Hummus is a traditional Middle Eastern dip or spread made from cooked and mashed chickpeas, tahini (sesame paste), olive oil, salt, and lemon juice. It has been enjoyed for thousands of years and is a staple in many cultures throughout the Middle East and Mediterranean. Hummus is a nutritious, healthy, and delicious snack or appetizer, perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients for homemade hummus:
• 2 cans of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup of tahini
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon of cumin
• 1 teaspoon of salt

Ingredients for homemade pita bread:
• 1/2 cup of warm water
• 1 teaspoon of active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon of honey
• 1 teaspoon of olive oil
• 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of salt

Instructions for Hummus:

  1. Add chickpeas, tahini, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin and salt to a food processor and blend until smooth.
  2. Taste and adjust seasonings to your liking.
  3. Serve with pita bread or vegetable sticks.

Instructions for Pita Bread:

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast and honey. Let sit for 5 minutes.
  2. Add olive oil, flour and salt and mix until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes.
  4. Place the dough in a greased bowl and cover with a damp cloth. Let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
  5. Preheat the oven to 500°F.
  6. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
  7. Roll each piece into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.
  8. Place the pitas on baking sheets and bake for 5 minutes.
  9. Flip the pitas and bake for another 5 minutes, until golden and crisp.