Garlic lovers, rejoice! If you haven’t yet discovered toum, get ready to meet your new favorite Mediterranean staple. This creamy, fluffy garlic spread is a powerhouse of flavor, made simply with fresh garlic, oil, lemon juice, and a touch of salt. It’s smooth, bold, and irresistibly delicious—perfect for elevating your meals in ways you never imagined.
What is Toum?
Toum (pronounced “toom”) is a traditional Lebanese garlic sauce with a rich, airy texture and a strong yet balanced garlic kick. Unlike aioli, which typically includes eggs, toum is completely plant-based, making it a great vegan-friendly alternative to creamy condiments.
Conventional Uses of Toum
Toum has long been a beloved component of Mediterranean cuisine, bringing its signature garlicky goodness to a variety of dishes. Here are some of its most popular and conventional uses:
1. The Perfect Dipping Sauce
Whether paired with warm pita bread, crispy fries, or fresh veggies, toum is an unbeatable dipping companion. Its creamy consistency makes every bite more flavorful and satisfying.
2. A Classic Shawarma Companion
No authentic shawarma experience is complete without toum. Spread generously on pita wraps with grilled chicken, beef, or veggies, and enjoy the bold, garlicky punch that enhances every bite.
3. Elevating Grilled Meats & Seafood
Toum isn’t just for dipping—it also works wonders as a marinade or finishing sauce. Brush it onto grilled meats, seafood, or roasted vegetables for a burst of fresh garlic flavor that pairs beautifully with smoky, charred textures.
4. A Flavor Booster for Roasted Potatoes
If you love crispy roasted potatoes, try tossing them with a spoonful of toum after baking. The garlic-infused goodness melts into the crispy edges, adding depth and richness to this classic side dish.
5. A Spread for Sandwiches & Burgers
Move over mayo—toum is here to transform your sandwiches and burgers. Spread it on toasted bread, wraps, or buns for a creamy, garlicky layer that takes any sandwich to the next level.
6. A Secret Ingredient in Salad Dressings
Looking for a way to infuse bold flavor into your salads? Blend a bit of toum into your dressing for a zesty, garlicky twist that pairs well with greens, grains, and fresh veggies.
Ready to bring this garlicky goodness into your kitchen? Find Tal’s Toum at your favorite local retailers or order online today!