Hummus, a creamy and protein-rich dip popular in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines, is made from chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and simple seasonings. This wholesome, homemade version is perfect with pita, falafel, grilled meats, and as a topping for various dishes.
In a blender, combine cooked chickpeas, garlic cloves, cumin powder, cayenne pepper, salt, lemon juice, olive oil, tahini, and ½ cup of water. You can use canned or stovetop/instant pot-cooked chickpeas.
Securely close the blender lid and blend until you achieve a crumbly texture. Pause to add 2-3 tablespoons of water if needed. Scrape the jar's sides and mix well.
Close the lid and blend until the mixture turns smooth and thick. Your homemade hummus is ready. Adjust salt to taste if desired. Enjoy!
To Serve
Enjoy this garnished with olive oil, paprika, and chopped parsley. It pairs perfectly with pita, falafel, veggies, meats, or your favorite dishes.
Notes
Essential Tips to Make Pefect Hummus:
Getting the Right Texture: If your Hummus is too thick, a little water blended in can bring it to that creamy dreaminess. Too runny? Add a bit more chickpeas or tahini to thicken it up.
Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to taste while blending! Feel free to tweak the flavors with extra salt, lemon juice, or spices until it's just right for your palate.
Tahini Tip: Since tahini can vary in bitterness, start with a small amount and add more as needed. It's a key player in getting that classic Hummus flavor.
Olive Oil for Creaminess: A splash of good-quality extra virgin olive oil can take your Hummus from good to great, adding both flavor and a creamy texture.
Chickpea Choice: Whether you're using canned or home-cooked chickpeas, make sure they're well-drained and rinsed. Home-cooked might give you a smoother blend, but canned chickpeas are super convenient.
Blend Well: Give your Hummus some time in the blender to get everything nicely mixed and smooth. Patience pays off with a velvety texture.
Dress It Up: Garnishing is key! A drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, and some finely chopped parsley not only make your Hummus look great but add an extra layer of flavor.
Tahini Substitutes: If you're out of tahini, try almond butter, peanut butter, or Greek yogurt as alternatives. Each adds a unique flavor and texture to customize your hummus to taste. Experiment to find your perfect replacement.