Hummus
A creamy, smooth chickpea dip blended with tahini, lemon, and garlic. This authentic Middle Eastern recipe is a versatile classic, perfect for dipping pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as a spread in sandwiches. Ready in minutes and far superior to store-bought versions.
For 4 servings
6 steps.
- 1
In the bowl of a food processor, combine the tahini and lemon juice
- a.Process for 1 minute, scraping down the sides halfway through, until the mixture is light, whipped, and creamy. This step is crucial for a non-bitter, smooth hummus.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Add the extra virgin olive oil, chopped garlic, ground cumin, and salt to the whipped tahini. Process for 30 seconds, then scrape the bowl again to ensure everything is well combined.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Add half of the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the food processor and blend for 1 minute. Add the remaining chickpeas and blend for another 1-2 minutes until thick and very smooth. Scrape down the sides as needed.
- 4
With the processor running, slowly stream in the ice-cold water
- a.Continue to process for 2-3 minutes until the hummus is ultra-smooth and creamy. The mixture will lighten in color and become fluffy.
- 5
Taste and adjust seasoning
- a.You may want more salt, cumin, or lemon juice. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Let the hummus rest for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator for the flavors to meld. Before serving, create a swirl with the back of a spoon, drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil, and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika and fresh parsley.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the absolute smoothest hummus, take 5-10 minutes to peel the skins from the chickpeas. Pinch each chickpea gently and the skin will slide right off.
- 2Using ice-cold water is a key technique that helps emulsify the tahini, resulting in an exceptionally creamy and fluffy texture.
- 3Don't rush the blending process. Allowing the food processor to run for several minutes incorporates air and is essential for a light, whipped consistency.
- 4The quality of your tahini will significantly impact the flavor. Use a high-quality brand that is smooth and not overly bitter.
- 5For the best flavor, let the hummus rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the garlic and lemon flavors to meld and mellow.
- 6Store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent it from drying out.
Adapt it for your goals.
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Add one roasted and peeled red bell pepper (from a jar or homemade) to the food processor along with the chickpeas.
Spicy HummusSpicy Hummus
Blend in 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat) for a spicy kick.
Roasted Garlic HummusRoasted Garlic Hummus
Roast a whole head of garlic until soft and caramelized. Squeeze the cloves out and use them in place of the raw garlic for a sweeter, milder garlic flavor.
Beet HummusBeet Hummus
Add one small, cooked and peeled beet to the food processor for a vibrant color and earthy flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Chickpeas are an excellent source of protein, making hummus a great choice for vegetarians and vegans to support muscle repair and growth.
High in Dietary Fiber
The high fiber content from chickpeas aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps you feel full longer, which can assist with weight management.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Hummus contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from both tahini (sesame seeds) and extra virgin olive oil, which can help lower bad cholesterol levels.
Packed with Nutrients
This dip is a good source of essential minerals like manganese, copper, folate, and iron, which are vital for energy production and overall health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, hummus is very healthy. It's a great source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and healthy fats from tahini and olive oil. It's also packed with essential vitamins and minerals like manganese, copper, and folate.
