Creamy Tahini Hummus

• 2 cans (16 oz) garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup light olive oil
• 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 large garlic clove, minced
• 1 Tbsp celery leaves
• 1/2 Tbsp sweet onion, minced
• 2 Tbsp lime juice (or lemon)
• 1 1/2 Tbsp tahini
• 1 tsp salt (more or less to taste)
• dash black pepper
• dash red pepper flakes (optional)

In food processor, put all ingredients.  Turn on and let process until smooth, stopping several times to scrape the sides.  Taste and add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.

Consistency of this hummus will be fairly smooth, thanks to the tahini (which is just a ground sesame seed paste).  However, tahini does have a slight bitter flavor, so don’t overdo it.  If you’re concerned, start with less and add more until the flavor and texture is right.  You can also omit the tahini; add about 2 Tablespoons more olive oil if you do. You can also add a Tablespoon of roasted sweet peppers.  This recipe is just your ‘jumping off’ point, so be creative.

Even though tahini is expensive, making this hummus at home saves a lot of money compared to the store bought variety.