Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a medium skillet or sauté pan over medium heat
Once oil is hot, add thinly sliced onion and stir to coat with oil - Spread the onion out into a single layer and allow to cook (stirring occasionally) for 10 minutes or until golden in color
Increase heat to medium-high - Add a pinch of salt and pepper - Continue to cook (stirring constantly) until onions are fully caramelized and reach a deep mahogany color (apx 10-15 minutes)
De-glaze the pan with ¼ Cup water -OR- 2 Tbs water mixed with optional 2 Tbs balsamic vinegar - Continue to cook until all of the 'fond' has been lifted from the bottom of the pan and almost all of the added liquid has evaporated - Remove from heat and allow to cool
Bring 2 cups water to a simmer and whisk in the Chickpea flour and cook for 2 minutes – Allow to cool
Place half of the cooled caramelized onions along with the cooked chickpea flour, chickpeas, garlic, tahini, lemon juice, and salt to taste in a blender or food processor and pulse a few times
While blender or processor is running, drizzle in olive oil until mixture reaches the desired texture
Adjust flavors (more tahini, salt, pepper, lemon juice if desired)
Fold in the remaining caramelized onion until well dispersed
Garnish with a little olive oil and paprika if desired – Serve with warm pita bread, dipping vegetables, corn chips, etc.
Store in an airtight container in refrigerator for up to one week