LuAnn's Basic Hummus

Savory Hummus, made from garbanzos, is a traditional Mediterranean dish thought to have originated in Egypt thousands of years ago.

Yield: 3 1/2 cups

Ingredients

Hummus

• 2 (15-ounce) cans garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
• Water (enough to process the garbanzos; add slowly, don't add too much)
• 2 tablespoons tahini (reduce or omit to lower fat)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic (6 cloves)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1/8 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper (optional)

Garnishes (optional)

• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley sprigs or chopped parsley

Accompaniments (optional)

• Assorted whole grain crackers
• Assorted fresh vegetable relishes
• Toasted pita wedges

Instructions

1. In a blender or food processor, combine all the basic hummus ingredients, then process or blend until smooth, adding 2 to 4 tablespoons of water, or just enough to bring hummus to desired consistency.
2. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.
3. To serve, drizzle with olive oil and garnish with parsley springs or chopped parsley, if desired.

Notes

To serve this popular party spread or dip, simply place the Hummus in a bowl; drizzle lightly with olive oil if desired; and surround with assorted whole grain crackers, fresh vegetables, and/or toasted pita wedges. Hummus is also delicious as a sandwich spread or filling with whole grain bread, tortilla wraps, or pita pockets. Accompany with lettuce, tomato, onions and any other vegetables desired.

Although humbly named “Basic Hummus”, I have overheard this particular recipe declared “the best Hummus ever eaten”!

Attribution

Recipe by LuAnn Bermeo, author of Amazing Meals I and II, a two-volume collection of family-approved, plant-based recipes; adapted from Amazing Meals, volume II.