The Captain and I are embarking on a new lifestyle of healthier eating, although we will still indulge in those sinful foods that we love. And I will still post those sinful recipes . . . but I'm looking for healthier alternatives and will share them as I discover them.
I have recently discovered hummus! It is a healthier alternative for snacking since we love potato chips with sour cream dip. We have found a selection of crackers at the grocery store that are low in fat and sodium and quite tasty. Great with hummus!
19-oz. can chickpeas, or 1 cup dried chickpeas that have been soaked and cooked until very tender
1/2 cup tahini (sesame-seed paste)
1 clove garlic
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
Kosher salt to taste
Olive oil for drizzling
Cayenne for sprinkling
If using canned chickpeas, drain them, reserving the liquid, and rinse them. If using dried, cooked chickpeas, drain them and reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid.
Purée all the ingredients in a food processor until very smooth, adding the reserved liquid as needed. You should have a medium-thick paste (if it's still too thick, thin it more with water).
Season with salt. Transfer the hummus to a shallow bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with cayenne. Serve with pita bread or raw vegetables.
From Fine Cooking CWF SIP, pp. 59
January 1, 2004