Deeply Dippy

This weekend is going to be great. According to the weather people, the weather should be nice, and to top it off the Springboks are playing in the RWC semi-final. Things just could not get any better.

On weekends I seldom (okay never) make real food. Everything is easy and perfect for eating while sitting and watching TV. One of my favorite snack foods are dips and spreads.

Here are two which I will be enjoying this weekend.

Humus

This is so easy that I find it hard to believe anyone would bother to buy it.

1 Can Chickpeas - drained (you can reserve this liquid to substitute some of the oil)
Juice of 1 Lemon
1 Tablespoon Tahini
2 Crushed Garlic cloves
Salt and Black Pepper
Olive Oil - Good quality Extra Virgin

Blend the first 5 ingredients in a food processor. Blend it to the texture you like. Some people like it a little coarse, I like mine smooth. With the blade running, pour in the olive oil, again this you must judge for yourself depending on the consistency you like. If you don't want to add too much oil, use some of the chickpea water.
This is exactly how easy it is. The great thing is you can taste it and change the mix to suit your tastes. Add more lemon, garlic or tahini and you have the best humus money can buy.

The second dip takes more time, but is every bit as easy.

Aubergine (Brinjal) Dip

2 Aubergines
2 Crushed Garlic Cloves
Juice of 1 Lemon
Pinch of ground Cumin
Salt and Pepper to Taste
1 Tablespoon of Full cream Greek Yogurt (Very optional Extra)

Roast the Aubergines in the oven (or over the coals) until they are all wrinkled and very soft.
Scoop the flesh into the processor. Don't worry if you get a little of the skin caught in, especially if you roasted them over the coals.
Add the other ingredients, except the yogurt and process on pulse until you have a smooth mix. I suggested pulse because this is not a dip that should be very smooth like baby food.
If you want a creamy finish you can add the yogurt but this is not necessary.
Serve with toasted pita breads to really WoW your guests at your next braai (BBQ).

I hope you all have a most exciting weekend. Come Monday I will be happy to tell you that the Springboks will be in the final next Saturday. Bring it home boys.