroughly :/ lol). But now I have it perfected and it always tastes great.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      hahah that’s funny!

  28. SS Avatar
    SS

    I think it would help to put a time on how long each step takes. I have come up with garlic soup a couple times (whenever I go back to make this again) because I always forget how long each step takes.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Great idea to think about for the future!

    2. Katy Avatar
      Katy

      Would avocado oil work with this? And would a vitamix work if you are slowing adding the oil in from the opening in the top?

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        You can try but i recommend vegetable oil. I also would suggest a food processor.

      2. Tara Avatar
        Tara

        This recipe looks amazing!! Can you freeze the leftovers… If there are any? Ha!!

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          I don’t suggest freezing it!

    3. Mrs. Kory Avatar
      Mrs. Kory

      Money too.
      I have soup.
      I’ll try again another time

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Hi Mrs. Kory – Did you happen to watch the video for guidance? I’d love for you to get this one right!

  29. Carol Avatar
    Carol

    Can I use Avocado oil instead of Canola oil?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes!

      1. Lynsea Avatar
        Lynsea

        Could jarred minced garlic work?

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          No it won’t work I’m afraid.

  30. Sindhu Avatar
    Sindhu

    Amazing ????????

    1. Mollie Avatar
      Mollie

      Is there any other oil that can be used besides canola? Can avocado oil be used?

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        It might alter the taste a bit but I bet it will still be delicious.

  31. Kalinn Avatar
    Kalinn

    A lot of people skip to recipes without watching videos or reading the author’s back story on the recipe. The instructions are misleading because recipe makes it clear to alternate between oil and lemon juice, but did not mention to let the machine run between oil additions to let the emulsion thicken, a critical step that someone probably wouldn’t know to do if they’re not used to making oil emulsions. I just wasted the rest of my roasted garlic and canola oil for this, so disappointed.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Kali! I just updated the recipe to include that – thank you!

      1. Stephanie Avatar
        Stephanie

        Do you need to remove germ from the bulbs of garlic?

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          I never do!

  32. Natasha Avatar
    Natasha

    I tried this exact same recipe as given to me by a Lebanese friend, and she warned me that ‘sometimes it breaks,’ which mine did. Then I found this page and watched the video. I think my problem is that my old food processor is just not as effective as this one? I may try it again, because I can eat this stuff by the bucket. My back up is to just mix a bunch of puréed garlic into some Greek yogurt. No, it’s not the same, but still tasty with my shawarma!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      That’s a great backup!!! Read through the post one more time – I just added in as many more tips as I could think of!

    2. Rachel Makhoul Avatar
      Rachel Makhoul

      Mine did not emulsify and stayed liquid. Any thoughts? I’ve made this twice before and it was perfect.

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Gosh it’s hard to say not having watched you make it – did you try watching the video?

  33. Waverly Avatar
    Waverly

    My first batch turned out like yours (no, I didn’t watch the video, and I SHOULD have), but what I did was mix the failed toum with softened butter for a delicious garlic butter, that I could keep in the fridge and it came out spreadable. Good on veggies, breads, and the like.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I’m so glad you love it!

    2. D Avatar
      D

      I agree here, please fix the directions to tell people to wait until it is thick. You mention that in the FAQs and not in the recipe itself and so several of us are sitting here with garlic soup. Just because other people have had success doesn’t mean you can’t fix it for the rest of us that are new to this!

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Hi There! I am with you and agree 100%! Believe it or not, we update this recipe 50+ times to make it as easy as possible for the millions of people who have used it. I just revised it again – would you agree it’s better now? :) Thanks!! Liz

      2. Sadie Copeland Avatar
        Sadie Copeland

        Hi! Thank you for the recipe, it turned out lovely!

        My question is: can I roast the garlic first to tone down the flavour? It is so strong!

        Or can I all less (half)?

        I’d also love for it to be more lemony and zingy like garlic sauce I get here at a Lebanese restaurant. Can I safely add more lemon juice as well?

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          Hi Sadie! You’re welcome to alter any way you wish but this is meant to be pungent. For example, a serving is just a tablespoon or so. :) You spread it very thinly on what you’re eating similar to a hot salsa.

    3. Sharee Avatar
      Sharee

      Hi!
      My mixture turned sooo thick, way before it was even edible. Any ideas why, and how I can remedy it?

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Hmm.. I usually like it a bit thick? Is there any downside to it being thick?

  34. Camille Avatar
    Camille

    Yep agreed, the instructions are not accurate, you have to watch the tutorial.. my suggestion would be to just update the instructions to ensure accuracy.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Camille – What part of the instructions do you feel aren’t accurate? Let me know and I’ll happily update. This is one of my most popular recipes of all time. Literally millions of people have had success with it. :) I’m happy to help you understand it better any way I can – just let me know!

  35. Marianne Avatar
    Marianne

    This is perfect, thanks for posting the video. I made this before and ruined it by using garlic that was green inside, and the wrong oil. Two observations for people though. Note the lid on the good processor – it puts the oil in the correct place. Also, the chef is a man, and he had height and arm strength on most of us. Put your oil in a smaller container that you can control. Love this site!!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I’m so glad you enjoyed it!!

      1. Fatima Habib Avatar
        Fatima Habib

        Hey Liz! Thank you for sharing your aunts recipe with us. I followed the video and recipe to the T but mine came out too thick. It was the consistency of a mayonnaise but not a very light and smooth one. Can you suggest where i may have gone wrong. Also is it important to let your food processor run for 15 minutes or can we stop in the middle and scrape down? TIA

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          Yes you can stop in the middle and scrape down. The consistency of mayonnaise sounds perfect though? I think you did it righT! Was the flavor good?

      2. Amanda Watson Avatar
        Amanda Watson

        My sauce will not thicken. I have no idea why. Used a Vitamix because I don’t have a food processor but always use my Vitamix for food processor related recipes and works with no issues. I’m not sure what happened but it is soup liquid….

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          Hi Amanda, Hmmm I’ve only used a food processor so I’m afraid I can’t tell you how it would work in a blender. I personally don’t recommend it though, apologies.

    2. Seth Avatar
      Seth

      I’m very excited this is one of my favorite dishes I just would like to know if lime is an okay substitute to the lemon juice

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        I wouldn’t recommend it – grab a lemon if you can!

  36. Kohar Kilejian Avatar
    Kohar Kilejian

    This was amazing. I am Lebanese, but where I am there is no where to have farrouj Meshweh. I am making it today and tried your toum recipe, it is amazing. I freeze my garlic and use it the rest of the year. I started freezing lemon juice, in small containers. This recipe makes too much sauce. I am going to freeze, in small portions, and will use it as needed. thank you.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh that’s a great idea!!!!

      1. Racheal lilly Avatar
        Racheal lilly

        Can I use almond oil or coconut oil?

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          It won’t taste how you’re hoping it will I’m afraid.

