Mediterranean
Hummus bi Tahini
A traditional snack from the Middle East. It can be made as
spicy as desired by adjusting the amount of red pepper.
- 1
lb (450 g) chick peas, cooked (reserve 1/2 of cooking water)
- lemon
juice (from 1 - 2 lemons)
- 4
garlic cloves, minced
- 1
tsp salt
- 6
oz (170 g) sesame paste (tahini)
- 1
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- cayenne pepper to taste
- 1 - 2 tsp mint, dried
Put
garlic, salt and half the lemon juice into blender and blend briefly.
Blend
a handful of chickpeas, add more at intervals. As the paste thickens add
more lemon juice, olive oil and the reserved water.
When all chick peas have been reduced to a creamy texture add
sesame paste, cayenne and mint and blend until uniform. Adjust flavors with
cayenne, mint and lemon juice.
Spoon into a dish. Pour a little olive oil over top and
sprinkle with pepper. Serve with pita bread as a snack or dip.