Hummus is a rich, creamy, and protein-packed healthy dip, cherished in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. Traditionally crafted with cooked chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and basic seasonings, this Homemade Hummus stands as a wholesome and nutritious dish. This versatile dip pairs best with pita bread, falafel, grilled or roasted or baked meats, and acts as a delightful topping for various dishes.
Learn how to make Hummus effortlessly with the help of this easy-to-follow recipe and detailed video demonstration. The step-by-step instructions will guide you seamlessly through the entire process, ensuring a clear understanding visually.
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What is Hummus?
Hummus is a rich, creamy, and protein-rich Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dip. Made with basic ingredients like cooked or canned chickpeas, tahini, cumin powder, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and optional cayenne pepper. Served with an array of accompaniments, such as pita bread, falafel, fresh or roasted or baked vegetables, or roasted meats, Hummus exceeds cultural boundaries, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.
Hummus has a long history and is loved in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. It started as a simple and affordable food, but now it's famous worldwide. What's great about Hummus is that different countries have their own special ways of making it. Making hummus at home is fun and lets you try new things. Plus, it's healthier without preservatives. Hummus is a versatile vegan dip that everyone enjoys at parties, bringing people together with its delicious taste.
Whether you're hosting a social gathering or family dinner, or simply craving a delightful snack, Hummus stands as a reliable, go-to option that pleases the crowd. A wholesome source of protein and fiber, Hummus stands as a beacon of nutritional balance, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious individuals seeking a delectable and satisfying treat.
Ingredients & Substitutions
The ingredients you will need for making Hummus are simple and basic ingredients readily found in most retail grocery markets. Let's see what are they below.
- Cooked or Canned Chickpeas: These legumes possess a mild and nutty flavor with a delightful creamy texture. The creaminess of chickpeas lends a smooth and velvety consistency to the Hummus, making it a satisfying dip or spread
- Tahini: Made from roasted and ground sesame seeds, tahini brings a rich, nutty essence to Hummus. Its flavor profile also carries a slight bitterness that perfectly complements the other ingredients
- Cumin Powder: A quintessential spice in Middle Eastern cuisine, cumin contributes a warm, earthy, and slightly smoky taste to Hummus
- Garlic: Adding depth and character to the Hummus, garlic imparts a pungent and aromatic quality
- Lemon Juice: The tangy and bright nature of lemon juice infuses Hummus with a refreshing zing. Its acidity not only balances the richness of tahini but also enhances the flavors of the other components
- Olive Oil: The choice of olive oil influences the flavor of Hummus, ranging from fruity and smooth to slightly peppery, depending on the variety used
- Cayenne Pepper (or Chili Powder/Paprika): For those seeking a bit of heat, cayenne pepper imparts a spicy and pungent kick to the dip. It can be adjusted to personal preference. Alternatively, using paprika or regular chili powder provides a milder heat with smoky or sweet undertones
- Parsley or Coriander Leaves: For garnishing
For a detailed ingredients list, please check out the recipe card below.
How to Make Hummus at Home?
The recipe I have shared here is Hummus, a rich and creamy classic dip popular in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. Crafted with fresh ingredients and aromatic seasonings, this flavorful masterpiece delivers a culinary treat right in the comfort of your home.
Below are the high-level instructions for this recipe, but for detailed step-by-step instructions with photos and a video, please see the recipe card below.
- Add the ingredients: Add all the ingredients to the blender jar. Make sure to drain and rinse the chickpeas if using canned ones. Securely close the lid of the blender jar to avoid any spills or accidents during blending
- Blend: Blend all the ingredients until they form a crumbly texture. The initial blending step breaks down the more prominent elements and starts to combine the flavors
- Adjust the consistency: Pause the blender and carefully open the lid to check the consistency. If the hummus seems too thick or dry, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water gradually. Mix well and ensure that you scrape the sides of the jar to incorporate all the ingredients evenly
- Blend until smooth: Close the lid securely again and continue blending until the ingredients become smooth and creamy. This might take a few more minutes, depending on the power of your blender
- Final touch and seasoning: Taste the Hummus and adjust the seasoning according to your liking. You can add more salt, lemon juice, or spices if desired
- Serve: Transfer the Hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle a bit of olive oil on top, sprinkle a pinch of paprika for color and flavor, and garnish with finely chopped parsley leaves for a fresh touch
Calories
This Homemade Hummus contains approximately 63 calories per serving, with each serving being ¼ cup. The recipe yields up to 2.5 cups of Hummus. Please note that these are estimated values and may vary based on any changes to ingredients or quantities. For detailed nutrition information, refer to the recipe card below.
Tips
- Consistency Control: Achieving the desired consistency is crucial. If the hummus is too thick, gradually add water while blending until it reaches a creamy texture. Conversely, if it becomes too runny, adjust by adding more chickpeas or tahini
- Taste Testing: Taste the hummus throughout the blending process and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, lemon juice, or spices to suit your personal preference and balance the flavors
- Tahini Balance: Tahini can have varying levels of bitterness. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste, as it significantly impacts the hummus flavor.
- Creaminess with Olive Oil: For richer and creamier hummus, use good-quality extra virgin olive oil. It enhances the taste and texture of the dip
- Preparation Method: Whether using canned or cooked chickpeas, ensure they are well-drained and rinsed. Cooking chickpeas from scratch can yield a smoother texture, but canned ones are convenient
- Blending Time: Blend the ingredients thoroughly, giving enough time for the chickpeas, tahini, and spices to combine and develop their flavors. Patience is key to achieving a velvety-smooth consistency
- Garnish Grace: Present your hummus beautifully by drizzling olive oil, adding a pinch of paprika, and garnishing with finely chopped parsley leaves. This enhances the appearance and adds an extra touch of flavor
- Storage and Serving: Store any leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before serving, allow it to come to room temperature or give it a good stir, as the texture can change when chilled
Storage Suggestions
This delectable Homemade Hummus retains its freshness when stored in an airtight container for up to one week in the refrigerator. With this versatile and flavorful dip on hand, you can elevate your everyday meals.
