Mike's Homemade Hummus

SYRACUSE, N.Y., March 3, 2009 -- Syracuse University senior Mike Eassa said this hummus recipe runs in the family. As a child, he always looked forward to the family Christmas party, because his great-aunt would make this dish.

"One year, my sister asked for the recipe, and when I moved into my apartment she gave me a food processor with the recipe, and the ingredients to make hummus," he said.

Now, it's an easy, quick snack to make that lasts for a while in the fridge, he said, and can be eaten with anything from fresh veggies to pretzels or pita.

"I've yet to meet someone who doesn't like it," he said.

Mike's Homemade Hummus

Serves 4

Ingredients

1 can of chickpeas (drained, but save the liquid)

3 tbsp. tahini paste (can be purchased as a specialty store)

1/4-1/2 cup lemon juice

1 clove garlic

Salt and pepper to taste

Cumin to taste

Olive oil

Instructions

Blend the chickpeas, tahini paste, lemon and garlic together in a food processor.

Use the chickpea liquid, or olive oil, to thin mixture to desired consistency.

Add salt, pepper and cumin to taste.

Serve with fresh vegetables (like carrots, cucumbers or celery), fresh pita, pretzels, crackers or chips.