Hilbah (Fenugreek Condiment)
Hilbah, (Arabic: حلبة) also spelled holbah, is a condiment or dollop made from ground fenugreek seeds. It is typically consumed with a morsel of bread (sop), or added as flavoring to hot soups. Its preparation is mostly found in Yemen, Israel and other Middle-Eastern countries.
3 tbsp ground fenugreek seeds
1 cup water
Coriander leaves, finely chopped
Leeks, chopped
1 lemon or citric acid to taste
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp zḥug (hot sauce made from red peppers, garlic, coriander leaves, etc.)
Grated tomato (optional)
Soak ground fenugreek in the water for 3 hours until expanded.
3 hours
Beat with a spatula until paste becomes light and frothy. Gradually add more water if necessary.
Mix in coriander leaves and leeks.
Mix in salt, lemon juice, and zḥug.
Mix in grated tomato if using.