Hummus is a creamy puree of chickpeas and tahini (sesame seed paste) seasoned with lemon juice and garlic, and is a popular spread and dip in Greece and throughout the Middle East.

　　Ingredients:

　　Cloves garlic—roughly chopped

　　¼ cup lemon juice

　　¼ cup water

　　14 oz (400g) canned chickpeas (garbanzo beans) - rinsed and drained

　　½ cup tahini

　　1 teaspoon sea salt

　　 Method

　　1. Place all ingredients in a food processor or blender and process until smooth, scraping the sides occasionally.

　　Variations: If you like a spicier hummus, add a small red chilli (chopped) or a pinch of cayenne pepper, or try a little cumin for a more exotic variation.

　　Tip: Prepare extra quantities of hummus—it can be refrigerated, covered, for up to 1 week and frozen for up to 3 months.