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.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 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

Preparation:

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 flavours 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.