Hummus
For a classic presentation of this Middle Eastern dish, spread hummus on a rimmed plate. Make a design with a spatula, then drizzle olive oil over it. Or simply garnish hummus with parsley. Pocket bread makes a fine accompaniment.
15 oz can garbanzos
1/4 cup tahini, OR 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds and 2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 large clove garlic, cut in thirds
1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt and pepper
Optional garnishes: Olive oil or chopped parsley
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Drain garbanzos, reserving liquid.
Put garbanzos into a blender or food processor. Add tahini (or toasted sesame seeds and olive oil), lemon juice, garlic, cumin and 1/4 cup of the garbanzo liquid.
Whirl, adding more garbanzo liquid if needed, until mixture is smooth and the consistency of heavy batter. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Garnish as suggested above. Makes 12 servings, 2 tablespoons per serving.
