Zankou Chicken's Garlic Paste Recipe

Zankou Chicken's garlic paste is a culinary delight that adds an aromatic and flavorful twist to a variety of dishes. A unique combination of mashed potatoes, garlic cloves, salt, lemon juice, and canola oil, this paste works wonders as a dip or a spread. The process is relatively simple, but the result is a rich and creamy garlic paste that is hard to resist.

zankou chicken garlic paste pasta recipe

Photos of Zankou Chicken’s Garlic Paste Recipe

The ingredients for the Zankou Chicken's garlic paste are quite straightforward and easily available. However, instant mashed potatoes might not be a regular pantry item. They can be found in the dried food or instant meal section of most supermarkets. Also, consider using fresh garlic for the best flavor.

Ingredients for Zankou Chicken's Garlic Paste

Instant mashed potatoes: Used as the base of the paste, it provides a smooth and creamy texture.

Water: Helps in achieving the desired consistency of the paste.

Garlic cloves: The star ingredient that infuses the paste with its distinct flavor.

Salt: Helps in enhancing the flavors of other ingredients.

Lemon Juice: Adds a tangy flavor that balances out the richness of the paste.

Canola oil: Helps in emulsifying the paste and contributes to its smooth texture.

One reader, Brenda Hostetler says:

The Zankou Chicken's garlic paste recipe is a game-changer! The blend of garlic, lemon juice, and canola oil creates a rich and tangy flavor that elevates any dish. It's incredibly easy to make and adds a burst of deliciousness to every meal. I can't get enough of it!

Brenda Hostetler

Techniques Required for Making Zankou Chicken's Garlic Paste

How to prepare the garlic paste: This involves mixing the instant mashed potatoes with water to achieve a thick consistency, peeling the garlic cloves, and pureeing them with lemon juice and salt in a food processor. The canola oil is then streamed in until the mixture resembles the consistency of aioli. Finally, the mashed potatoes are added while running the food processor until the mixture is fully incorporated.

How to serve the garlic paste: The garlic paste can be served with bread as a flavorful spread or dip. It can also be used as a condiment for grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

How To Make Zankou Chicken’s Garlic Paste

Recreate this tasteful garlic paste in the comfort of your home! It’s as garlicky as Zankou Chicken’s, making it the perfect dip for any meal.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupinstant mashed potatoesplain flavor or potato flakes
½cupwaterroom temperature
15garlic cloves
½tbspsalt
⅓cuplemon juice
½cupcanola oil

Instructions

Mix the instant mashed potatoes with the water, making sure to get a thick consistency.
Peel the garlic cloves and put them in the food processor.
Add the lemon juice and salt, then puree until finely chopped.
Stream in the canola oil until it resembles the consistency of aoili.
Add the mashed potatoes whole running the food processor until the mixture is incorporated.
Transfer mixed to a covered container.
Serve with bread, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 2051.41kcal
Fat: 220.35g
Saturated Fat: 16.51g
Trans Fat: 0.92g
Monounsaturated Fat: 138.39g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 62.24g
Carbohydrates: 29.42g
Fiber: 1.75g
Sugar: 6.56g
Protein: 2.57g
Sodium: 1792.36mg
Calcium: 53.99mg
Potassium: 469.79mg
Iron: 0.59mg
Vitamin A: 26.02µg
Vitamin C: 97.94mg

Pro Tip for Perfecting Garlic Paste Consistency

When incorporating the mashed potatoes into the garlic mixture, it's important to add them gradually while the food processor is running. This ensures a smooth and well-blended paste. If added all at once, the mixture may become lumpy and uneven. Also, when streaming in the canola oil, do it slowly to allow it to emulsify properly with the other ingredients, creating a creamy and rich texture.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Garlic Paste

Prep ahead: Prepare ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process and save time during meal preparation.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that require minimal pots and pans to reduce cleanup time and effort.

Batch cooking: Cook large quantities of food at once and store the extras for future meals to save time on cooking throughout the week.

Knife skills: Hone your knife skills to efficiently chop, slice, and dice ingredients, saving valuable time in the kitchen.

Organized workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and tidy to minimize time spent searching for utensils and ingredients while cooking.

Efficient multitasking: Plan and execute tasks in parallel to maximize efficiency and reduce overall cooking time.

Use kitchen gadgets: Utilize time-saving kitchen gadgets such as food processors, blenders, and slow cookers to expedite meal preparation.

