Hummus L’Basar

I became obsessed with this appetizer in Israel and make it at every opportunity. It’s so easy to recreate the fabulous flavor in this homemade version.

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 pounds ground beef
2 tablespoons baharat spice blend (recipe below)
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon fresh ground
black pepper
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Your favorite smooth and creamy hummus
Pita or pita chips

Baharat Spice Blend
4 tablespoons ground black pepper
2 tablespoons ground coriander
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons ground cloves
3 tablespoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
4 teaspoons ground nutmeg
4 tablespoons paprika

1. Make the baharat spice blend: In a small container, combine the spices. Cover and store at room temperature until ready to use.
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook 1 minute; then add the beef and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring while cooking to break up the meat into small pieces.
3. Add the baharat spice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper, and mix well. Continue cooking about 3 to 5 minutes more, until the meat is cooked through. Turn off the heat and add the parsley.
4. To serve: Place hummus in a shallow dish, making a small well in the center and spreading the hummus around edges of dish. Place seasoned meat in the center of the hummus. Serve with pita or pita chips.

Yield: 8-10 servings