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            * HOMMOUS BI TAHINI  *
            *  (Chick Pea Dip)   *
            *      Lebennon      *
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Makes about 3 cups of dip.

            **  Ingredients  **

1 1/2 cups dried chick peas
1/2   cup tahini (sesame seed paste)
1/2   cup lemon juice
1     tablespoon salt
2     teaspoons garlic powder

            **  Procedure  **

1) Carefully inspect and rinse chick peas. Remove any pebbles or 
off-colour (green or dark brown) peas. Soak the peas in lots of water 
overnight.

2) Gently boil the peas for 2 to 3 hours. Then allow to cool.

3) Put the peas, covered in the remaining water, in the refrigerator for 
another day. This is necessary to allow the peas to absorb more water 
before making the hommous.

4) Drain the peas. In a food processor, blend all of the ingredients to a 
smooth paste for about 15 to 20 minutes. Add more water (about 1/4 cup) to 
obtain the desired consistency.

5) Store the hommous in the refrigerator. Serve with fresh cut vegetables 
and whole wheat pita bread. Good for appetisers, light meals, and parties!

            **  Variations  **

Adjust the amount garlic powder and salt for your taste. Serve in a 
shallow bowl or plate garnished with parsley sprigs, lemon wedges, and 
olives. Cut the pita bread into narrow wedges and heat them in the oven 
just before serving.

Contributed by: Walter Brown, ab684