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Black Soybean Hummus

4.0

(5)

Black soybeans are a terrific stand-in for chickpeas in this robust hummus. Because of soybeans' nuttiness and creamy texture, no olive oil and very little tahini (sesame-seed paste) are required to give the dip its traditionally rich flavor. I like to give the hummus some heat by adding a bit of the North African hot pepper paste called harissa.  You'll find harissa  and tahini at most international groceries; tahini is also available at health-food stores.

Serve the hummus in a small bowl, garnished with a sprinkling of sweet paprika and a scattering of oil-cured olives. Set a basket of pita triangles on the side.

I often double the recipe so I can make a lunch of hummus and thick strips of roasted red pepper stuffed into a pita pocket.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes about 1 1/4 cups

Ingredients

1 clove garlic, peeled
1 1/2 cups cooked black soybeans or 1 can (15 ounces) organic black soybeans, drained (reserve liquid)
2 to 4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 to 3 tablespoons soybean cooking or canning liquid or water
1 1/2 tablespoons tahini (sesame-seed paste)
1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 to 1 teaspoon harissa  or 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional)
Sweet paprika and oil-cured olives, for garnish

Preparation

  1. Mince the garlic in a food processor. Add the black soybeans and the minimum amounts of the remaining ingredients. Process to a fairly smooth paste, scraping down the sides of the work bowl as needed. Taste and blend in more of any ingredients required to give a smooth consistency and to suit your taste.

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