Hummus Algerienne

Hummus Algerienne and dishes like it are some of the first meals I ever learned how to cook for myself, which is a good thing. Good in that I never really went through the ramen noodle phase that so many young people in busy societies endure before learning how to really cook or bake. So as you might expect, this dish is quick and easy. It is also quite delicious, and you can add to it as you like.

Quick or slow stewed hummus like this is normally served with couscous, but I topped mine over organic yellow corn grits served with salted, red wine vinegar cucumber slices. Yes, the pictured dish is a true testament to my overall culinary heritage.

Note: There are an array of dishes in Algeria and throughout the Maghreb that could easily be called 'Hummus Algerienne'. This is just one of the many!

Hummus Algerienne for 2

1 Can Garbanzos (drained)*

1/3 Cup Scallion Whites (sliced)

4-5 Large Cloves Garlic (chopped)

5 Tbsp. Tomato Pulp

1 Tsp. Cumin (fresh ground)

3/4 Tsp. Paprika

1/4 Tsp. Onion Powder

1/8 Tsp. Turmeric

1 Small Bay Leaf

1/4 Tsp. Salt

2-3 Hefty Pinches Red/Cayenne Pepper or 1/2 Tsp. Harissa

1 Cup Water

*Make sure to use a canned garbanzos that are fully cooked/not parboiled.

In a sauté pan, bring about 3/4 tbsp. of olive oil to medium heat. Once hot, place the sliced scallion whites in the oil and allow to cook for about a minute. Then add the garlic and let sizzle for 30 seconds stirring if needed to avoid burn. Pour in the garbanzo beans and sprinkle with the onion powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and red pepper. Stir and allow the spices to toast a bit before stirring again (20 sec). Add the tomato, bay leaf, and water. Bring to a boil, stir, put the lid on at an angle, and bring the heat to low. Allow to simmer for about 4-5 min. Add the turmeric and immediately remove from the heat.

Salt and black pepper to taste. Serve with lemon and cilantro.

p.s. In Arabic, the term 'hummus' does not necessarily describe a dip made with chick peas. It often simply refers to the actual chick pea a.k.a garbanzo bean itself!