  37. Wendy Avatar
    Wendy

    I can’t believe canola oil can come out to taste like that of the restaurants garlic sauce. This stuff is fabulous. Trying to figure out more dinner items that I can use the remainder of it on.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I’m so glad you love it Wendy!

  38. gail lynn jones Avatar
    gail lynn jones

    I love this sauce and have made it twice. But be warned it is very HOT and can burn your mouth. Small amounts as recommended.

    1. Fayaz Avatar
      Fayaz

      I followed the recipe. The consistency and taste is good. Loved it. Just like I have it at my favorite restaurant. However, like another reviewer mentioned, it is too hot and gives a burn to the tongue. I was wondering if it is because of organic garlic or may be I need to may be use less than a cup? Please advise.

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Hi There, This is meant to be a pretty strong, garlicky spread so if your garlic is fresh it might be stronger than you’re used to in restaurants. In that case just use /eat less of it when you enjoy it. :)

  39. Stacey Anderson Avatar
    Stacey Anderson

    I don’t have canola oil. Will it work with grape seed oil and peanut oil? Those are what I have other than Olive and coconut oils.
    Thanks in advance for your input!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I’ve only tried canola but my next choice would be grape seed. Not peanut!

    2. Liz Avatar
      Liz

      I used grapeseed oil and while the consistency and taste were the same, the colour was very off putting! Green garlic sauce…..

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Interesting!!

  40. joel Avatar
    joel

    i think its important to remember that the type of garlic used makes a huge difference. Elephant garlic is milder then others, I like a strong garlic flavor and use a hardneck variety.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes very good point!

  41. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
    Liz DellaCroce

    Oh no! Did you happen to watch the recipe video?

  42. Vangos Avatar
    Vangos

    This is basically similar to the Greek Skordalia – Potato/Garlic Dip Sauce. The major difference of course is the only use of oil in the Lebanese Sauce compared to the use of mainly potato puree in the Greek Sauce, and about 1 cup of olive oil per 1kg potatoes and about half a head of garlic. The rest of ingredients and procedure are similar, with the Greek Sauce using lemon juice or red wine vinegar or both, with vinegar alone being the majority preference of acid component. However I do find that the Lebanese sauce uses way too much garlic in average wherever I have had it, which makes it so high concentrated that you can only tolerate small amounts. But when eating Shawarmas and garlic potatoes you will definitely crave at least a quartr or third of a cup sauce per person and that will burn your insides until next day. So a good suggestion would be max use of 1 garlic head per 3 cups of oil, because not everyone can tolerate so much garlic and that’s already pushing it. Too much is as bad as too little. I gave it 5 stars because I happen know what the outcome can be before I make it. Thank you, cheers! OPA!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh that sounds incredible also!

  43. Faith Romero Avatar
    Faith Romero

    Hi Liz, can you kindly explain help me understand why to only use canola or vegetable oil? Can I use avocado oil or olive oil instead? Thank you and have a wonderful day! ♡

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Because the flavor will be too strong with any other type of oil. :) My aunt made this very clear!

    2. Zsuzsa Avatar
      Zsuzsa

      Refined avocado oil will work too. Any type of neutral tasting oil. The more salt you add, the hotter, the sharper the garlic flavor will be. Less salt results in a dull, flat garlic taste.

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        That’s perfect!

      2. Lincy Avatar
        Lincy

        How do I lessen the spiciness of the garlic?

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          This dish is inherently “spicy” but you could use less garlic.

      3. Shireen Avatar
        Shireen

        I’ve been looking for a good garlic sauce recipe like the ones at the restaurants when they only give you a tiny amount and you’re always left asking for more! Well this one is it! I used a blender, ended up using less than 2 cups of oil though because it was getting too thick. Maybe I was adding the oil too slowly. Anyway the flavour was exactly how I wNted and creamy white thick like mayo! Lots of sauce so I gave some to family and hoping it will store for a while! Thank you!! My son was licking it straight even though it’s spicy!

  44. Eliza Allan Avatar
    Eliza Allan

    Any suggestions how to make more runny if i keep adding oil will it split? As an emulsion can i whip some water into it?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes that might!

  45. Susan Avatar
    Susan

    Can I make this recipe without salt (low sodium diet)

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes for sure!

  46. Natalie Brown Avatar
    Natalie Brown

    Why is my product coming out a little “spicy”. It tastes great, but just a little too spicy!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      It’s likely because your garlic is fresh. :)

  47. Grace Avatar
    Grace

    So excited I found recipe..followed exactly looked great texture smell every.but wow it was sooooo strong,it was nearly edible had friendsviver that love the stuff till took a taste.wayy way to strong what do I do next time..I even split in half and added more oil still way to strong…help……..

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hey Grace! Yes it’s very strong. Especially if you’re using fresh garlic. The key is just using a small amount when eating it. :)

  48. billytimmy Avatar
    billytimmy

    FYI you can use a light olive oil like the filippo berio gold can and it comes out pure white and fluffy

    my modification to your recipe is 6 large garlic cloves, 1 lemon, salt and maybe a cup of oil. comes out perfect and just like the middle east restaurant in cambridge ma serves it

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Great tip!

  49. Summer J Fields Avatar
    Summer J Fields

    Recipe was really off from the process! Doesn’t work. 1/2 oil at a time was way too much

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Summer- Did you happen to watch the video? That might help a bit!

    2. Cooper Avatar
      Cooper

      Just made this tonight! My family does an “international night” every Friday where we all make something new and then show off our creation! I chose Lebanese food this week and made this sauce. There was a wonderful authentic Lebanese restaurant near my home as a kid, and I remember this garlic sauce being a hit every time we went there for dinner, so I had to make it for international night! This was exactly as I remember it. It is just as strong, pungent, and flavorful as it was at the restaurant. It is meant to be strong, but that is great because a little goes a long way! Thanks for sharing and bringing me back home for a night.

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Oh my goodness what a fun theme!!! We might need to steal that idea from you!!! So glad you enjoyed it!!!!!

  50. Lk Avatar
    Lk

    I have been trying for years to perfect a garlic sauce. My husband is Lebanese and he thought it was the best! I invited a few people over for some chicken schwarmas and they were thoroughly impressed! Thank you sooooo much for sharing!❤️❤️❤️

    1. Basma Avatar
      Basma

      I LOVE Toum and am so glad for this recipe. I recently froze some peeled cloves so they wouldn’t go bad. Would those work? Or can I roast them before making?

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Yes that should!!

  51. Judy Avatar
    Judy

    Can I use avocado oil? I am on a keto diet and I cannot consume vegetable oil or canola oil. I love garlic sauce and want to find another alternative to make it.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      You sure can but it might not taste like you expect :)

    2. Zsuzsa Avatar
      Zsuzsa

      Refined avocado oil will work perfectly.

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Great!!

  52. Emily Avatar
    Emily

    Can you heat this? I am interested in using it as a pizza sauce.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      YES!! I use it on baked chicken all the time!

