Traditional Hummus

In the world of dips and spreads, few are as beloved and versatile as hummus. This creamy blend of chickpeas, tahini, and spices is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a healthy snack, or craving a flavorful spread for your sandwiches, homemade traditional hummus is the perfect solution. Let’s dive into how you can make this Middle Eastern classic right in your own kitchen!

Why Homemade Hummus? While store-bought hummus is convenient, nothing beats the flavor and freshness of homemade hummus. By making it yourself, you have full control over the ingredients, allowing you to customize the flavor to suit your preferences. Plus, homemade hummus is free from preservatives and additives, making it a healthier option for you and your family.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup tahini (sesame paste)
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons water, as needed
• Optional garnishes: olive oil, paprika, chopped fresh parsley, or toasted pine nuts

To begin, prepare the chickpeas by thoroughly draining and rinsing them under cold water. This step aids in removing excess salt and starch, resulting in a smoother texture for the hummus.

Next, combine the drained chickpeas, tahini, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt in a food processor.

Process the mixture until it achieves a velvety, homogeneous consistency, taking care to scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically. Should the hummus appear overly thick, gradually incorporate water, one tablespoon at a time, until reaching the desired creaminess.

Once blended to satisfaction, taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning to your preference. Additional salt, lemon juice, or garlic may be added to suit your individual taste profile.

Transfer the prepared traditional hummus to a serving bowl, drizzling a modest amount of extra virgin olive oil over the top and sprinkling with paprika for visual appeal. For an added touch of elegance and flavor, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or toasted pine nuts, if desired.

Traditional hummus serves as a versatile accompaniment, complementing an array of dishes. Enjoy it as a dip alongside pita bread, pita chips, or fresh vegetables. Alternatively, incorporate it into sandwiches or wraps as a delectable spread. Its versatility extends to mezze platters, where it shines alongside an assortment of Middle Eastern delicacies.

Storage and Variations: Store any leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before serving, give it a quick stir and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Feel free to customize your hummus by adding ingredients like roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or fresh herbs. Get creative and experiment with different flavors to suit your taste preferences!

Homemade traditional hummus is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious and nutritious. By following this simple recipe, you can enjoy the authentic flavors of this Middle Eastern staple right in your own home. So grab your food processor, gather your ingredients, and get ready to dip into a bowl of creamy goodness!

Traditional Hummus

Recipe by wildfoodjourneyCourse: Sides/Condiments

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking timeminutes

Calories

70-100

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1/4 cup tahini

• 3 tablespoons lemon juice, about one lemon

• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

• salt and pepper

• 2-3 tablespoons water, as needed

Directions

• Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly under cold water. This helps remove excess salt and starch, resulting in a smoother hummus.
• In a food processor, combine the drained chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt.
• Process the mixture until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. If the hummus is too thick, gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
• Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, lemon juice, or garlic according to your preferences.
• Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with paprika for color. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or toasted pine nuts if desired.
• Serve the traditional hummus with pita bread, pita chips, fresh vegetables, or as a spread in sandwiches and wraps. It’s also delicious as a dip for crackers or as part of a mezze platter.

Notes

• Feel free to customize your hummus by adding ingredients like roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or fresh herbs. Get creative and experiment with different flavors to suit your taste preferences!