Hulba (Fenugreek Paste)

Directions

1. 1
   Place fenugreek in a bowl and add cold water.
2. 2
   Leave to soak for 5 hours.
3. 3
   Pour off water and beat until frothy with a fork.
4. 4
   Remove stalks and seeds from chilis and chop finely (take care in handling them).
5. 5
   Blend into fenugreek paste with salt to taste and place in a pot.
6. 6
   This is the actual Hulba.
7. 7
   Add remaining ingredients except the stock or substitute some of the ingredients with whatever is on hand.
8. 8
   Blend ingredients in pot and add enough stock to moisten.
9. 9
   Place over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until bubbling and thick.
10. 10
    Add a little more stock during heating if necessary.
11. 11
    Adjust seasoning with salt and serve in a deep bowl with khobz, malvj, or the readily available Lebanese flat bread for scooping up the mixture.
12. 12
    Serve in individual bowls if preferred.