  53. Kim Bachman Avatar
    Kim Bachman

    just a note: in the first directions you say that the sauce lasts up to 7 days and further down you say that it lasts for a month?? Thanks

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Good catch! It’s one month just revised!

      1. KB Avatar
        KB

        I love the taste and texture but both times I made it, it came out a little spicy. We absolutely love the tastes of garlic and the strong garlic flavor doesn’t affect us the least but my wife can’t handle spicy foods. Tried using elephant garlic and it turned out bitter. I know the fresher the garlic, the more spicy it will be. Any suggestion on how to pick garlic that is not too fresh?

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          I’ve heard that it depends on the freshness of the garlic. The fresher the spicier!

  54. Courtney Avatar
    Courtney

    I am so happy to find your recipe! I have only this year tried lebanese food and i am in love!! And this sauce is to die for! I also loved reading about your aunt. Got me all emotional haha. She seems like an amazing person.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh I’m so glad!!!! Isn’t it just the best?

  55. Brittany Lyons Avatar
    Brittany Lyons

    Love Love Love this. I wish it only had 12 calories per tablespoon. Could this be wrong? I assume the recipe yield is 4 cups (64 T). Does that sound right? And if a cup of canola oil has just under 2000 calories (1,927ish…) You’ve gotta have at least 90 Cal per Tablespoon. I’m secretly hoping I’m calculating something wrong…. because it’s so delicious on EVERYTHING. Let me know what you think!!!!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Good catch. :) Error with the calculator – all fixed!

      1. kl Avatar
        kl

        But it says 96 kcal per table spoon! That’s quite scary!

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          It’s extremely potent – you don’t need much!

  56. Renee Avatar
    Renee

    Followed the directions and mine turned out perfectly! I have tried making it before your recipe and it never worked but I feel that alternating the drizzle and lemon really is key to the success! Thanks so much!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I’m so glad you liked it!!! :)

  57. Colleen Avatar
    Colleen

    This recipe is so good! I followed the directions exactly as they were written and it turned out perfect. Mine had the consistency of thick mayo and the flavour was beautiful. I’m saving this recipe for future use.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      So happy to hear it!!

  58. Olivia Avatar
    Olivia

    Tried to make this but a half recipe, and ended up with an oily mess. Nothing came together, and I only put in a cup of oil. It never came together, and it basically became flavoured oil. I kept thinking “maybe if I just put a bit more, itll finally work” but no. 15 minutes in the food processor and it looked the same as the first 2 minutes. I even tried putting it in my kitchenaid to whip it, thinking maybe if I just whip some air into it itll thicken up, and nope. Extremely disappointed! Thank goodness garlic is cheap or else I’d be really angry because I wasted 2 heads for nothing.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Olivia – I’m so sorry this recipe wasn’t a success for you. By chance did you watch the video tutorial? Perhaps that can help you pinpoint where you went wrong. This is one of my most popular recipes so I want to help you enjoy it like thousands of others have.

  59. Ivette Avatar
    Ivette

    I was hoping for a more refined sauce, almost like fluff, light and airy. This one is more of a mayo/butter consistency (I just noticed in your description “mayo like”. A restaurant in NYC serves the fluffy type, but of course – it’s a secret recipe! Also, theirs is purely White, my has the mayo color. Tastes great just visual disappointment.

  60. Kristin Zouras Avatar
    Kristin Zouras

    Do you know if this can be made in a Vitamix?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I’m not sure – I’ve only used a food processor!

      1. Molly Avatar
        Molly

        I have made this in my vitamix, but its difficult until you get enough ingredients for the blades to do their job

  61. Bryan Avatar
    Bryan

    This was so simple to make. I’ve ALWAYS wanted to make this but never knew just how to do it. My first time didn’t turn out perfect, But it was still delicious. I’ll use this recipe going forward. I’ve already shared it with several friends and family.

    1. Bryan Avatar
      Bryan

      I’d like to add that We used approx. 1 cup of oil. Maybe less. Just waited for the right consistency.
      I’ve had this at a Mediterranean restaurant before and based my idea of the consistency off of that.

      The sauce is VERY pungent. You’re supposed to use very little.

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Yes very much!

    2. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I’m so glad you enjoyed!

  62. Robert Avatar
    Robert

    This is a good recipe. Really enjoyed my first batch which turned out beautifully. Thanks for the tips that everybody left about their experiences.

  63. JFran Avatar
    JFran

    This was the first thing i ever made in a food processor. The first time i made it, it turned out perfectly. I must have made a HUGE mistake because ive tried making it 3 times since then (twice today) and it just breaks apart at the end. Very disappointed it seems this recipe doesn’t capture whatever mistake i made to successfully make this.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I wish I could help you problem solve where you went wrong. Did you slowly drizzle in the oil?

      1. JFran Avatar
        JFran

        So slowly, even slower the 2nd and 3rd time. It looks like the right consistancy then it falls apart. Took about 35 mins to add the oil and lemon juice.

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          YES!! :)

  64. Frances Witherspoon Avatar
    Frances Witherspoon

    I wish i would’ve read reviews first. OB a long tired day i was excited yo make this but the recipe says 3 cups of oil. Would’ve been nice to know to stop when the consistency was right. Because now all my ingredients, effort, and patience are wasted. Better instructions make happier hard working moms who want to make a good dinner for their kids

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Frances, I’m so sorry this didnt turn out for you. As a busy working mom I get where you’re coming from!! I just re-read the ingredients and it says to add the oil 1/2 cup at a time until you reach the right consistency. Is there something else I should add that would have helped you avoid the mistake? Let me know!!

      1. Mel Avatar
        Mel

        Maybe put next to the 3 cups of oil YOU MAY NOT NEED ALL THIS. AS I TOO JUST PUT IN ALL TUE OIL

      2. Mel Avatar
        Mel

        Ps it says in the instructions UNTIL YOU HAVE ADDED ALL THE OIL

  65. Indy Moussa Avatar
    Indy Moussa

    For all those that commented that they ended up with a watery oily mess, this has nothing to do with the amount of oil listed or any of the other things listed. The recipe is pretty spot on, except that I use a raw egg as well (just like mayo) Here’s the reason, and don’t laugh. You are paying too much attention to a recipe and not enough attention to watching your garlic. I’m Lebanese, came to the US at 14 and I learned this from my mother, the best Lebanese cook I’ve ever known. The first few times I broke it and it ended up in the garbage. People ask me to bring this to every barbecue and every time another fellow middle easterner tries to make this they tell me I’ve not given them the accurate recipe. WATCH the garlic. Drizzle in the oil at first. Do NOT pour in a half cup of oil. It’s a process. drizzle and watch. drizzle and watch. and when you see it begin to thicken up THEN you start with the lemon. That’s the trick. Good luck. Also for those that found this too garlicky (3 heads of garlic is a lot) You can make this same fluffy concoction with one head of garlic and it will be a little less potent. Sahtein!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      YES!!! Thank you so much!! :)

  66. Casey Avatar
    Casey

    I’ve got it! Making this a handful of times now, I think I have the ultimate tip…you have to commit to 1/2 cup of oil to 2 tsp of lemon juice. Use as much garlic as you want (I would recommend at least 2 heads of garlic), once minced in food processor and then slowly add oil then lemon juice…then add more in the same ratio and in same order. Keep adding as necessary until it becomes Mayo or a mousse consistency. You just have to commit to that ratio…1/2 cup of oil to 2 tsp of lemon juice. Good Luck & Enjoy!

