Hibesh

Ingredients

• 1 cup good quality tahini (200 ml)
• Freshly squeezed juice of 1 medium lemon (approx. 50 ml)
• 3 cloves garlic, finely grated or minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon hot red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon fine salt
• 3-4 tablespoons warm water (to adjust consistency)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for garnish)

Calories are an editor’s estimate per serving, not a lab measurement.

Method

1. 1

   Add tahini and freshly squeezed lemon juice to a wide mixing bowl.

2. 2

   Whisk vigorously; the tahini will react with the lemon juice and stiffen into a dense paste.

3. 3

   Incorporate minced garlic, ground cumin, sweet paprika, red pepper flakes, and salt.

4. 4

   Gradually drizzle in warm water while whisking continuously until a smooth, spreadable consistency is reached.

5. 5

   Spread the mixture evenly over a shallow serving plate, creating gentle ridges with the back of a spoon.

6. 6

   Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the top and dust with extra cumin or paprika before serving.

Note. Do not panic when tahini seizes and thickens after adding lemon juice; whisking in warm water one tablespoon at a time will quickly yield a silky finish.