In Israel we eat as a main dish with a salad and pickles on the side. It's the beyond easy to make but it requires a food processor (even a small crappy one will do). It's full of protein. You can use canned chickpeas to save time.
2cupsdried chickpeas - or canned chickpeas*, rinsed
1teaspoonbaking soda
7cupswater
½teaspoonground cumin
¾cuptahini
2garlic clove, peeled
4tablespoonslemon juice
1tablespoonolive oil
1teaspoonsalt
Olive oil – for garnish
Chopped parsley leaves – for garnish, optional
Instructions
Put the chickpeas with baking soda in a large bowl and cover with water and, let them soak overnight (minimum twelve hours).
Drain and rinse the chickpeas and put them in a medium saucepan with water double their volume. Put the saucepan over high heat and bring to a boil. Skim the foam and any skins that float on the surface and discard. Add the cumin and lower down the heat. Cook for 1 - 2 hours, depending on the type or freshness. The chickpeas should be very tender – easy to mush with your fingers. Add water to the pan if necessary – don't let the bottom of the saucepan burn, like I usually do! Remove from heat and let it cool. Before you drain them ladle a cup of the cooking water and set aside.
Drain the chickpeas and transfer them to a food processor. Add the tahini, lemon juice, garlic and salt and 2 tablespoons of the cooking water and process until you get a smooth paste. If the hummus is too thick, add a tablespoon or more the cooking liquid (or water). Palestinians put an ice cube, they claim that it makes the hummus velvety. The hummus should be smooth and stiff enough hold its shape. Taste and add salt or lemon juice if necessary.
To serve: spread the hummus on a plate. Drizzle olive oil, sprinkle paprika and garnish with parsley. If you not serving right away, refrigerate up to three days.
Notes
* skip step 1 and 2. Rinse the chickpeas and put them with the rest of the ingredients. Add water instead of cooking liquid.