In a mediterranean restaurant, a small plate of hummus as an appetizer can be as much as $6! But you can make hummus that's just as delicious, if not better, at home for less than half that price.
Drain a can of garbanzo beans (at my local market, it's $0.59), and rinse the beans under cold water. Throw them into a food processor with a clove of garlic, a few pinches of salt, and freshly squeezed juice from half a lemon. As you pulse your food processor, drizzle a few tablespoons of olive oil into the mix to help with the puree. Hummus also contains tahini, a Mediterranean sesame seed paste that adds a subtle, nutty flavor. Here is where I cheat - I add a teeny tiny dollop of peanut butter (less than a teaspoon) instead.
Hummus can be made lighter by using less olive oil, or leaving it out completely. Just add a little more lemon juice or even water to help with the consistency. Hummus can also be made with different flavors by adding roasted garlic, roasted peppers, olives, toasted pine nuts or other herbs.
Of course, making hummus at home costs less, but it's so much fun to go to Gaby's Mediterranean in West LA late at night with your friends, relax on the covered patio, and take a few drags off the hookah between bites of hummus on pita.
Gaby's Mediterranean
10445 Venice Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 90034
310.559.1801
www.gabysmediterranean.com
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