Serving Suggestions
Hummus is a versatile and delicious Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dip that pairs well with a variety of foods. Here are some popular options to serve with it:
- Pita Bread: Pita bread is a classic choice for serving with Hummus. You can cut the pita into wedges or tear it into pieces for easy dipping
- Fresh Vegetables: Carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, celery sticks, and broccoli florets are all excellent options for dipping in Hummus
- Falafel: Hummus and falafel are a match made in culinary heaven. Serve falafel alongside the dip for a tasty and satisfying combination
- Olives: Greek or Kalamata olives offer a salty and tangy contrast to the creamy Hummus, creating a delicious contrast of flavors
- Grilled or roasted vegetables: Grilled or roasted zucchini, eggplant, broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, carrots, and asparagus are delightful accompaniments to Hummus
- Flatbread or Naan: Instead of pita bread, you can serve the dip with other flatbreads, croutons or naan for a change of pace
- Tabouli: This traditional Middle Eastern salad made with bulgur, parsley, tomatoes, mint, and lemon juice complements the flavors of Hummus nicely
- Baked or roasted Meat: If you eat meat, consider serving the dip with roasted chicken, chicken thighs, breast, drumsticks, lamb, or beef. The savory, tender meat pairs well with the creamy dip
- Pickles: Pickled vegetables, such as pickles, pickled beets, or pickled turnips, add tanginess and acidity to balance the hummus.
- Roasted Chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas are a fun and crunchy topping that adds texture to this creamy dip
Related Recipes
You could also find similar recipes below and more at dips & condiment recipes.
Hummus Recipe Video
I have also shared a detailed video of this Hummus recipe below that I hope will help you make a creamy dip at home. You can also find this recipe in a story format.
📖 Recipe
Hummus
Ingredients
- 3 cups Cooked Chickpeas, or 2 (15 oz canned chickpeas)
- 3 small Garlic Cloves, chopped
- ½ tsp Cumin Powder
- ¼ tsp Cayenne Pepper, or less heat chili powder
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil, and more for serving
- ¼ cup Tahini
- ¼ cup Water, regular or water drained from cooked chickpea or can ( + more to adjust consistency if needed)
- Paprika, for garnishing
- Coriander Leaves, or parsley for garnishing
Instructions
To make Homemade Hummus
- In the blender jar, add the cooked chickpeas, garlic cloves, cumin powder, cayenne pepper, salt, lemon juice, olive oil, tahini, and half a cup of water. You have the option to use canned chickpeas or cook chickpeas from scratch on the stovetop or in an instant pot
- Securely close the lid of the blender jar and ensure it is tightly fastened. Blend all the ingredients until they reach a crumbly texture. Pause the blender and carefully open the lid. If necessary, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water to adjust the consistency. Mix well, making sure to scrape the sides of the jar
- Close the lid again and run the blender until the ingredients transform into a smooth and thick consistency. Your homemade hummus is now ready to be enjoyed. At this stage you can feel free to adjust the salt according to your personal preference if needed
To Serve
- To serve, top the hummus with a drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of paprika, and finely chopped parsley leaves. It pairs wonderfully with pita bread, falafel, fresh or roasted vegetables, as well as roasted or baked meats. You can also pair it with other dishes of your choice
Video
Notes
- Consistency Control: Achieving the desired consistency is crucial. If the hummus is too thick, gradually add water while blending until it reaches a creamy texture. Conversely, if it becomes too runny, adjust by adding more chickpeas or tahini
- Taste Testing: Taste the hummus throughout the blending process and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, lemon juice, or spices to suit your personal preference and balance the flavors
- Tahini Balance: Tahini can have varying levels of bitterness. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste, as it significantly impacts the hummus flavor.
- Creaminess with Olive Oil: For richer and creamier hummus, use good-quality extra virgin olive oil. It enhances the taste and texture of the dip
- Preparation Method: Whether using canned or cooked chickpeas, ensure they are well-drained and rinsed. Cooking chickpeas from scratch can yield a smoother texture, but canned ones are convenient
- Blending Time: Blend the ingredients thoroughly, giving enough time for the chickpeas, tahini, and spices to combine and develop their flavors. Patience is key to achieving a velvety-smooth consistency
- Garnish Grace: Present your hummus beautifully by drizzling olive oil, adding a pinch of paprika, and garnishing with finely chopped parsley leaves. This enhances the appearance and adds an extra touch of flavor
- Storage and Serving: Store any leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before serving, allow it to come to room temperature or give it a good stir, as the texture can change when chilled
Nutrition
FAQ
Both cooked and canned chickpeas can be used to make Hummus. Cooked chickpeas have a fresher taste and texture, but they require more time for preparation. Canned chickpeas offer convenience, making the process quicker. The choice depends on individual preferences and the availability of time for preparation.
Yes, Hummus is generally considered a healthy food option. It is rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. The primary ingredients, chickpeas, and tahini, offer numerous health benefits, making Hummus a nutritious and delicious choice for dips or spreads.
You can substitute tahini in this recipe with unsweetened almond butter, peanut butter, or Greek yogurt, each offering a unique flavor and texture to customize the hummus to your taste. Try these alternatives to find the perfect replacement for your homemade hummus.
I hope you found the recipe enjoyable and I would appreciate hearing about your experience with it.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to leave a comment and I will do my best to respond promptly. Thank you for reading and happy cooking!
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