Better-than-Store-Bought: Hummus

And lots cheaper!


Now that the Super Bowl is over it is time to find another reason to throw a party. And here is a great snack/dip for it.


Hummus is a popular/trendy Middle Eastern food dip or spread made from cooked, mashed chickpeas (garbanzo beans), blended with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and garlic. 






Hummus: the 5-minute Chickpea Dip


1 15-ounce can chickpeas or garbanzo beans
1 clove garlic
1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for serving
2 T fresh lemon juice
2 T tahini (sesame seed paste, optional)
1 tsp ground cumin
Kosher salt (regular should work)
1/4 tsp paprika


Drain the chickpeas, reserving liquid. In a food processor, puree the chickpeas and garlic with the 1/4 cup olive oil, lemon juice, tahini (if using), cumin and 3/4 tsp salt until smooth and creamy. Add 1 to 2 Tablespoons reserved bean liquid as necessary to achieve the desired consistency.


You can adjust the measurements as desired. Some prefer more garlic.


Transfer to a bowl. Drizzle with additional olive oil and sprinkle with the paprika before serving.


Serve with toasted chunks torn from pita pockets, chips, crackers or similar, as desired.


'til we eat again,
          Simply, Gail