  67. Aashika Avatar
    Aashika

    So I tried this same recipe that came up as a youtube search when I looked for this. But it was soooooo strong !! I think something needs to be done to alter the recipe. Maybe need some cream or milk and definitely more salt and lemon. Looking to perfect the recipe because the garlic is extremely pungent! Thanks!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Aashika – I bet that means your garlic was really pungent! It’s a very strong recipe – it’s supposed to be garlicky! :)

      1. Emad Avatar
        Emad

        We also found a pungent garlic shock initially so I added 2 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil and that just calmed everything down and made it taste creamier! This was a good recipe otherwise with the right amount of salt and garlic. We also added an additional half cup of canola oil to make it taste to our likening!

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          So glad you made it your own!! It’s supposed to be very strong – you use VERY little. :)

  68. Nathan Avatar
    Nathan

    I also ended up with a watery liquid of far too much oil. I second the suggestion that the recipe should be changed to say “add oil until you reach a mayonnaise-like consistency” or something similar. Being clear that not all the oil may be needed.

    Also, just wanted to add a way to “save” this recipe if you have indeed put in far too much oil. For those of you who can eat dairy, I would suggest simply adding some of the watery mixture to some yoghurt. Spoon a few teaspoons into half a cup of yoghurt (or similar ratios for larger amounts) and mix in well. It still tastes great and also saves you having to throw away a litre of oil and a whole heap of garlic.

  69. Colleen Noyes Avatar
    Colleen Noyes

    We love this recipe!!! First watch a video of how the process works using a food processor only.
    The first time I made it I used a blender and it failed miserable so I watched videos and that made all the difference in the world. My husband is addicted to this Sauce.

    Thank You
    Colleen

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      So glad!!! Isn’t it the best?

  70. g Avatar
    g

    Any idea of what to use in place or lemon juice? I’m highly allergic :-( apple cider vinegar perhaps or another fruit juice that’s not citrus?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Perhaps plain vinegar?

  71. Mellanie Parrish Avatar
    Mellanie Parrish

    I want to try this with avocado oil. Would that work instead of canola oil. (I can’t eat canola oil.)

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      It would work but it would change the flavor. :)

  72. Rachael Avatar
    Rachael

    This didn’t work for me, I’ve never tried to make garlic sauce before, so maybe I’m doing something wrong? I followed the recipe but it came out watery. If the sauce looks like the perfect texture, should I stop adding oil and juice? It was good to a point then the more I added it fell apart at the end. Should I have stopped? Thanks!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes exactly that’s the point you stop!!

      1. Angie Avatar
        Angie

        To Kathie, it’s shame your comment came across quite
        rudely, there isn’t any reason to be so blunt, surely people realise that this recipe could turn out quite different for everyone.

  73. Maariya Avatar
    Maariya

    Unfortunately this recipe did not work out for me… I think there should be a note that this recipe will NOT work with just a blender. I followed the recipe so precisely, measured every ingredient, added slowly, pulsed when it came apart, and still ended up with a watery mixture at the end.. Flavor was great, but texture like water. I even read the comments and tried cooling it down in the freezer for 30 minutes, whisking it by hand, shaking it in a sealed container (all the time with absolutely no water, not even a drop), none of this worked. I then blended a little extra garlic, slowly poured in the old watery mixture, hoping it would somehow fluff up, but it never happened… Kinda sad

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Maariya, So sorry this didn’t work out for you! As mentioned in the recipe, it requires a food processor. I would not recommend a blender which is why I don’t mention one in the recipe. So sorry!

  74. Jessica Avatar
    Jessica

    Hello! I am wondering – have you ever used a hand/immersion blender for this recipe? Thank you!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      No I haven’t but you should try!

  75. Victoria Avatar
    Victoria

    Hi, thankyou for your recipe. I made this tonight and while the texture is perfect, the flavour is very strong with a burn. I’ve used home grown garlic. There’s many mention of using boiled potatoes mixed with the garlic so I’m wondering if I could add boiled potato into the food processor with the toum to tone it down. Do you have any other suggestions to tone it down while keeping the recipe vegan? Thanks for your help

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I think it really depends on the strength of the garlic!! I notice that as well when I order it in restaurants!

  76. Adrienne Avatar
    Adrienne

    I made this the other day, it was excellent! I only used 3c of oil (2.5C vegtable, .5Coliveoil).

    It’s delicious! I tried to do this in the blender, but it wasn’t turning out right. I thought it wasn’t going to come together at first, so i switched to an electric hand mixture and just kept on beating it and it eventually formed a lovely mixture of the correct texture.

    Thank you for sharing this recipe!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      So glad you enjoyed it!!! :)

  77. Lily Avatar
    Lily

    Fabulous! Made a test batch and used rapeseed oil. Had to finish by hand My food processor doesn’t a allow it to be run for so long but is sooo good ?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      That sounds so good!

    2. Marie Rose Avatar
      Marie Rose

      Mine turned out perfectly using the food processor and avocado oil. I alternated the 1/2c oil with 1tsp lemon juice. I ended up with 3 c oil but only 6 tsp lemon juice, which is half of the recipe’s amount, so I added 3 extra tsp at the end to make 9 tsp and it tasted good. It was beautiful and the perfect consistency that evening. The next day, however, it broke down into oil and liquid and garlic. 24 hours later it looks like clumps of buffalo mozzarella in oil! :(. Still tastes delicious but no longer spreadable. Is there a way to re-emulsify it? Put it back in the food processor?
      The recipe made about 3 cups of sauce, for those who are curious! It was about 24 oz by weight.

  78. Peggy Finnegan Avatar
    Peggy Finnegan

    I made the garlic sauce. It’s great, how long will it last in the refrigerator.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I would say 5-7 days!

  79. Ginny Avatar
    Ginny

    Mine broke right at the end. If I was to keep the processor on, do you think it would come together?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes that’s what people have said!!!

