A new Favorite

Okay, in all honesty I am not big on food trends I think they tend to get out of hand where a home cook ends up in the kitchen with a bunch of ingredients that no one really likes but they were cool on that TV show, or an article couldn't say enough about them. Living in the real world where a grocery budget doesn't leave much wiggle room for things like imported foie gras, I like recipes that most people might have the ingredients on hand. Thus, over the last week after being asked to create a menu for a themed Bethlehem party I decided to give the cool dip a go in my own food processor to help stay within budget. Man am I so glad that I did. I found out that Taihini is much cheaper made in your own home as well so here is how you do it.
Next time you are at the market go to the Asian section and buy some bulk sesame seeds for the tahini- ie. sesame seed paste. I know it may sound weird but it makes the hummus have a nutty flavor that is fabulous. Grab a bottle of sesame seed oil while you're there this is great stuff to make your Asian recipes taste more authentic and makes a fun twist on roasted veggies.
tahini is just
1/4 cup sesame seeds (toasted if you would like a nuttier flavor)
1 T of water
1 t sesame seed oil
1 pinch kosher salt
put all ingredients in food processor and let it run until it creates a smooth paste.
Remove paste to condiment container and store all but 1 Tablespoon in the fridge.
For hummus
Put reserved paste
1 15 oz can garbanzo beans drained and rinsed
2 T Lemon Juice
2 T Olive oil
1/2 t salt
1/4 t white pepper (optional)
2 cloves minced garlic
and any additional herbs that you have on hand fresh or dried are fine. Remember herbs like tarragon are very potent. I like a bit of mint or cilantro personally. 1t of anything you like should do the trick and up to 1 T fresh herbs minced.
Turn on blender and let run. Intermittently take spatula or spoon and scrape sides to get a well mixed dip and there you go. That $8 a tub dip is yours for pennies on the dollar and it tastes SO much better than the other stuff. Enjoy with anything you might typically dip in a savory sauce. Get creative, and just wait for the bowl to empty- it doesn't take long. Big plus is it is good for you, so less guilt during the holidays never hurt anyone.
Smile and savor
Ms Brownie