Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Hummus....Just the Basics

Today is one of those days I'm just not meant to sleep. I'm not entirely sure what is happening in the apartments around me, but there is a ridiculous amount of hammering and drilling happening. Work tonight will be a real bitch....

Since I'm not sleeping, I decided to whip up a batch of hummus. This is a very basic recipe that can have almost anything added to it. For instance, stir in chopped basil or roasted red pepper to add some color and extra flavor. I typically eat this with fresh veggies (you can see my snack in the picture!), but it's also good with pita or flatbread. I've even used it as sauce on a Mediterranean-style pizza.

Tip: To roast such a small amount of garlic, I don't bother with heating the oven. My faster method is to toss the garlic cloves (with the skin on!) in a small skillet over med heat. Cover the pan, and give the garlic about 5 minutes on each side to thoroughly roast.

I may be working on little to no sleep tonight, but at least I have my 2:00am snack all set to go!


Ingredients:
1 can (15.5oz) chickpeas, drained/rinsed
3 tbs tahini
1/4 c extra virgin olive oil
zest and juice from 1 lemon, or 2 tbs vinegar of choice
3 cloves garlic, roasted and peeled
1/2 tsp cumin
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
additional olive oil, water
salt/pepper to taste

Directions:
In food processor, puree beans, tahini, 1/4 cup of olive oil, 1/4 cup of water, lemon zest, juice, garlic, cumin, and cayenne to a medium-fine texture. Add about half a teaspoon each of salt and pepper to start.

While blending on medium speed, slowly add equal parts oil and water until paste smooths to desired consistency.

Transfer to a bowl, add salt and pepper to taste, and serve. Makes about 2 cups.

3 comments:

  1. again..... the chick pea..... something i've been afraid of in the past..... had i known it was the main ingredient in hummus when i first tried hummus i probably would never have tried hummus.......... such is life....... ever tried to make babaghanoush? love it....... you're so brave........ if i started blending up chick peas in the kitchen my child would be gagging for a week................................... hope that snack tided you over...... and that you're sleeping more (((doubtful)) but hopeful right?

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  2. Mmmmm....baba ghanoush was my first eggplant dish! Yummy....!

    I really feel I've lucked out that my girls are adventurous with their taste buds. I don't know whether to blame nature or nurture, because I've always been ready to try anything a couple of times despite the fact that I grew up in a TV dinner sort of home. Hummus really is a wonderful snack, though!

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  3. Oh yes, and the sleep thing...well, I'm supposed to be asleep right now....

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