    2. FreshT Avatar
      FreshT

      Pulse it back together. Basically folding it together slowly. Chin up it happens to all of us

  80. Jami L Johnson Avatar
    Jami L Johnson

    So my only experience with toum is that I ate it at a restaurant a couple times and couldn’t stop thinking about it. I found this recipe and followed it exactly as laid out. I even banned my husband and child from the kitchen because I didn’t want water entering the area. For some reason neither of them can seem to keep water in the sink. I might add that I have never made mayonnaise either so I was skeptical that this would actually turn out out for me. It actually turned out perfect and I followed it to a “T”. So just follow it exactly and you shouldn’t have any problems. I loved it! I even gave a jar of it to my friend that introduced me to this amazing sauce!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh I’m so thrilled to hear this Jami!! Isn’t it the BEST?? We just had it this weekend for dipping pita bread and spreading on grilled chicken. Enjoy!!

  81. Nazia Avatar
    Nazia

    Would this work if i used a batch of garlic i just roasted instead of raw?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      No it wouldn’t I’m afraid!

  82. Toby Long Avatar
    Toby Long

    Is there a way to use the already diced garlic in a jar from the store? If so, how much?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      No I would only recommend using fresh. I’m afraid store bought is quite bitter.

  83. Marcia Avatar
    Marcia

    Mine came out super thick like Cold left over mash potatos. Any idea why this happened? I was about 1/2 cup short on oil but I don’t think that was why .

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes that would be why, you didn’t have enough oil. I hope you try again!

  84. Lisa Avatar
    Lisa

    Just made this and it came out perfect! The sauce did break at one point, but I stopped adding oil or lemon and continued to process it until it came back together. Thank you for the recipe!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I’m so happy you enjoyed it!!!!

  85. Diane Avatar
    Diane

    Erica – what would be a better choice of oil then? Avocado?

  86. Sandi Parker Avatar
    Sandi Parker

    Wondering why you don’t recommend using olive oil. I recently bought this at a Lebanese market and it was made with olive oil and it is delicious -and a wonderfully light whipped texture. Also, what constitutes one serving in your nutrition facts?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      My aunt taught me to never use olive oil as it negatively affects the flavor of the finished product. Serving size is 1 tablespoon – I edited the recipe to reflect that. :) Enjoy!!

    2. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Yes I don’t recommend olive oil!

  87. Sherri Avatar
    Sherri

    FYI if you put your oil in the fridge for hour or freezer til really cold but still liquid and then drizzle into blender it helps stop the sauce from breaking ???? Great sauce

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Great idea!!!

  88. Jan Avatar
    Jan

    Is there any way to fix this recipe once it breaks? It was fine until the very end! Argh!!! I have made it before and just loved it, but it just failed big time this time.

    Is it possible to cut the recipe in 1/2 and get the same results, or will this be a problem?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Jan – I’ve never had it break Im sorry!! Have you watched the video to see where something might be going wrong?

      1. Adam Avatar
        Adam

        Actually there is a way.
        One of my batches broke because I’ve poured last batch of oil too quickly, I didn’t want to waste everything so I’ve used just half cup of newly peeled garlic, 1 cup of new oil and one cup of broken mixture. Keep mixing it as in original recipe but pouring (SLOWLY) interchangeably new oil and lemon juice and broken mix and lemon juice. It worked great!.

        Has anybody kept unopened this sauce longer than a month in a fridge?

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          I’ve only kept it 10 days but that’s because it doesn’t last!

        2. Derrick Allums Avatar
          Derrick Allums

          Thanks so much. I botched the first batch. This tip helped me recovery. Thanks so much.

          1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
            Liz DellaCroce

            So glad to hear it!!!

      2. Kay Avatar
        Kay

        I emptied my liquidy mixture into a bowl, then added a little bit of garlic into food processor. Once the garlic was processed, I added the initial batch in 1/4 cup increments. (as slowly as possible) And I got that fluffy texture! No need to toss the initial batch!

      3. Angal827 Avatar
        Angal827

        Yes. I did it by putting the mixture into a sealed jar and shake until it thickens to mayo consistency.

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          Smart!

  89. Kellie Avatar
    Kellie

    Hi there! I watched the video and followed the recipe exactly and ended up with almost garlic water : ( any advice?

    I love this garlic sauce, my roommate used to make it all the time, it is delicious, hoping I master it next attempt!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Kellie – I’m not sure as I’ve never had any issues with it but perhaps if you read through the comments you might get a little help. Did you make ANY changes at all?

  90. Jackie Avatar
    Jackie

    I just made this exactly how you specified and it was absolutely delicious!
    Thank you????

  91. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
    Liz DellaCroce

    You are so right Erica! Sorry about that!

  92. Beth Sikkema Avatar
    Beth Sikkema

    Why does the olive oil ruin the recipe? I go to a little WONDERFUL Lebanese restaurant and they tell me they make their garlic sauce with olive oil and it’s fabulous. They are the reason I am searching online for the recipe. Thanks in advance. Will be trying this recipe soon.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh that’s great to hear!! My aunt feels olive oil ruins the flavor but it’s all a matter of preference.

      1. Gabriel Nugent Avatar
        Gabriel Nugent

        Just to be clear, any oil can be used in this recipe as they have properties that will form an emulsification. However, this is all about preference of taste for the end result. There is light tasting olive oil which will not impact the flavor much as extra virgin will. I’ve made that mistake in experimenting and it tastes horrible.

        Also, some keys to this I will share are, you MUST use fresh lemon juice. Do not attempt to use lemon juice from a bottle, it will not come together this way. That’s not even lemon juice btw. Also, a trick I’ve learned over the years is using a good immersion blender instead of a blender or food processor. I use a Breville. This allows me to have better control of the air I am pumping in as the blades are often spinning at higher rpm than the latter. Finally, learn to make a decent tabouli and you’ll be set. Key there, the recipe is NOT half bulgur wheat, that’s not tabouli.

    2. Lise Avatar
      Lise

      When you whip up live oil into an aioli or mayonnaise consistency it goes terribly bitter. Use a neutral oil to make it, and finish with some olive oil if you want. I learned the hard way.

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Yes I agree!

  93. KJ Avatar
    KJ

    Love the sauce made a batch last night. Second attempt,turned out great. The slow pour seams to be the key to success. Sauce turned out nice and fluffy just like my favourite shawarma shop here in Ottawa. I used a boiled potato in with the processed garlic before adding oil. My only issue is the sauce in question is noticeable more stronger than what I’m used to getting on my shawarma. Is there such thing as a mild garlic? Anybody know ways to buff the garlic taste so it doesn’t burn the tongue. Maybe adding sour cream to the end product?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      So glad it turned out!!! As for the strength of the garlic, i think it depends on the freshness. I personally wouldn’t recommend adding dairy to it at the end but if you try it and it works out let me know!

    2. Becks Avatar
      Becks

      You can try cooking the garlic in a little oil on the stove before adding to the food processor m. Just sauté it lightly so that sharp bite cooks out.

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Interesting idea!

    3. Ian Avatar
      Ian

      “Elephant garlic” has a milder taste and also easier to peel / use. Check local health food stores or other specialty grocers

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Great idea!

  94. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
    Liz DellaCroce

    Hi Terrie – Did you watch the video to see where the error might have taken place?

