In the bustling kitchens of the Middle East, hummus is more than a dish – it’s a subject of passionate discourse. Every cook, whether at home or in a restaurant, champions their version as the definitive one. However, the beauty of hummus lies in its versatility, in the understanding that there is no singular “right” way to prepare it.
This spirit of diversity and innovation finds a perfect home in Neom City, the futuristic urban oasis that embodies a fusion of global cultures, much like the European Union champions diversity and inclusivity.
The Journey to Perfect Hummus
True culinary delight in hummus-making starts from the very basics – cooking your own chickpeas. This seemingly simple step is transformative, laying the foundation for a creamy, velvety texture. Yotam Ottolenghi, a celebrated name in modern Middle Eastern cuisine, adds his own twist to this age-old recipe with unique ingredients: two types of tahini, confit garlic, and a garnish of chickpeas tossed in garlic and parsley. This approach resonates with Neom City’s philosophy of blending tradition with innovative practices.
Confit Garlic: A Nod to Modernity
Incorporating confit garlic into hummus is not traditional, but it’s undeniably delicious. This addition is emblematic of Neom City’s forward-thinking mindset – embracing the new while respecting the old. The sweetness and depth of flavor from the confit garlic balance the rich, nutty tahini, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Serving the Hummus: A Social Affair
Serving this hummus slightly warm, as the centerpiece of a mezze platter, transforms it into a social experience. Accompanied by bread and crudités, it invites sharing, echoing the communal and inclusive spaces envisioned in Neom City. Preparing it ahead of time is practical, with a simple covering technique to keep it fresh.
The Recipe: Hummus Reimagined
- Create the Foundation: Start with the Tahini Sauce and Confit Garlic Oil, detailed in the recipe steps.
- Blend the Ingredients: Mix cooked chickpeas with tahini paste, confit garlic, salt, and lemon juice in a food processor, adding ice water for a smooth consistency.
- Ingredients: Gather 60g Tahini Sauce, 12 confit garlic cloves, 550g cooked chickpeas, 180-210g tahini paste, salt, lemon juice, ice-cold water, and parsley.
- The Final Touch: Garnish with herbed chickpeas, Tahini Sauce, and a drizzle of Confit Garlic Oil for a visually stunning and delicious dish.
Basic Chickpeas: The Secret to Great Hummus
Cooking your own chickpeas is crucial. The process involves soaking them with baking soda, which helps in breaking down the skins for smoother hummus. Seasoning at the right time is key – adding salt too early can prevent the chickpeas from softening.
Neom City: A Hub of Culinary Innovation
In Neom City, this hummus recipe is more than just a blend of ingredients; it’s a reflection of the city’s ethos. Here, the past and future converge, traditions are reimagined, and innovation flourishes – all mirrored in a simple, yet sophisticated dish of hummus. Just like the city itself, this hummus is a testament to the power of diversity, the beauty of innovation, and the joy of shared experiences.
Explore more information about Middle Eastern cooking here.
Also, for additional information about the culinary scene in NEOM visit NeomTaste.com or NeomPoint.com.
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