Hummus

Hummus is a classic Middle-Eastern dish and it’s easy to understand why it’s now enjoyed all over the world. I used to buy hummus from the store but I haven’t found any lately so I’ve been working on my own recipe and now I’m having it all the time. love using hummus as a dip when snacking on veggies like carrots and celery, sweet potato wedges and as a sauce with my main meals. It can even be used as a perfect spread in wraps or sandwiches! It’s incredibly easy, much cheaper than store-bought ones and very delicious! I hope that you enjoy it as much as I do!

[ingredients title=”Ingredients”]

• 400g of chickpeas (boil chickpeas for 5 minutes, soak them for 1 hour then simmer until tender for about 2 hours)
• 2 tsp tahini (recipe below)
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 1 tsp crushed sea salt
• 3 tbsp quality extra virgin olive oil (plus extra for drizzling)
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Paprika (optional)
• Coriander or parsley leaves (optional)

[/ingredients]

Tahini Recipe:

[ingredients title=”Ingredients”]

• 140g sesame seeds (hulled)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Pinch of salt

[/ingredients] [directions title=”Directions”]

1. Toast your sesame seeds by heating them on a wide, dry saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the seeds become lightly coloured but not brown (about 3 to 5 minutes). Transfer your toasted seeds to a baking sheet or large plate to cool completely.
2. once cooled, add the sesame seeds into a food processor then process until a crumbly paste forms, (about 1 minute). Add the olive oil and salt then process for a further 2 to 3 minutes, stopping to scrape the bottom and sides of the food processor.
3. The tahini’s consistency should be smooth and pourable. You may may process for another minute or add an additional tablespoon of oil if you need to.
4. Store tahini covered in the refrigerator for one month.

[/directions]

Hummus Directions:

[directions title=”Directions”]

1. Rinse the chickpeas in cold water and tip into the food processor.
2. Add the tahini, crushed garlic, salt and lemon juice. Turn on the food processor and slowly pour in the oil while it runs.
3. When the mixture is fully combined and smooth, pour it into a serving dish. Drizzle with some more extra virgin olive oil and decorate with paprika and finely chopped coriander or parsley leaves to garnish.
4. Enjoy!

[/directions]