Hummous1 is a lemony chick pea2 dip of Middle Eastern origin. It is a highly sought-after element of the vegetarian packed lunch. It can be eaten as a dip with fresh vegetables and bits of pita, or as a spread on sandwiches.3

There are two known ways to acquire hummous: you can go to a restaurant and order it, or your can make it yourself - here is a recipe for making it yourself.

• 2 x 15oz cans of chick peas
• 3 tablespoons of tahini4
• 1-2 cloves of garlic
• Juice of half a lemon
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin seed

1. Place all ingredients into a food processor with steel blade installed, and whirl until mixture achieves the consistency of thick paste. Vary amounts of tahini and olive oil to achieve desired creaminess.

Some variations include:

• Add some cilantro leaves toward the end of process.

• Add chopped, roasted red pepper.

• Before processing, add a few black peppercorns.

Refrigerate leftovers.