Hummus - One of Our Favorite Snacks

I was first introduced to the delicious dish called hummus in college, when I dated an Iranian who often took me to Middle Eastern restaurants.  It quickly became a favorite.  Years later, I introduced my children to it and they absolutely love it.  And I mean L-O-V-E it.  We use it as a dip with carrots or pepper strips (orange, red, yellow or green!) -- really, any raw veg, with pita wedges, crackers or even tortilla chips.  My husband loves it, too.

I frequently buy it, but it's certainly cheaper and just as delicious to make it at home.  I found a great recipe on YouTube, believe it or not (great resource, people!).  To see the author make it, click here.

Hummus

Ingredients:

primary ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas (also known as garbanzo beans), rinsed (cans are typically 15 oz. or so)
• the juice of one lemon
• 1/4-1/2 cup of tahini (sesame seed paste) -- don't forget to stir it up before you measure it out!  Start with 1/4 cup and add more to taste
• 2 cloves garlic (mashed in a mortar with 1/2 tsp salt)
• 1/4-1/2 cup plain yogurt (improves the texture, so it's not lumpy - start w/ 1/4 cup then add more as needed)
• 3-4 leaves fresh mint (gives a subtle taste)

garnishes:

• 2 tbsp minced parsley (if you like it - we don't)
• ground paprika
• extra virgin olive oil

Directions:

Combine all primary ingredients in a food processor.  Blend for 2 minutes.  If the texture is stiff and lumpy, add another 1/4 cup of plain yogurt.  Blend again until smooth.  Taste.  Does it need more lemon?  More salt?  Adjust to taste.  Spread in a dish and sprinkle with parsley (if you like it) and paprika.  Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil.  Serve.

Yummy!