  95. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
    Liz DellaCroce

    Did you end up getting it to work? Be sure to watch the video!

    1. Katherine Avatar
      Katherine

      Hi, can you please tell me where the video is? I’d like to try making it again but am dealing with the same problem of too much oil..

      Thanks!

  96. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
    Liz DellaCroce

    Four cups of what is too much? Just want to clarify to help you make this recipe a success!

  97. christopher Avatar
    christopher

    can i use coconut oil instead of canola

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      It would negatively impact the flavor in my opinion but you’re welcome to give it a try!

  98. Shawn Avatar
    Shawn

    Hi. Your recipe ingredients say “1 cup juice of lemon about 1/4 cup,” does this mean the juice of 1 lemon, which is roughly 1/4 cup?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      So sorry about that – it’s juice of one lemon (about 1/4 cup). I have updated the recipe!

  99. Megan Cofield Avatar
    Megan Cofield

    We love the recipe but ran into a number of problems with the consistency and mixture as others have posted most likely because of our food processor. We had to play around a little bit but finally came up with a good solution. If you are going along with the recipe and find it separating, as we did, then try transferring the mixture to a mixing bowl and using a hand mixer to complete the final portion of adding the remaining oil and lemon juice. We ended up straining the garlic out of the oil we had, putting the garlic into a mixing bowl and continued with adding the oil and lemon juice using the hand mixer and it worked out great!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      What a great tip!! So glad it worked out!

  100. Marcie Avatar
    Marcie

    I used to eat at this fantastic Lebanese restaurant when I lived in Florida. They had this wonderful white garlicy sauce, and I asked what it was one time. They told me it was “whipped garlic.” I am assuming this recipe is essentially what it was, so I’m excited to try it. My question is this: you noted not to use olive oil, because it will ruin the end result. How will it ruin the finished product? Is it a flavor issue, or consistency? I tend to use olive oil in all my cooking, though I have used other oils on occasion. Thanks!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Marcie – I’m so glad you found this recipe! Olive oil is not advised because it will impact the flavor and won’t be what you’re used to in restaurants. You’re welcome to try it though and report back!

  101. Rachel Avatar
    Rachel

    Absolutely delicious, it’s awesome that your Aunt makes Ghee for the family too! the only thing that I change is I use a MILD flavored Olive Oil ( not EVOO) because canola and vegetable oils are considered inflammatory foods in Whole30 world. Thanks for sharing :-)

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      So glad you enjoyed it!!

  102. M Rogier Avatar
    M Rogier

    I am thrilled to finally find a recipe for this amazing garlic sauce. I moved to the Detroit area, and my co-workers would order takeout from a local Middle Eastern restaurant a couple of times a week. My only experience with Middle Eastern food was really awful gyros, falafel, and the only pitas were mass produced like grocery store sandwich bread. I tried the chicken shawarma, rice pilaf, grilled vegetables, and hot pitas made by the restaurant right before packaging for delivery. What made the meat, vegetables, and pita over the top amazing was the garlic sauce! Not all restaurants serve it, and my husband and I missed the garlic sauce so much. I can’t wait to try it. I did buy some elephant garlic because it’s more mild, and the garlic in grocery stores can get old, which makes it taste hotter.

    I have made homemade mayo, which also uses the emulsion method. The key is SLOWLY mixing the oil in. Most vinaigrettes include mustard because it keeps the emulsion stable and stops the oil and vinegar from separating. If getting the garlic sauce to emulsify is still difficult, a bit of mayo or mustard would help.

    I can’t wait to bake fresh pitas, grill vegetables and chicken, and serve it all with you homemade Toum, Liz. I love your blog. Thanks.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Thank you so much for your sweet note! I am so glad you found my blog and found this recipe. Please let me know what other recipes you try!! You can find all my Lebanese recipes here: https://thelemonbowl.com/middle-eastern/

  103. Kevin R. Avatar
    Kevin R.

    Hello,
    I made toum yesterday similar ingredients but when i tasted it, it had a very strong oil taste. I was wondering if you knew why or how this happens. I used
    2 cups pre-minced garlic
    Juice from 1 Lemon
    1/4 tsp salt
    3 cups canola oil
    2 egg whites

    The blender started to get really warm and full so I stopped I had no problems with separation or anything like that.
    When I looked at your recipe you use more oil than I did but your reviews are still awesome. So i’m wondering where I’m going wrong. I’ve tried to use a food processor in the past and I’ve always had problems with separation. This is the first time using a blender and it worked wonderful besides it tasting like canola oil. Do I need more salt and lemon juice? Is it because I used pre-minced garlic? Will I be able to half the mixture and blend the ingredients again?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I would definitely only recommend using fresh garlic not pre-minced. Let me know if that helps!!

  104. K Avatar
    K

    Hi Liz, a lot of toum recipes use boiled potatoes in them to soften the strong taste of the garlic + lemons and I found it works quite well. I thought all Lebanese people make it this way. Is that not so then?

    I grew up in the Middle East and have loved this sauce in shawarmas since I was very little :-)

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh that’s interesting about the potato!!! We have never tried it that way but that’s great to know!!!!

  105. ellenk Avatar
    ellenk

    Sounds wonderful! Can the lemon juice be ‘cooked’ in some way for a family member who has an allergy? Would that change the chemistry, do you think? Otherwise it would fit in with other allergies that several people have…

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      That’s a great question but I don’t know the answer! I would call and ask an allergist?

      1. ellenk Avatar
        ellenk

        Thanks. To clarify my question a bit: The lemon juice being ‘cooked’ slightly makes it ok for the allergy sufferer; I’m wondering if the sauce will form with the juice heated and cooled. :)

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          Ahhhh that’s a great question. I am guessing it will still work perfectly!! thanks for clarifying!

  106. Karl Avatar
    Karl

    When I pour the oil into the food processor, very slowly like in the video, the mixture simply never emulsifies, or becomes anything other than a liquid. Even the tiniest amout of oil, with the processor at full speed, stays completely liquified. What am I missing here??

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Karl – I’m not quite sure. Is it a pretty high speed, good quality food processor? It’s hard to say – I’ve never had any issues!

  107. Emily Avatar
    Emily

    Thank you–I was just going to note this. I found this searching for Paleo Garlic Paste…and am going to have to keep searching.

  108. Lauren Avatar
    Lauren

    Just had this the other week at an amazing Lebanese restaurant. It was so good I had to figure out how to make it myself. Thank you so much for posting this!!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh I’m so glad!!! I have tons of Lebanese recipes, enjoy!!

  109. Kate Avatar
    Kate

    I keep trying to make this and it ends up being soup every time. I follow the instructions to the T. I wish I knew what I was doing wrong.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Kate – Have you checked out the video I included?

