Mediterranean Smashed Chickpeas

Directions

1. 1
   Put 3 tablespoons olive oil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat.
2. 2
   Add onion, season with salt and pepper, and cook gently until softened, about 10 minutes.
3. 3
   Raise heat to medium-high.
4. 4
   Add garlic, cumin, red pepper flakes and celery.
5. 5
   Stir to combine let sizzle without browning for 1 minute.
6. 6
   Add chickpeas and let them heat through.
7. 7
   With a potato masher or wooden spoon, crush about half the beans.
8. 8
   Stir well, taste and adjust seasoning.
9. 9
   Add 1/2 cup water (or bean cooking liquid if you have it) and let mixture simmer briskly for a minute or two.
10. 10
    Stir in lemon juice and 2 tablespoons olive oil.
11. 11
    Serve warm in pita or as a dip or side dish.
12. 12
    Garnish with quartered eggs, accompanied by minted yogurt and tahini sauce, if desired.