Toum, also known as Lebanese garlic sauce, is a delicious and versatile condiment that can be used in a variety of dishes. Traditionally, toum is made using a food processor, which helps to emulsify the ingredients and create the creamy texture. However, not everyone has a food processor at home, and that shouldn’t stop you from enjoying this flavorful sauce. In this simple guide, we will explore different methods to make toum without a food processor, using common kitchen tools.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before we delve into the different methods of making toum without a food processor, let’s start by gathering the necessary ingredients. You will need:
1. Fresh garlic cloves: Aim for about 10 cloves, depending on your taste preference and the size of the cloves.
2. Fresh lemon juice: The juice from 1-2 lemons will provide the tangy flavor and help emulsify the sauce.
3. Sunflower or vegetable oil: This will serve as the main base for the sauce. You will need around 1 cup of oil.
4. Salt: To enhance the flavors, add a pinch of salt.
Method 1: Using a Mortar and Pestle
If you don’t have a food processor, a mortar and pestle can be a great alternative to create a creamy toum. Follow these steps:
Step 1:
Begin by peeling and crushing the garlic cloves using the mortar and pestle. This will help release the flavors and make it easier to blend.
Step 2:
Once the garlic is crushed, add a pinch of salt to help break down the garlic and enhance its flavors. Continue mashing and grinding until a paste-like consistency is achieved.
Step 3:
Slowly pour the lemon juice into the garlic paste while continuing to mix. The acid in the lemon juice will aid in emulsifying the sauce.
Step 4:
Now, it’s time to add the oil. Slowly drizzle the oil into the mixture while whisking vigorously. This process may take some time, but be patient. Keep incorporating the oil until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
Step 5:
Once you’ve achieved the desired texture, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt or lemon juice according to your preference. Transfer the toum into a jar or airtight container for storage.
Method 2: Using a Blender or Immersion Blender
Another alternative for making toum without a food processor is by using a blender or immersion blender. Here’s how:
Step 1:
Peel and roughly chop the garlic cloves. This will make it easier for the blender to break down the garlic.
Step 2:
Add the chopped garlic to the blender or a tall container if using an immersion blender. Sprinkle a pinch of salt for flavor enhancement.
Step 3:
Begin blending the garlic at low speed, gradually increasing the speed as the garlic breaks down. Pause occasionally to scrape down the sides of the blender, ensuring all the garlic is evenly processed.
Step 4:
Slowly pour the lemon juice into the blender while it is still in motion. The lemon juice will help emulsify the sauce.
Step 5:
Now, it’s time to add the oil. Slowly drizzle it into the blender while blending on high speed. The sauce will start to thicken and become creamy.
Step 6:
Continue blending until you achieve the desired texture. If using an immersion blender, move it up and down to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.
Step 7:
Taste the toum and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Add more salt or lemon juice if necessary. Transfer the sauce to a jar or airtight container for storage.
Method 3: Traditional Hand Whisking
If you prefer a more traditional approach and have some arm strength to spare, you can make toum by hand whisking. Follow these steps:
Step 1:
Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves. The finer the garlic, the easier it will be to blend into a smooth sauce.
Step 2:
In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Use the back of a spoon or fork to press and mash the garlic, creating a paste-like consistency.
Step 3:
Slowly add the lemon juice to the garlic paste while continuously whisking. Whisking vigorously will help the sauce emulsify and thicken.
Step 4:
Now, it’s time to incorporate the oil. Add a few drops of oil at a time, whisking continuously until the sauce starts to thicken.
Step 5:
Continue adding the oil gradually, whisking vigorously throughout the process. It may take some time and effort, but eventually, the sauce will reach a creamy consistency.
Step 6:
Taste the toum and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add more salt or lemon juice if desired. Transfer the sauce to a jar or airtight container for storage.
Enjoying Your Homemade Toum
Congratulations! You have successfully made toum without a food processor using one of these alternative methods. Now, it’s time to enjoy your homemade garlic sauce.
Toum is incredibly versatile and can be used in various ways. It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, falafel, sandwiches, or even as a dipping sauce for fries. The creamy and garlicky flavors will enhance your dishes and leave you craving more.
Remember to store your homemade toum in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks, allowing you to enjoy it over multiple meals.
Experiment with different variations of toum by adding herbs like parsley or cilantro, or even chili flakes for some spice. Let your creativity shine and enjoy the flavors of this traditional Lebanese garlic sauce, made with love and without a food processor.