  110. Joanne Avatar
    Joanne

    Hi Liz – thanks for the great recipe! Ever since leaving Dearborn, where I lived over 10 years, I long for my favorite Lebanese dishes. I made this recipe today, to go with shish tawook, as well as your hushdee rice, all were a hit! I did have a setback though…perhaps I added the oil too quickly, or the food processor was heating up the mixture, but it just did not emulsify – very runny. I strained it with a fine mesh strainer, and chilled the two parts (the oil, and the part that had actually emulsified). I put the emulsified garlic portion back in food processor, added the oil s-l-o-w-l-y – and it worked like a charm! Completely salvaged. Many thanks.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Joanne – This recipe does require a little bit of finesse I’ve found. Did you happen to watch the video? It helps to see the pace at which you add everything. BTW Your meal sounds incredible!

  111. Maj Avatar
    Maj

    Hi…
    Thanks for the recipe. I am eager to try it out, however, I don’t have a food processor. Is it possible to make this with a blender or a mixer?

    Many thanks for sharing!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      You can definitely use a high speed blender but a food processor is preferred. Perhaps you can borrow from a friend?

  112. Chef Jay Avatar
    Chef Jay

    Wow this is far easier than the method I’ve been using for the past several years. I’m straight up stealing this method.

    Note: I’ve actually both peanut oil and I have added onion and olive oil to the purée, and to be honest it wasn’t really disastrous at all.

  113. Janet Edwards Avatar
    Janet Edwards

    Best garlic sause EVER! I love this garlic sause! Highly recommend this recipe!
    Grill chicken and Italian squash, put on top of pilaf, and top with this garlic sause.. Out of this world taste!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I am so glad you enjoyed it Janet!!

  114. Janet Edwards Avatar
    Janet Edwards

    I just made this recipe and I’m in garlic heaven! It worked perfectly! To the author of this recipe, I want to say Thank you for all the trouble you went through to make this recipe just right! And I want to say, Congratulations to myself cause I did it, first try!
    This recipe is, of course, very garlicky! I tired a little recipe of my own, using 2 Tbs garlic sause, 2 Tbs mayonnaise, and a splash of soy sause, for a lighter sause. Great tasting! A Mediterranean restaurant told me that’s how they make their garlic sause.
    Thank you again! I highly recommend this recipe!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I’m so glad you enjoyed it and that it worked out so well!!!

  115. Andrea Avatar
    Andrea

    I love this sauce when I’m out to eat! Tried to make it today and it tastes heavenly but it has a very hot garlic bit. Any ideas? Not enough lemon juice/oil? Maybe I put in too much garlic. It has the perfect flavor, it’s just that bite.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hmmm… I wonder if the garlic was a bit old/bitter? I’m really not sure, it’s hard to say! Some garlic is simply stronger than others. Try more lemon juice?

  116. Sarah Avatar
    Sarah

    I made this for my family last night and it was a hit! I didn’t watch the youtube video, but I put a funnel on top of my food processor to slow down the stream of oil. It came together perfectly! Thank for sharing!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I am so happy to hear it!!!!

  117. Charbel Avatar
    Charbel

    I just tried it yesterday, I was kind of a hurry and wanted a recipe with no mayo.
    I worked JUST PERFECT!!!!!!
    Thanks millions of times!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I’m so glad to hear it!!!!

  118. Rodney Bartscht Avatar
    Rodney Bartscht

    I was dining today at one of the local middle eastern restaurants and they said they use a littl mash poatao in the garlic paste.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh that’s a smart idea!

  119. Mark Avatar
    Mark

    In spite of a fair amount of experience with Lebanese restaurants, I had never experienced this garlic sauce until a meal, while traveling out of town, at Shish Palace, Allen Park, MI, so of course I want to learn how to make it. Absolutely delicious it was. It was a dip for the small round-loaf pita-style bread.

    so Thanks! I asked the owner what it was, he said he started with garlic paste, a little olive oil, etc. So starting with raw garlic might be even better.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I hope you love it Mark!!

  120. Jill Avatar
    Jill

    I just tried making this tonight. I don’t have a food processor so I used my blender. It started going great at about 1 1/2 cups of canola oil in. Then it just liquified. I did as one person suggested. I poured the mixture into a bowl and let it set for a bit. I was able to come back to it and use a spoon to remove the excess oil that formed on top. I whipped the remaining garlic mixture and it was saved! So I put it back in the blender and VERY slowly poured in the oil. Was turning out fine then a few minutes in, my blender got hot and the sauce took on a greenish tint. I don’t know what happened but I stopped and threw it away! Any possible ideas?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh dear Jill I’m so sorry this was not an instant success for you!! I know that I often do well with visuals- did you happen to watch the video of the recipe that i Link to? It could be helpful to make sure this is a success for you next time. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufDD773NQMY

  121. L Avatar
    L

    I’m wondering why the olive oil is a no no – I believe you, but I only have grapeseed and oil oil on hand. I enjoyed this sauce at a restaurant this weekend so am scoping it out to try to make it myself. I could have eaten the whole container! Yum! Thanks!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      My aunt explained that olive oil had too strong of a flavor and took away from the purity of the garlic flavor. :)

      1. BeckyKC Avatar
        BeckyKC

        I’ve read on several sites that olive oil also does not give you a fluffy consistency, it’s not just the flavor. I do believe the type of oil is important. I just now tried the recipe with a blend of coconut oil and canola. It never came together and I think that may have been one of the reasons!!

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          That’s great to know!! Thanks!

  122. John Avatar
    John

    This worked so great as a sauce. I was wondering if it could be upped to a dip of some kind. Or perhaps it has been done already? Thank you for this recipe.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I use it as a dip all the time!

  123. Neri ersilia Avatar
    Neri ersilia

    Followed your recipe to the letter…but everything liquified….what happened?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Neri – Did you add it slowly enough? Did you watch the video? It helps to see it in progress.

  124. Cheryl Avatar
    Cheryl

    Hi there! I am absolutley in love with this sauce…although when I tried to make it just now it did not thicken up? It is runny can I fix it? I really really want to be able to use this

  125. Joe Avatar
    Joe

    Hi there. What a lovely story. I am against using electric appliances for any cooking, can this be made with mortar and pestle? Thanks for the recipe!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Hi Joe – I’ve never done it with one but I bet it could. Can you report back if you try it?

  126. Carrie Avatar
    Carrie

    My batch separated and I thought it was ruined. After searching and searching, I found one person say to pour out your mixture into a separate bowl and wash and dry the processor. Then whip up an egg white (I actually did two) in the processor until it starts to firm up and then slowly re-drizzle your garlic in. It worked for me!! I’m sure this compromises the authenticity of the toum, but it’s better than losing the whole batch, right?! :)

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh my goodness that’s impressive!! It certainly is better than losing the batch! Enjoy!

      1. Tracey b Avatar
        Tracey b

        Should have read the comments before I started it! Emulsified for 15minutes and it was nothing but water :(

        I am now trying the whipped egg white and hoping for the best!

