Hummus

Hummus is a chickpea spread that can be slathered on anything from a burger or baked potato to the traditional hot pita bread. Made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and garlic, it originated in Egypt and is popular throughout the Middle East. 

As an appetizer and dip, hummus is scooped with flatbread, such as pita. It is also served as part of a meze or as an accompaniment to falafel, grilled chicken, fish or eggplant. Garnishes include chopped tomato, cucumber, coriander, parsley, caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, whole chickpeas, olive oil, hard-boiled eggs, paprika, sumac, ful, olives, pickles and pine nuts. Outside the Middle East, it is sometimes served with tortilla chips or crackers.