Introduction
Hummus is a beloved Middle Eastern dip that has gained worldwide popularity for its creamy texture and versatile flavor. This delicious recipe from Love and Lemons offers a perfect blend of chickpeas, tahini, and fresh ingredients. Whether served as an appetizer or a healthy snack, this hummus is sure to delight your taste buds.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1½ cups cooked chickpeas, drained and rinsed
⅓ cup smooth tahini
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, plus more to taste
1 garlic clove
½ teaspoon sea salt
5 tablespoons water, or as needed to blend
Paprika, red pepper flakes, and/or fresh parsley, for garnish
Warm pita bread and/or veggies, for serving
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
This hummus recipe is simple yet satisfying, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or a healthy snack at home. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a smooth and flavorful dip that pairs wonderfully with pita bread and fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients required for the hummus including cooked chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, sea salt, and water.
Step 2: Blend Base Ingredients
In a high-speed blender, combine the drained and rinsed chickpeas, smooth tahini, extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic clove, and sea salt.
Step 3: Blend to Achieve Smooth Consistency
Use the blender baton to blend the mixture until it is very smooth. If needed, gradually add water to help blend and achieve your desired consistency.
Step 4: Transfer and Garnish
Once blended smoothly, transfer the hummus to a serving plate. Garnish with paprika, red pepper flakes, and/or fresh parsley as desired.
Step 5: Serve
Serve the hummus with warm pita bread and fresh veggies according to preference.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions
You can experiment with different types of beans, such as white beans or black beans, in place of chickpeas for a different flavor profile.
Texture Adjustment
For a thinner hummus, increase the amount of water added during blending. Adjust lemon juice and salt according to your taste preference.
Storage
Store any leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It may thicken, so you can add a little water and stir before serving again.
Cook techniques
Blending for Smoothness
Using a high-speed blender is essential to achieving a creamy and smooth texture for your hummus. Make sure to blend thoroughly and add water gradually to adjust the consistency.
Flavor Balance
Adjust the flavors by tasting and adding more lemon juice, garlic, or salt according to your preference. This step ensures that the hummus is balanced and suits your personal taste.
Garnishing
Garnish your hummus with paprika, red pepper flakes, or fresh parsley to enhance both its flavor and visual appeal. These toppings add a pop of color and extra taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your hummus with warm pita bread and fresh veggies for a delightful appetizer or snack. The warm pita enhances the overall experience.
FAQ
Can I use canned chickpeas for hummus?
Yes, canned chickpeas can save time and still yield a delicious hummus. Just drain and rinse them before use.
How can I store leftover hummus?
Store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Can I make hummus without tahini?
Yes, you can omit tahini or substitute it with other nut butters, like almond or peanut butter, though it will slightly alter the flavor.
Is hummus gluten-free?
Yes, hummus is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
What can I use instead of olive oil?
You can substitute olive oil with other oils like avocado oil or sesame oil, based on your flavor preference.
Conclusion
Hummus is a versatile and delicious dip that can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying as a snack. The combination of chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and fresh lemon juice creates a delightful balance that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Add roasted red peppers to the basic hummus recipe for a sweet and smoky flavor. Blend them in with the other ingredients for a delicious twist.
Spicy Hummus
Incorporate additional garlic and fresh jalapeños or red pepper flakes to give your hummus a spicy kick. This is perfect for those who enjoy heat in their snacks.
Herbed Hummus
Mix in fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or dill to elevate the flavor profile. This variation adds freshness and a vibrant color to your hummus.
Lemon and Cumin Hummus
Try adding ground cumin and extra lemon juice to infuse a zesty and warm flavor that complements the traditional hummus.
Black Bean Hummus
Swap chickpeas for black beans for a unique twist. This variation has a rich flavor and pairs well with lime juice and cilantro.
Avocado Hummus
Blend in ripe avocado for a creamy texture and added healthy fats. This version is not only delicious but also offers a beautiful green color.
Caramelized Onion Hummus
Fold in some caramelized onions for a sweet and savory addition. This also adds depth to the flavor and can impress your guests.
Beet Hummus
Incorporate roasted beets to achieve a vibrant pink hue and an earthier taste. This variation is visually striking and deliciously different.
