Hummus with Tahini

To Americans this is perhaps the best known middle eastern dish.  It is generally served as an appetizer and is often placed on the table at middle eastern restaurants, along with wedged pita bread, the way rolls and butter are in western restaurants.  A piece of red onion (optional) is placed in a wedge of pita bread and the hummus is scooped up like chips and dip.  Hmmm...so good!

In a food processor, puree ½ of the chick peas with the remaining ingredients. Add the remaining chick peas and blend until the mixture is pureed but slightly course. If a smoother blend is preferred simply add additional yogurt while processing until the desired consistency is achieved. Chill and garnish with chives and olive oil. Serve with sliced Bermuda onion and pita bread.

Use this recipe as a starter and tinker from there.  I use three cloves of garlic to begin with. If, after testing the Hummus in the processor, I want a stronger garlic flavor I add another clove and puree a bit longer. Ditto for salt and lemon.