Hummus With Tahini Dip

Hummus is a popular dish that originated in the Middle East. It is a spread, dip, or paste made of chickpeas and tahini that is usually eaten with pita or any other flat bread, often during breakfast. It has a texture and consistency similar with peanut butter. This Middle Eastern favorite is widely used in countries like Syria, Israel, Turkey, Greece, Cyprus and Lebanon. Its popularity is rooted not only from its delicious taste but also from its great nutritional value. Humus is loaded with nutrients that can contribute to a healthy lifestyle. Include this in your diet by using it as spread on sandwiches and wraps, as dressing to your salad or pasta, as dip for raw vegetables, or as side dish for main courses.

Hummus With Tahini Dip

Ingredients

400g can chickpeas, drained, rinsed
juice of 2 lemons
2 large garlic cloves, crushed
½ cup (140g) tahini paste (see tip)
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
¼ teaspoon paprika
pita bread, torn, to serve(optional)
Method

1. Hummus is traditionally eaten as a dip with pita bread, and it is also a great unsaturated fat alternative to mayonnaise, butter or margarine when you're making sandwiches.
2. 10 Place chickpeas, lemon juice and 2 tablespoons water in a food processor. Process until a smooth paste forms, adding more water if necessary. Add garlic, tahini and salt to taste. Pulse until just combined.
3. 20 Spoon hummus into a bowl and make a slight hollow in centre. Pour in olive oil and sprinkle with paprika. Serve with pita bread.



Tips:

Tahini paste is a Middle Eastern pantry essential. It is the foundation for many Middle Eastern recipes like hummus and baba ghanoush.

Tahini can be prepared homemade or purchased. It is called tahini or tahina, depending on the region. 

Ingredients - makes 4 cups

• 5 cups sesame seeds
• 1 1/2 cups olive oil or vegetable oil
  

Method

1. Roast sesame seeds for 5-10 minutes, shaking the seeds frequently. Do not allow to brown. Cool for 20 minutes.
2. Pour sesame seeds into food processor and add oil. Blend for 2 minutes. Check for consistency. The goal is a thick, yet pourable texture. Add more oil and blend until desired consistency.
   

How to store tahini
Tahini should be stored in the refrigerator in a tightly closed container. It will keep for up to 3 months.