Substitute Ingredients For Zankou Chicken’s Garlic Paste Recipe

instant mashed potatoes - Substitute with cooked and mashed cauliflower: Cooked and mashed cauliflower can provide a similar creamy texture and mild flavor to instant mashed potatoes, making it a suitable substitute for this recipe.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic cloves, providing a concentrated garlic flavor without the need for chopping or mincing.
canola oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used as a healthier substitute for canola oil, providing a similar fat content and flavor profile in the recipe.

Creative Ways to Present Garlic Paste

Elevate the garlic paste: Present the garlic paste in a small, elegant ramekin or a decorative dish to showcase its vibrant color and inviting aroma.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a few freshly chopped parsley leaves or chives on top of the garlic paste for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Accompany with artisan bread: Serve the garlic paste alongside warm slices of freshly baked baguette or pita bread to add a delightful textural contrast.
Incorporate a drizzle of olive oil: A delicate drizzle of high-quality olive oil over the garlic paste adds a luxurious touch and enhances its rich flavor.
Present with lemon wedges: Arrange a few small wedges of lemon on the side of the dish to provide a zesty, citrusy element that complements the garlic paste.
Utilize elegant serving spoons: Choose stylish and polished serving spoons to offer the garlic paste, enhancing the overall presentation and elevating the dining experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Garlic Paste

Food processor: A versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, pureeing, and mixing ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A container used for combining ingredients and mixing them thoroughly.
Garlic press: A tool designed to crush and mince garlic cloves with ease.
Measuring cup: Used for accurately measuring liquid and dry ingredients.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and incorporating air into ingredients.
Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for scraping, spreading, and flipping ingredients.
Container: A vessel used for storing and preserving food items.

Storing and Freezing Homemade Garlic Paste

Store the garlic paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The lemon juice and salt will help preserve the paste and prevent it from spoiling too quickly.
For longer storage, freeze the garlic paste in ice cube trays or small freezer-safe containers. Once frozen, transfer the cubes or portions to a freezer bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
When ready to use the frozen garlic paste, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Do not microwave the paste, as this may alter its texture and flavor.
If the garlic paste separates or loses some of its consistency after thawing, give it a quick stir or pulse in the food processor to reincorporate the ingredients.
Label the container or freezer bag with the date of preparation to keep track of how long the garlic paste has been stored. For best quality, use the frozen paste within 3-4 months.

How To Reheat Leftover Garlic Paste

To reheat leftover zankou chicken's garlic paste, start by removing it from the refrigerator and letting it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will help the paste to reheat more evenly and prevent it from becoming too hot or cold in certain spots.
Once the garlic paste has reached room temperature, you can reheat it using one of the following methods:
- Microwave: Transfer the desired amount of garlic paste to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent the paste from drying out. Microwave on high for 15-20 seconds at a time, stirring in between, until the paste is heated through and reaches your desired temperature.
- Stovetop: Place the desired amount of garlic paste in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir the paste constantly to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan or burning. If the paste seems too thick, you can add a small amount of water or lemon juice to thin it out. Heat the paste until it reaches your desired temperature, then remove from heat.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the desired amount of garlic paste to an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Place the dish in the oven and heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the paste is heated through and reaches your desired temperature.
Regardless of which reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the garlic paste well before serving to ensure that it is evenly heated and has a smooth consistency.
If you find that the reheated garlic paste is too thick or dry, you can add a small amount of water, lemon juice, or olive oil to help loosen it up and restore its original texture.
Once the garlic paste is reheated and ready to serve, you can enjoy it as a dip for bread, vegetables, or meat, or use it as a spread for sandwiches or wraps.

Interesting Trivia About Garlic Paste

Zankou Chicken's Garlic Paste is a popular condiment in Middle Eastern cuisine, known for its bold and zesty flavor. It is often served as a side with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a dip for bread. The unique addition of instant mashed potatoes in this recipe helps to create a creamy and smooth texture, while the combination of garlic, lemon juice, and canola oil provides a rich and tangy taste. This versatile garlic paste can be a delicious addition to various dishes and adds a burst of flavor to any meal.

Is Making Garlic Paste at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this garlic paste recipe is quite high, as the ingredients are affordable and readily available. The use of garlic and lemon juice is cost-effective, and the addition of instant mashed potatoes helps to stretch the recipe further. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $8-10. Overall, this recipe offers a great balance of flavor and affordability, making it a solid choice for a household seeking a delicious and budget-friendly condiment. I would rate this recipe an 8 for its cost-effectiveness and flavor.

