Hummus

Homemade hummus is easy to make so long as you have tahini paste (from sesame seeds) in the fridge. This is from about.com.

This is a great recipe. I used dried garbanzo beans that I soaked overnight and then pressure cooked for 45 minutes.

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

1-2 cloves garlic, crushed (make sure not too large so you aren't overpowered)

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons olive oil

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.

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

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

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

Note: I have also just mixed the oil into the recipe and it works well.