Zankou Chicken Garlic Sauce Recipe: Easy & Delicious

Have you ever been to Zankou Chicken Garlic Sauce Recipe and enjoyed its creamy deliciousness that makes their dish unforgettable? 

I have! The inimitable tang that accompanies this garlic sauce is quite strong but with a lighter punch-the perfect companion to its rotisserie chicken, scrumptious shawarma, or even crunchy fries. 

After some variations in my kitchen, I have finally unlocked its secret that is surprisingly easy and very inexpensive because most of the ingredients are probably already in your pantry. 

Let’s jump right into this amazing recipe for Zankou Chicken Garlic Sauce Recipe that will absolutely take your meals to a different level!

Zankou Chicken Garlic Sauce

Recipe Overview

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Cuisine: Lebanese
  • Course: Condiment
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Yield: About 1 cup
  • Calories per Serving: 80 (per tablespoon)

Ingredients

  • 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

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Base

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • Give the sauce a taste. Need more tang? Add a splash of lemon juice. Craving more salt? Sprinkle in a pinch.

And that’s it! Your homemade Zankou Chicken Garlic Sauce is ready to be devoured.

What is Shawarma Garlic Sauce Made Of?

Shawarma garlic sauce, or toum, is traditionally made with garlic, oil, lemon juice, and salt. This version incorporates boiled potatoes to help stabilize the mixture, creating a smooth and creamy spread that’s easier to make at home without the need for special techniques or tools.

What is Zankou Garlic Sauce Made From?

Best zankou chicken garlic sauce recipe shares similarities with traditional toum but has a uniquely rich texture, thanks to its potato-based blend.

The simple combination of garlic, lemon juice, oil, and boiled potatoes creates that unforgettable flavor and consistency.

Does Zankou Chicken Use Butter?

No, Zankou Chicken’s famous garlic sauce does not contain butter. The creamy texture comes entirely from the emulsification of oil and potatoes—a vegan-friendly process that’s perfect for everyone to enjoy.

Tips and Variations

  • Substitutions: Swap canola oil for olive oil if you prefer a more robust flavor. Keep in mind that olive oil may slightly alter the taste and texture.
  • Storage: Store your garlic sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even better on day two!
  • Make-Ahead Tip: This sauce can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
  • Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a spicy twist.

Video Tutorial

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair it with juicy roasted chicken or chicken thighs for a flavor-packed meal.
  • Spread it on warm pita bread as a dip for veggies.
  • Use it as a sandwich spread for your next shawarma wrap or Chicken Maison sandwich.
  • Serve alongside crispy fries or roasted potatoes for the ultimate dipping experience.

FAQ

What Is the Main Ingredient That Makes Zankou Chicken Garlic Sauce Creamy?

The emulsification of oil and boiled potatoes is the main ingredient that provides the creamy texture to Zankou Chicken Garlic Sauce.

Can I Use Olive Oil Instead of Canola Oil in This Recipe?

Of course, you might want to try a more intense-flavored olive oil, but expect it to find its way into the condiment’s flavor and texture.

How Long Can I Store Zankou Chicken Garlic Sauce?

The sauce can be stored for up to 5 days in an airtight container inside the refrigerator. It will taste even better after the second day.

What Can I Serve Zankou Chicken Garlic Sauce With?

This garlic sauce with roasted chicken, chicken or beef shawarma wraps, pita bread, veggies, fries and/ or roasted potatoes is complemented nicely.

Conclusion

There you have it: a homemade Zankou Chicken Garlic Sauce recipe that’s as delicious as the original! It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. I’d love to hear how your sauce turned out! Leave a comment below or tag me on social media with your creations. Happy cooking!

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.

Zankou Chicken Garlic Sauce Recipe

The Zankou Chicken garlic sauce is a Middle Eastern condiment comprising of only a handful- garlic, oil, lemon juice and breadcrumbs emulsified with potatoes.
This condiment, famous for the intense garlic zing and luscious mouth feel, can double up as a dip for grilled chicken, shawarma, falafel or just pure crunchy fresh veggies.
This sauce is very simple to create at home and adds that zing to anything it sizzles for; it comes distinctly with mouthwatering offerings of garlic. Ideal for garlic lovers!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Condiment
Cuisine Lebanese
Calories 80 kcal

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

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Your Base

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • Give the sauce a taste. Need more tang? Add a splash of lemon juice. Craving more salt? Sprinkle in a pinch.
  • 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.
Keyword Zankou Chicken Garlic Sauce Recipe

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