The traditional accompaniment for this mid-eastern dish is pita bread cut into triangles but you can also use your favorite raw vegetable.

4 cloves garlic
1 (1 lb. 4 oz.) can chick peas, well drained
1 c. tahini (sesame seed paste) or creamy peanut butter
1/4 c. lemon juice (fresh squeezed preferred)
1/3 c. water
3/4 tsp. salt or to taste
1/4 tsp. black pepper or to taste

Place garlic, chick peas, tahini, lemon juice, water, salt and pepper in food processor or in an electric blender and puree for 1 to 2 minutes or until smooth or creamy.

Transfer to a serving bowl, cover with plastic food wrap and refrigerate for several hours. Before serving let stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Taste and add more salt or pepper if desired. Makes 2 cups.