Written by Jill Ettinger
Hummus has been a staple throughout Mediterranean cultures for millennia. Light, creamy and full of flavor, this raw hummus recipe omits the chickpeas and focuses instead on the nutty and super rich flavor of the sesame seed tahini. It is perfect as a dip or spread, or as a dressing for making tangy, ranchy-flavored dehydrated kale chips.
Serves 4-6
Ingredients
¼ to ½ cup olive oil
¾ cup sesame tahini (make sure to get the raw, not roasted kind)
½ cup lemon juice (best from fresh lemons)
½ cup brown or black sesame seeds
1 teaspoon mineral salt
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon cumin powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
optional: ¼ cup green or yellow zucchini, ¼ cup sundried tomato (reconstituted in water), ¼ cup chopped kalamata olives
Slices of bell peppers, carrots, celery or crackers
Equipment need: food processor or powerful blender
Method
Measure out all ingredients into your blender or food processor (except sliced veggies and crackers). If your tahini has separated a lot in the jar, you may need to mix it together a bit with a fork before adding to your blender. Once all ingredients are in, hit the start button! The mixture should come out thick and creamy. Depending on the consistency, add more olive oil as needed. You can also thin out a bit with water. If you make it too thin, add more tahini.
A word about garlic: I hate the stuff. (We are actually mortal enemies! And, mark my words, it will rue the day it ever crossed my palate!) Most people think hummus is meant to be excessively heavy on the vampire killer. I recommend trying the spread first without it, but definitely feel free to add a clove or two if you must -- just don't invite me over! Enjoy!
Keep in touch with Jill on Twitter @jillettinger
Image: whitneyinchicago