2 T Safflower oil 2 x Carrots, grated 2 x Cloves Garlic, minced 1 x Med Onion, chop fine (1/2 c) 15 oz Can Chick Peas, rinse,draine 3 c Vegetable stock 1/3 c Tahini 2 T Lemon juice 1 T Chopped fresh parsley 3/4 t Ground Cumin 1/2 t Black pepper 1/2 t Thyme leaves 1/4 t Powdered tumeric 1/8 t Cayenne pepper GARNISH: toasted sesame seeds, minced scallions, finely chopped tomatoes, or Herbed Garlic Croutons, optional In 4-5 qt saucepan, heat oil. Add carrots, garlic, and onion; cook until tender. Set aside. Menawhile, in food processor, puree chick peas, 1 cup of vegetable stock, tahini, and lemon juice. Stir pureed mixture into saucepan. Add remaining ingredients including vegetable stock. Cover and cook for 5 minutes to heat through. Top with garnish if desired. VARIATIONS: - substitute olive oil for safflower oil ~ add 1 med sweet red pepper, finely chopped; saute with other veggies.