Fattet Hummus Chickpeas and Yogurt is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that blends creamy yogurt, tender chickpeas, crispy toasted pita bread, and a rich garlic and tahini sauce. This hearty dish is known for its contrast of textures and comforting flavors, making it a popular choice for breakfast or brunch, especially during Ramadan or festive gatherings. The warm chickpeas and yogurt are perfectly seasoned, and the toasted pita adds a delightful crunch. It’s an easy, satisfying meal that’s both light and full of flavor.
Table of Contents
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked chickpeas | 2 cups |
| Plain yogurt | 2 cups |
| Tahini | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Salt | To taste |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Pita bread (toasted or fried) | 2-3 pieces |
| Pine nuts or almonds (optional) | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | For garnish |
| Paprika | For garnish |
Method of Preparation:
- Prepare the Chickpeas:
- If using canned chickpeas, drain and rinse them thoroughly. You can also cook dried chickpeas until tender if you prefer a fresher taste. Heat the chickpeas in a small pot with a pinch of salt and cumin.
- Make the Yogurt Sauce:
- In a bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the seasoning to taste. The sauce should be smooth and creamy.
- Toast the Pita Bread:
- Tear the pita bread into small bite-sized pieces. You can either toast them in the oven until crispy or fry them in a little olive oil until golden. Set aside.
- Assemble the Fattet Hummus:
- In a serving dish, layer the toasted pita bread at the bottom.
- Pour the warm chickpeas over the pita, spreading them evenly.
- Drizzle the yogurt sauce generously over the chickpeas.
- Finish with Garnishes:
- Heat a little olive oil in a small pan and toast pine nuts or almonds until golden (optional). Sprinkle them on top of the yogurt.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, a sprinkle of paprika, and a final drizzle of olive oil for an extra layer of flavor.
Instructions for Presentation and Decoration:
- Presentation: Serve Fattet Hummus in a deep, large dish to allow the layers of pita, chickpeas, and yogurt to come together. The contrast of the crispy pita bread with the creamy yogurt and chickpeas is visually appealing.
- Decoration: Garnish with a handful of toasted nuts and fresh parsley. A light sprinkle of paprika adds color, while a drizzle of olive oil gives the dish a beautiful finish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I make Fattet Hummus ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chickpeas and yogurt sauce in advance. However, it’s best to toast the pita bread just before serving to keep it crunchy.
Can I use Greek yogurt for this recipe?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be used, but it’s thicker than regular yogurt. You may want to thin it with a little water or lemon juice to achieve the right consistency.
Can I add meat to this dish?
Absolutely! Some variations of Fattet Hummus include minced lamb or beef sautéed with spices. You can add this as a layer on top of the chickpeas for extra richness.
Is Fattet Hummus served hot or cold?
Fattet Hummus is usually served warm. The chickpeas are heated, and the yogurt sauce is at room temperature, creating a balanced temperature contrast.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can use plant-based yogurt instead of dairy yogurt to make this dish vegan. Ensure that the bread and other ingredients are also vegan-friendly.
Conclusion:
Fattet Hummus (Chickpeas and Yogurt) is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together the essential elements of Middle Eastern cuisine—rich yogurt, wholesome chickpeas, and crunchy pita bread. This dish is perfect for sharing and can be adapted to your taste preferences by adding extra spices, herbs, or even some sautéed meat. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast, lunch, or part of a larger meal, Fattet Hummus is a delightful and satisfying dish. The combination of creamy and crunchy textures makes it irresistible, while the bright flavors of lemon and garlic give it a refreshing lift.