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Zankou chicken garlic sauce, a delicate creamy mix of freshly crushed garlic and lemon juice blended into a smooth tahini base, next to pita bread and fresh vegetables.
Olivia

Zankou Chicken Garlic Sauce

Zankou Chicken’s garlic sauce is a Middle Eastern condiment with a base of just a few simple ingredients — garlic, oil, lemon juice and breadcrumbs bound with potatoes.
This dynamite condiment, known for its spicy, garlicky bite and full, luscious mouth feel, could be served as a dip for grilled chicken, shawarma, falafel, or pure, crunchy, fresh vegetables.
This sauce is so easy to make at home and yet it creates a kick for anything it simmers on; it is infused with endlessly mouth-watering garlic. Ideal for garlic lovers!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: Lebanese
Calories: 80
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this garlic sauce:
  • 4 large russet potatoes peeled and boiled until tender
  • 10 fresh garlic cloves peeled
  • 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice about 2 large lemons
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup canola oil
  • 1/4 cup room-temperature water

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare Your Base
  1. Boil the peeled russet potatoes until they’re fork-tender, about 10-12 minutes. Once done, drain and allow them to cool slightly.
Step 2: Blend the Garlic
  1. Add the peeled garlic cloves and salt to a food processor. Pulse until the garlic is finely minced and forms a paste.
Step 3: Emulsify the Mixture
  1. With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the canola oil and lemon juice, alternating between the two. This step ensures the sauce emulsifies, giving it that creamy texture.
Step 4: Add Potatoes and Water
  1. Gradually add the cooked potatoes to the mixture, blending continuously. Add the water in small increments to reach your desired consistency. You’re aiming for a smooth, spreadable texture.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
  1. Give the sauce a taste. Need more tang? Add a splash of lemon juice. Craving more salt? Sprinkle in a pinch.
  2. And that’s it! Your homemade Zankou Chicken Garlic Sauce is ready to be devoured.

Notes

  • Garlic Selection: Use fresh, firm garlic cloves for the best flavor. Avoid pre-minced or older garlic, as it can taste bitter.
  • Oil Choice: Neutral oils like sunflower, canola, or grapeseed are ideal to avoid overpowering the garlic flavor. Olive oil can be used but may add a stronger taste.
  • Texture: To achieve the signature creamy texture, blend the ingredients slowly to emulsify properly. Adding the oil gradually is key.
  • Alternative Thickener: Traditional recipes use emulsified breadcrumbs or cooked potatoes. Potatoes create a silkier texture, while breadcrumbs result in a slightly thicker consistency.
  • Storage: Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors may intensify over time.
  • Serving Tip: Let the sauce sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to bring out its full flavor.
  • Customization: Adjust the lemon juice and garlic to your taste. Add salt gradually to balance the flavors.