Hummus
Hummus is a delightful and creamy dip that has gained immense popularity across various cuisines. Made primarily from chickpeas, this Middle Eastern staple offers not just a boost of flavor but also packs a nutrition punch. Whether you spread it on a sandwich or use it as a dip for fresh vegetables, hummus is versatile and easy to make at home. Let’s walk through the ins and outs of creating your own batch of delicious homemade hummus!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 150
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 210mg
Why Make This Hummus
Making hummus at home is not only quick and simple, but it allows you to customize flavors to suit your palate. Store-bought options often come loaded with preservatives and extra sodium. By preparing hummus yourself, you can control the ingredients and create a fresher, tastier, and healthier dip. Plus, enjoying hummus is guilt-free, thanks to its plant-based protein and healthy fats!
How to Make Hummus
Creating hummus can be split into a few easy steps, ensuring a smooth and creamy end product that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
- Paprika for garnish (optional)
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and salt. This combination is the foundation of your hummus, blending together savory and creamy elements.
Step 2: Mixing
Blend the mixture until smooth, adding water as needed to reach your desired consistency. If you like your hummus a bit creamier, add more water gradually while blending.
Step 3: Taste Testing
Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may want to add a bit more salt or lemon juice depending on your flavor preference.
Step 4: Finishing
Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with paprika and parsley if desired. This adds a lovely visual appeal and enhances the taste!
Step 5: Serve
Serve your hummus with pita bread or fresh vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, or bell peppers for an enjoyable snack or appetizer.
How to Serve Hummus
Hummus is incredibly versatile! You can serve it as a side with grilled meats, as part of a mezze platter, or simply as a healthy snack paired with whole-grain crackers. It’s also a great addition to wraps and sandwiches, adding a creamy texture without the calories of mayonnaise.
How to Store Hummus
To store hummus, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for about 5 to 7 days. If you find that it thickens in the fridge, simply add a bit of water and stir to reach the desired consistency before serving again.
Expert Tips for Perfect Hummus
- For an extra creamy texture, try removing the skins from the chickpeas before blending.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a brighter flavor.
- Experiment with different spices such as smoked paprika or roasted garlic for added depth.
- If you’re short on time, use canned chickpeas, but soaking and cooking dried chickpeas overnight can enhance the flavor.
Delicious Variations
- Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Add roasted red peppers to the mix for a sweet and smoky flavor.
- Spicy Hummus: Blend in a dash of cayenne pepper or harissa for a kick.
- Herbed Hummus: Fold in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a fresh twist.
- Avocado Hummus: Mix in ripe avocado for a creamy, green version of this classic dip!
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes! Just soak them overnight and cook them until tender before using. -
What can I use instead of tahini?
You can substitute tahini with sunflower seed butter or even omit it for a lighter version. -
Is hummus gluten-free?
Yes, hummus made with chickpeas and the listed ingredients is gluten-free. -
Can I freeze hummus?
Absolutely! You can freeze hummus for up to 4 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. -
How do I make hummus less thick?
Simply add more water, a teaspoon at a time, and blend until you reach your desired consistency.
Conclusion
Homemade hummus is a fantastic option for health-conscious eaters looking for a delicious dip or spread. Its creamy texture and savory flavor make it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you enjoy it with pita, veggies, or as a spread in your meal prep, this recipe offers endless possibilities. So gather your ingredients and give this easy hummus recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Homemade Hummus
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A quick and creamy homemade hummus recipe that is perfect as a dip or spread.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
- Paprika for garnish (optional)
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and salt.
- Blend the mixture until smooth, adding water as needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with paprika and parsley if desired.
- Serve your hummus with pita bread or fresh vegetables.
Notes
For an extra creamy texture, try removing the skins from the chickpeas before blending. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for a brighter flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
