Homemade Hummus

Hummus is one of my favorite foods - it's delicious, simple, and really versatile.  But let's be honest: store-bought hummus is just not the best.  So here's a simple and delicious recipe for making hummus at home!

What you need:
1 can of chickpeas (drained + rinsed) or 1 1/2 cups cooked - to cook, soak the dried chickpeas in water overnight.  Drain the chickpeas in the morning and put them in a pot with fresh water.  Bring the chickpeas to a boil and then lower the heat to a hard simmer, letting them cook for about an hour or until they're soft.  Save the liquid you boil them in!
4 tablespoons tahini
1/4 cup of water (or the liquid you boiled the chickpeas in)
1 small clove of garlic, minced
Juice from 1-2 lemons
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1 1/2 teaspoons zathar (zathar is a popular spice in Middle Eastern dishes - visit your local Middle Eastern market to find it!)
1/2 teaspoon salt

How to make it:
Put all your ingredients in a food processor and begin to blend.  If your hummus is too thick, add more water.  Taste frequently and add more lemon juice, salt, or spices as needed.  Voila, your hummus is complete!  Serve alone or topped with a light drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of zathar.  Enjoy your hummus as a dip for veggies or pita chips or try it one of these ways:

• In a pita pocket with veggies (I like cucumbers, bean sprouts, and avocado)
• On top of a salad instead of dressing
• On top of toast or a bagel (it's also delicious with mashed avocado!)