Hummus

Some of my friends came over to my house for a potluck party last weekend. I didn't want to serve chips and salsa (the regular appetizer at any party) this time.

I had been thinking of trying to make hummus at home for a very long time and finally I made it last weekend. It turned out very good and my friends enjoyed it.

I also made pita chips at home. Nothing fancy...just brought ready made pita breads, cut them into pieces and baked them.

Here is the recipe for Hummus

1 Cup Dried Chikpeas, Soaked in 4 Cups of Water Overnight
1/2 Cups Water, (to Cook the Chickpeas)
1 Teaspoon Baking Soda
3/4 Cup Homemade Tahini
Salt to taste
3 Teaspoon Lemon Juice
4 Cloves Garlic
1/3 Cup Ice Chilled Water
A Pinch Paprika for garnishing
Olive oil, to Serve

Method:

Drain the chickpeas. Pressure cook with 1/2 cups water and 1 teaspoon baking soda for 3 whistles. The chickpeas should be soft and should break easily when pinched, but should not be mushy. Drain and set aside to cool.

Add the chickpeas into a food processor bowl. Grind into fine paste. Now add the Tahini, garlic cloves, salt and lemon juice. Slowly drizzle the ice water while grinding the mixture into a thick and smooth paste. Adjust the quantity of water per your preference. Cover with a plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes minimum.

Take out of the refrigerator around 15-20 minutes before serving. To serve, spread the hummus in a plate, pour a spoonful of olive oil and sprinkle paprika powder. Serve with pita chips.

For Pita Chips:Buy ready made pita breads from any store. Cut them into small pieces and bake them at 300 degrees F for 4-5 minutes or until crispy.

The next Mediterranean dish I want to try to make is tabbouleh (also Tabbouleh, or Tabouli); A salad made with Bulgar wheat, parsley, mint, tomatoes, onion, lemon etc etc. If you have tried to make it at home, please provide your recipe.

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