Cafe Hummus Halva

Café Hummus Halva is a unique fusion dish that brings together two beloved Middle Eastern treats: hummus and halva. With a rich history rooted in Middle Eastern cuisine, these dishes have been loved for centuries. Hummus, a creamy blend of chickpeas and tahini, has its origins in the Levant, while halva, a sweet confections made from sesame seeds or flour, is enjoyed throughout the Middle East and beyond. Our recipe combines these two to create a delectable and satisfying snack that's perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of chickpeas (soaked overnight)
• 1/2 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup sesame seeds
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

Preparing the Hummus

1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas. Place them in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer for about 1-1.5 hours until soft.
2. Drain the cooked chickpeas and allow them to cool slightly.
3. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Process until smooth.
4. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while the processor is running to achieve a creamy consistency.

Preparing the Halva

1. Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan until golden and fragrant. Allow to cool.
2. Grind the sesame seeds in a food processor until they form a smooth paste.
3. In a saucepan, combine the sesame paste with honey, cardamom, and cinnamon. Heat gently and stir until the mixture is well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a mold and allow it to cool and set.

Combining the Hummus and Halva

1. Mix portions of the prepared hummus with small chunks of the set halva for a harmonious balance of sweet and savory flavors.
2. Serve the combined dish at room temperature with pita bread or fresh veggies.

Cooking Time

Preparation and cooking time for this recipe is approximately 2 hours, including the boiling of chickpeas and setting of halva.

How to Enjoy

Café Hummus Halva is best enjoyed as a shared appetizer. Pair it with a selection of olives and herbal teas for an authentic Mediterranean experience. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging in a snack, this unique dish is sure to delight your taste buds and those of your guests!