Hilbeh

Ingredients

 * 3 tbl fenugreek seeds
 * 3 med tomato, coarsely chopped
 * 2 tbl garlic, finely chopped
 * 1/2 tsp salt
 * 3 cardamom pods, crushed
 * 1 tsp caraway seeds
 * 1/2 tsp coriander seeds,
 * 1/2 tsp Hot red pepper, ground

Directions

 * 1) With a mortar and pestle or the back of a spoon, crush the fenugreek seeds to a fine powder.
 * 2) Pour in 1 cup of boiling water and steep for 2 or 3 hours.
 * 3) then drain the fenugreek in a fine sieve.
 * 4) Puree the tomatoes through a sieve set over a bowl and stir the fenugreek into them.
 * 5) With the back of a spoon or with a mortar and pestle, mash the garlic and salt to a paste.
 * 6) Add the cardamom, caraway, coriander and red pepper and mash them vigorously until the mixture is smooth.
 * 7) Stir it into the tomato and fenugreek.
 * 8) Serve at once or store tightly covered in the refrigerator.
 * 9) Hilbeh is a traditional fiery accompaniment for felafel, or a dip for bread.