Hummus with Tahini

Hummus with tahini (hummus bi tahini) is an Authentic Lebanese Recipe. Anyone familiar with Middle Eastern food recognizes this rich sauce as a favorite. It always appears with meza and is becoming popular at western-style cocktail parties. Dip it up with pieces of Arabic bread, or spread it on crackers like peanut butter, or serve it as a sauce with lahm mashwi, kibbeh or kafta — it is good in many ways. Tahini is an important part of the hummus recipe and cannot be substituted. However, it can be omitted.

Ingredients:

1 16 oz can of chickpeas or garbanzo beans
1/4 cup liquid from can of chickpeas
3-5 tablespoons lemon juice (depending on taste)
1 1/2 tablespoons tahini
2-3 cloves garlic, crushed
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil

Preparation:

1. Drain chickpeas and set aside liquid from can. Combine remaining ingredients in blender or food processor. Add 1/4 cup of liquid from chickpeas. Blend for 3-5 minutes on low until thoroughly mixed and smooth.

2. Place in serving bowl, and create a shallow well in the center of the hummus.

3. Add a small amount (1-2 tablespoons) of olive oil in the well. Garnish with parsley and red pepper (optional).

4. Serve immediately with fresh, warm or toasted pita bread, or cover and refrigerate.

VariationsFor a spicier hummus, add a sliced red chile or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Storing Hummus
Hummus can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be kept in the freezer for up to one month. Add a little olive oil if it appears to be too dry.