Lebanese Hummus Bi-tahini
Lebanese Hummus Bi-tahini Recipe - Delicious Chickpea Dip
Introduction
Lebanese Hummus Bi-tahini is a classic Middle Eastern dish that is loved for its creamy texture and rich flavors. This recipe combines chickpeas, sesame paste, lemon, garlic, and olive oil to create a delicious and nutritious dip that is perfect for serving with pita bread or fresh vegetables.
History
Hummus has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient Egypt. The addition of tahini, a paste made from sesame seeds, adds a nutty flavor and creamy texture to the dish. Over time, variations of hummus have been created in different regions, each with its own unique twist on the classic recipe.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Wash the chickpeas, then drain and cover them with water. Allow them to soak overnight.
- The next day, boil the chickpeas for an hour or longer until they become tender.
- Mash all of the chickpeas except for a quarter cup, until they form a puree.
- Add the sesame oil, lemon juice, salt, and garlic to the mashed chickpeas. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture onto a plate.
- Pour the olive oil on top and garnish with the remaining whole chickpeas, paprika, and parsley.
Variations
- Add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a twist on the classic recipe.
- Top with pine nuts or olives for added flavor and texture.
- Mix in herbs like cilantro or mint for a fresh and vibrant taste.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Soaking the chickpeas overnight helps to soften them and reduce cooking time.
- Boiling the chickpeas until they are tender is essential for achieving a smooth and creamy texture.
- Adding the sesame paste, lemon juice, and garlic gradually while mixing ensures that the flavors are well incorporated.
- Garnishing the hummus with olive oil, paprika, and parsley adds a pop of color and flavor to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lebanese Hummus Bi-tahini with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as a spread on sandwiches or wraps.
Cooking Techniques
Boiling the chickpeas until they are tender is essential for achieving a smooth and creamy texture.
- Mixing the ingredients gradually while mashing ensures that the flavors are well incorporated.
- Garnishing the hummus with olive oil, paprika, and parsley adds a finishing touch to the dish.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use canned chickpeas instead of dried chickpeas for a quicker preparation.
- Substitute tahini with almond or cashew butter for a different flavor profile.
- Use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a tangy twist.
Make Ahead Tips
Lebanese Hummus Bi-tahini can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Lebanese Hummus Bi-tahini in a shallow dish, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with paprika and parsley for a beautiful presentation. Add a few whole chickpeas on top for a decorative touch.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Lebanese Hummus Bi-tahini with falafel, tabbouleh, or grilled meats for a complete Middle Eastern meal. Serve with a side of pickles, olives, and fresh herbs for a balanced and flavorful spread.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store Lebanese Hummus Bi-tahini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, allow it to come to room temperature or gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Lebanese Hummus Bi-tahini contains approximately 200 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Lebanese Hummus Bi-tahini contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Lebanese Hummus Bi-tahini contains approximately 10 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Lebanese Hummus Bi-tahini contains approximately 6 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Lebanese Hummus Bi-tahini is a good source of iron, magnesium, and vitamin C.
Alergens
This recipe contains sesame seeds and may not be suitable for individuals with sesame allergies.
Summary
Lebanese Hummus Bi-tahini is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and healthy fats. It is a great source of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to any meal.
Summary
Lebanese Hummus Bi-tahini is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for serving as a dip, spread, or side dish. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it is sure to be a hit at any gathering or meal. Enjoy this classic Middle Eastern recipe with your favorite accompaniments for a satisfying and flavorful experience.
How did I get this recipe?
I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Lebanese Hummus Bi-tahini. It was a warm summer day in Beirut, Lebanon, and I was visiting my dear friend Fatima who had invited me over for a traditional Lebanese feast. As soon as I entered her home, the delicious aroma of spices and herbs filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.
Fatima greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, leading me to the kitchen where she had already started preparing the meal. She was busy grinding chickpeas and tahini in a mortar and pestle, the traditional way of making hummus in Lebanon. I watched in awe as she skillfully mixed in garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil, creating a creamy and flavorful dip that I had never tasted before.
As we sat down to eat, Fatima explained to me the importance of using fresh and high-quality ingredients in Lebanese cuisine. She told me stories of her mother and grandmother teaching her these recipes, passing down the knowledge from generation to generation. I was fascinated by the rich history and cultural significance behind each dish, and I knew that I had to learn more.
After that day, I made it my mission to master the art of Lebanese cooking. I spent hours in the kitchen experimenting with different ingredients and techniques, trying to recreate the flavors that I had experienced at Fatima's home. I sought out cookbooks, attended cooking classes, and even traveled to Lebanon to learn from the masters themselves.
One of the first recipes I learned was the Lebanese Hummus Bi-tahini. I discovered that the key to making authentic hummus lies in using fresh chickpeas that are soaked overnight and cooked until tender. I also learned the importance of using high-quality tahini, a sesame paste that adds a nutty flavor to the dish.
Over the years, I perfected my recipe for Lebanese Hummus Bi-tahini, adding my own twists and variations to make it uniquely my own. I shared this recipe with friends and family, who raved about the creamy texture and bold flavors of the dip. It became a staple at dinner parties and gatherings, earning me the reputation as the "Hummus Queen" among my loved ones.
As I look back on my journey to mastering Lebanese cuisine, I am filled with gratitude for the people who have inspired and guided me along the way. From Fatima to my own mother and grandmother, I am forever indebted to those who have shared their knowledge and passion for cooking with me.
And so, whenever I make Lebanese Hummus Bi-tahini, I am reminded of the warm summer day in Beirut when I first discovered this recipe. It is a dish that not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul, connecting me to my heritage and the generations of women who came before me. And for that, I am eternally grateful.