I come from a family that is Mediterranean on my Dad’s side. My Grandmother was from a small village in Lebanon and my Grandfather was from Greece.
My Dad and I:
Growing up I was exposed to all sorts of unique and interesting foods like dolmas, baklava and kibbeh and unfortunately I had less then zero appreciation for my family’s culture and cuisine.
Both my grandparents have passed away so my Dad, sister and I have learned to make and reveal in our own traditions. I dream of one day visiting Hasroun, Lebanon (also known as The Rose of Mount Lebanon) the village where my Grandma’s family was from to learn more about my history. But until that day comes, I have hummus.
I know every foodie has their own hummus recipe. I added black olives to give mine true Mediterranean flair.
Black Olive Hummus
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups chickpeas
1/4 cup tahini
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup black olives, pitted
1/4 cup water
juice of 1/2 lemon
salt to taste
Directions
1. Combine all ingredients in food processor and process until relatively combined (I made mine a bit chunky)
2. Serve with crudités and crackers
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
First of all, that is one good looking father daughter pair.
Second of all – I love Lebanese food. I could eat it all day every day. Olives + hummus? Together at last? I’m so down for this!
Thank you Danielle (and Gillian). Amazing how all these many years later we experience an appreciation for our cultural backgrounds. Fortunately, you are discovering your roots a lot quicker than I did.
Your grandfather that you never knew or met because he passed away at such a young age and Grandma Felip were a great team in the kitchen and in their restaurant. I guess this is where we get our cooking skills from.
My goal is to set foot in my Father’s village of Florina in Greece which I wish I had done sooner. In the meantime, I will continue to make moussaka and baklava in addition to the great vegetarian recipes you have shared.