Homous Soldiers

In a blender add 1 400g can drained and rinsed chick peas, 1 tbspn tahini, 1tbspn olive oil, 1/2 tbspn fresh lemon OR lime juice (the stuff in bottles is OK if you don't have fresh), 1 clove freshly crushed garlic, pinch of salt and pepper. Blend into a puree.

Scoop off any that sticks to the side and mix it back in. If you're prodding around inside your blender TURN IT OFF AT THE PLUG FIRST!

Toast some wholemeal bread and cut into strips (soldiers) for dipping. IF you're feeling healthy you can use strips of raw vegetables (red peppers, carrot sticks etc.) instead.

OK, that's the easy bit. The main thing with this is you have to get the desired texture. Some like it stiff like a pate, others like it runnier.

If it comes out a bit thick, add some olive oil or a splash of hot water and reblend. Experiment with different amounts of garlic, lemon juice etc until you find your favourite.

It's always best to add a little bit at a time. Try adding chopped sundried tomatoes or olives for a variation.