Is Garlic Paste Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Zankou Chicken's garlic paste recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High in fat: The recipe uses a significant amount of canola oil, which is high in calories and fat.
High in sodium: The salt content may be excessive for those watching their sodium intake.
Lack of nutrients: The recipe does not include any vegetables or other nutrient-dense ingredients.

However, the recipe does have some redeeming qualities:

Garlic: This ingredient is known for its potential health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.
Lemon juice: The citrus provides vitamin C and can help balance the flavors in the dish.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of canola oil used, or replace it with a healthier alternative like olive oil or avocado oil.
Decrease the salt content and let individuals add more to taste if needed.
Incorporate nutrient-dense ingredients such as roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs to boost the nutritional value and add depth to the flavors.
Serve the garlic paste with a variety of fresh vegetables for dipping, encouraging a more balanced and wholesome snack or appetizer.
Experiment with using Greek yogurt or silken tofu as a base for the paste, reducing the reliance on oil and increasing the protein content.

By making these adjustments, you can transform this tasty garlic paste into a more nutritious and well-rounded dish that still satisfies your cravings for bold flavors.

Editor's Opinion on This Garlic Paste Recipe

This recipe for Zankou Chicken's garlic paste is a unique and creative take on a classic dish. The use of instant mashed potatoes adds a clever twist, providing a creamy texture and subtle flavor. The combination of garlic, lemon juice, and canola oil creates a bold and tangy taste that perfectly complements the dish. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful and innovative approach to a beloved favorite.

Enhance Your Zankou Chicken’s Garlic Paste Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Vegetables: Try serving the garlic paste with a side of colorful and flavorful roasted vegetables, adding a healthy and vibrant touch to your meal.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Pair the garlic paste with some succulent grilled chicken skewers for a delicious and protein-packed meal.

Fruit Salad: For a refreshing and light side, consider serving a fresh fruit salad alongside the garlic paste to balance out the richness of the dish.

Creamy Soup: A creamy and comforting soup would complement the garlic paste perfectly, creating a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.

Similar Recipes to Zankou Chicken's Garlic Paste

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with tender beef, potatoes, and carrots, it's a comforting meal that will warm you up from the inside out.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta: This light and refreshing pasta dish is bursting with flavor. The combination of zesty lemon and savory garlic perfectly complements the tender shrimp and al dente pasta.

Caramelized Onion and Goat Cheese Tart: This elegant tart is a showstopper for any dinner party. The sweet caramelized onions and tangy goat cheese pair perfectly with the flaky puff pastry crust, creating a dish that's both beautiful and delicious.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Zankou Chicken's Garlic Paste Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. The creamy and flavorful filling pairs perfectly with the earthy mushrooms, creating a delightful appetizer that will leave your guests wanting more.

Bruschetta: Toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and balsamic glaze. The combination of juicy tomatoes, aromatic basil, and tangy balsamic creates a burst of flavor with every bite, making it the perfect appetizer to kick off any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a velvety smooth and decadent chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The rich and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Apple Pie: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a classic apple pie, with a flaky golden crust and a sweet cinnamon-spiced filling. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.

Why trust this Zankou Chicken’s Garlic Paste Recipe:

This recipe for zankou chicken's garlic paste is a trusted and authentic rendition of the famous dish. The use of garlic cloves and lemon juice ensures a bold and zesty flavor, while the incorporation of canola oil creates a creamy and rich texture. The addition of instant mashed potatoes provides a unique twist, adding body and depth to the paste. With a perfect balance of ingredients and a method that guarantees a smooth consistency, this recipe promises to deliver the true essence of zankou chicken's garlic paste to your table.

Share your thoughts on Zankou Chicken's Garlic Paste Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to share!

FAQ:

What is the purpose of using instant mashed potatoes in the garlic paste recipe?

Instant mashed potatoes are used to provide a creamy and thick texture to the garlic paste, creating a smooth and spreadable consistency.

Can I use fresh mashed potatoes instead of instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, you can use fresh mashed potatoes, but the instant mashed potatoes provide a convenient and consistent texture to the garlic paste.

How long can the garlic paste be stored?

The garlic paste can be stored in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Can I use a different type of oil instead of canola oil?

Yes, you can use other neutral-flavored oils such as vegetable or sunflower oil as a substitute for canola oil.

Is there a way to adjust the garlic flavor in the paste?

Yes, you can adjust the amount of garlic cloves to your preference to control the intensity of the garlic flavor in the paste.