Hummus Me Tahini

Directions

Wash the chick-peas, then soak overnight with the baking soda in cold water to cover.

The following day, drain and wash the chick-peas, then cover with fresh water.

Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer until tender, 1½ to 2 hours.

Drain and push through sieve or food mill, discarding the coarse fibers remaining in the sieve.

Meanwhile, put the tahini in a small bowl and beat it with the ⅓ cup water until dissolved, using a whisk or fork.

Beating briskly with the whisk, add the tahini mixture, a teaspoonful at a time, to the chick-peas, alternating with the lemon juice and olive oil.

When all has been added, crush the garlic over the mixture and sprinkle with optional spices, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon chopped parsley.

Beat for another minute, then taste for seasonings and chill overnight - if possible.

Serve cold, sprinkled with additional chopped parsley.