Similar in flavor to ginger, Grains of Paradise is pungent and peppery.  Although mostly used in North and West African cuisine, it’s a perfect counterpoint to the creamy, earthy chickpea.

Cumin Ground, Grains of Paradise

1 15 ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed well
1 garlic clove
1/2 cup sesame tahini
1 tablespoon Grains of Paradise, ground in a coffee or pepper grinder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup warm water
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice 

Place the chickpeas and garlic in the bowl of a food processor fitted with a steel blade and process until the chickpeas are finely chopped.  Add the tahini, Grains of Paradise, cumin and salt and process one minute.  Add the water, oil and lemon juice and process until smooth.  Cover and refrigerate at least overnight and up to four days.

Yield: about 2 cups
Level of difficulty: 2
Time: 10 minutes plus overnight refrigeration