        1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
          Liz DellaCroce

          Hi Tracey – Did you watch the video? It might help to see it!! I’ve made it many times with no fail. Let me know!! I want this to work for you! It’s the BEST!!

          1. Tracey b Avatar
            Tracey b

            So here’s what happened, I poured everything in too quick, Processed it and it didn’t work.

            Then I took it all out cleaned the food processor and read to first use a whipped egg white to bind things together. Did that, didn’t work.

            Then I took it all out, let it sit so the oil came to the top and the sort of emulsified chunks sunk to the bottom. Poured the oil out. Used a whisk on the chunks and it blew up!!! It was so cool, just transformed.

            Then I put that in the food processor and VERY SLOWLY poured the remaining oil in.

            It was so GOOD and so much fun to play with food science! I also made this along with you Chicken Tawook and It was lovely!

            Picture here :)
            https://i.imgur.com/TgBZn2H.jpg

          2. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
            Liz DellaCroce

            Oh my gosh GOOD FOR YOU for staying the course!!!! Your meal looks absolutely delicious – so glad you enjoyed it!! :)

  127. Wendy Avatar
    Wendy

    My mom makes this! And of course now I do. We call it solomacha (Ukrainian word) and I use this in every recipe that calls for garlic. Mine never turns to mayo, but instead stays separated. Although it’s GREAT because I can take some of the canola oil and sautee with it. Amazing flavour! Lasts a long time. So if it doesn’t emulsify do not worry! Still great. If it turns green or black it’s your garlic. Locally grown is best, when you can get it. YUM!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      That’s a great point! Great tips Wendy!! So cool!

  128. marcooo Avatar
    marcooo

    Gotta say, I couldn’t get that consistency ur pics show. Im a bit skeptical on the canola too. Why Wouldn’t the Lebanese use olive oil?

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I had a long talk about this with my aunt – we tried it with several types of oil but ultimately olive oil is the worst choice because the flavor is too strong for the dip.

  129. Jenilla Avatar
    Jenilla

    Garlic Paste is one of my all-time favorite condiments! It’s absolutely addicting. So glad I found this recipe!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I hope you love it Jenilla!

  130. Mary Avatar
    Mary

    HOLY HOLY GRAIL!!! So my husband son and I absolutely love what we have always called garlic butter. I am so glad I can across this recipe from the chicken garlic recipe!! I am actually in the process of making Ghee right now!! Can’t wait to try this out tonight with the chicken!! THANKS SOOOO MUCH IN ADVANCE!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Oh my goodness I’m so glad you found it!! Let me know what they think!

  131. Rebekah Avatar
    Rebekah

    I did the alternating of oil and lemon juice. Sauce never got thick and came together. Feel like something is missing and too much oil. Processor was on emulsify for well over 20 mins. Bummed

    1. Rebekah Avatar
      Rebekah

      Okay, I will check it out. I have a brand new Kitchenaid food processor. I love it!!!

    2. Sarah Avatar
      Sarah

      I had the same problem as Rebekah. Then I watched the video you posted and I think I poured the oil in too quickly the first time. I tried again and poured the oil in as a thin thread like in the video and it worked like a charm. Thanks for the recipe and tips!

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Ok great I’m so glad you got it to work!! Isn’t it addictive?

  132. Jo Avatar
    Jo

    This sounds amazing, and I tried to make it. But half way through the thick mixture suddenly turned watery. I stopped adding the oil and lemon juice and just blitzed for a while, but no luck. It did get quite warm in the process, so I put it in the fridge to cool down, but still no luck in bringing it back together. Any advice?? I really want to get this right!

  133. KalynsKitchen Avatar
    KalynsKitchen

    I could eat this stuff by the spoonful! Just letting you know that I featured this recipe in my round-up of 25 Deliciously Healthy Low-Carb Recipes from September 2014. Hope a lot of my readers will click over here and try the recipe!

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I could too Kalyn!!! Thank you so much for featuring!! I’ll go check it out!

  134. Annie @ ciaochowbambina Avatar
    Annie @ ciaochowbambina

    Hi Liz,

    This looks awesome! We eat a lot of garlic in our house so I’ll be adding this to the repertoire! Thank you!

    Annie

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      I hope you love it Annie!

  135. Joanne Avatar
    Joanne

    Your Aunt Paula sounds like a sweetheart! Gotta love a woman that always has some food that she’s ready and willing to gift to you. And who can also appreciate her garlic. This sounds so good.

  136. Jess Avatar
    Jess

    I’m so excited to have seen this! My husband is a huge garlic fan and we first had this at a Tunisian restaurant with some delicious bread, like naan. I can’t wait to try it and to get to have that creamy, deliciousness again!

  137. Zolee Avatar
    Zolee

    I’m about to make this, I could eat it by the spoonful! How long will it keep good?

  138. Carol at Wild Goose Tea Avatar
    Carol at Wild Goose Tea

    I kept looking at the picture and then the recipe. You get that sauce with those ingredients. Wow. I truly believe like the French—It’s all in the sauce. So this is a
    real treasure as far as I am concerned.

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Let me know if you try it!! It really is amazing!

  139. Liz @ Floating Kitchen Avatar
    Liz @ Floating Kitchen

    Lovely story, Liz. I have an Aunt Paula – except her name is Aunt Dot – and she taught me all my Armenian cooking skills! It’s feels wonderful to be able to recreate her dishes in my kitchen (she passed on several years ago but I always think of her when I’m cooking).

    1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
      Liz DellaCroce

      Awww That’s so cool Liz!! I always think of family when I cook too. <3

  140. Gaby Avatar
    Gaby

    This sounds so amazing, I can’t wait to try it.

  141. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
    Liz DellaCroce

    I sure am!! :)

  142. Barb Melrose Avatar
    Barb Melrose

    I would be tempted to use rice bran oil instead of the canola oil since there is a lot of controversy on how healthy the canola oil is. Rice bran oil is a stable oil that doesn’t oxidize as it has its own natural vitamin E and can withstand very high temperatures without producing any carcinogens. I might also add a tablespoon or two of whey from my milk kefir and let it stand at room temperature for a few hours. I do this with my homemade mayonnaise and it prolongs the life in the refrigerator for MONTHS!!

    1. Nada Avatar
      Nada

      For me, the beauty of this paste is that it is vegan. And while I have read somewhere that it is good for one week or so, it actually keeps well for up to a month. Refrigerated, of course.

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Yes exactly!! It is vegan!

    2. Ruthann Avatar
      Ruthann

      I just bought some at a farmers market that was made with rice bran oil and it was outstanding! Will make some this weekend!

      1. Liz DellaCroce Avatar
        Liz DellaCroce

        Oh perfect!!! Enjoy!

  143. Rebecca {foodie with family} Avatar
    Rebecca {foodie with family}

    I finally catch a glimpse of “my” Aunt Paula!!! She’s beautiful! And so is this sauce. Thank you Aunt Paula! Thank you, Liz!!