Best Hummus Recipe

Spread the love

Why Make This Recipe

Hummus is more than just a delicious dip; it’s also nutritious and versatile. Whether you are enjoying a simple snack or hosting a party, hummus can be a fantastic addition to your table. This best hummus recipe stands out because it uses fresh ingredients and traditional methods to create a creamy and flavorful dish. Made primarily from chickpeas, tahini, and a few other ingredients, hummus is not only easy to prepare but also packed with plant-based protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Making hummus at home allows you to control the flavors and adjust the recipe to suit your taste, making it a great choice for anyone looking to satisfy their cravings healthily.

How to Make Best Hummus

Making hummus at home is simple and requires just a few basic ingredients. Let’s walk through the steps and ingredients needed to create this delicious dip.

Ingredients

1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/4 cup tahini
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Salt to taste
Water as needed
Paprika for garnish
Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients. Make sure to rinse the canned chickpeas thoroughly under running water. This step helps remove excess sodium and enhances the flavor of your hummus.
Add Ingredients to Food Processor: In a food processor, combine the drained chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt.
Blend Until Smooth: Turn on the food processor and blend the mixture until it is smooth. If the hummus looks too thick, you can add water to achieve your desired consistency. Start with one tablespoon of water and blend again. Continue adding water one tablespoon at a time until your hummus reaches the smoothness you like.
Taste and Adjust: After blending, taste your hummus. If you feel it needs more flavor, you can add a little more salt, lemon juice, or cumin to suit your preference. Blend again after adding any extra seasoning.
Transfer and Serve: Once you are happy with the taste and texture, transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle a little olive oil on top to create a nice finish. You can also sprinkle paprika over the surface for color and added flavor, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Serve: Enjoy your homemade hummus with sliced vegetables, pita bread, or crackers. It’s a great snack or appetizer to share with friends and family.

How to Serve Best Hummus

Hummus can be served in countless ways, making it an incredibly versatile dish. Here are some ideas for serving your best hummus:

As a Dip: Serve hummus with a variety of dippers, such as carrot sticks, cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, or cherry tomatoes. This creates a healthy and colorful platter perfect for parties or as a quick snack.
With Pita: Cut pita bread into triangles and serve it warm alongside your hummus. The soft texture of the pita pairs beautifully with the creamy dip, making it a classic choice.
In a Wrap: Spread hummus on a whole wheat wrap and fill it with your choice of sliced vegetables, grilled chicken, or turkey. Roll it up for a nutritious lunch that’s easy to take on the go.
As Spread on Toast: Use hummus as a spread on toast. Top with sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, or radishes for a delicious breakfast or brunch option.
In Salads: Incorporate hummus into your salads as a dressing. Thin it out with a bit of water or lemon juice to create a delicious dressing that adds flavor and creaminess.
With Chips: For a fun twist, serve hummus with pita chips or tortilla chips. The crunch of the chips adds another dimension to this creamy dip.

How to Store Best Hummus

Proper storage of your homemade hummus will ensure it stays fresh and delicious. Here’s how to store it:

Refrigeration: Once you’ve prepared hummus, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 4 to 7 days.
Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, hummus can be frozen. Use a freezer-safe container, leave some space at the top to allow for expansion, and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Storing Garnishes Separately: If you add garnishes such as oil, paprika, or parsley, consider storing them separately until you’re ready to serve. This keeps the hummus fresh and maintains the garnish’s appearance.
Re-blend After Storage: After storing hummus, the texture may become a bit thick. When ready to eat, give it a quick stir or pop it back in the food processor with a splash of water or olive oil to bring it back to that creamy consistency.

Tips to Make Best Hummus

Creating the perfect hummus is easy with a few tips:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh lemon juice and good-quality olive oil. Fresh ingredients will taste better and enhance the overall flavor of your hummus.
Peel the Chickpeas: For an extra smooth hummus, consider peeling the skins off the chickpeas before blending them. This step takes a little more time, but it results in a creamier texture.
Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Everyone has unique tastes, so feel free to adjust the salt, lemon juice, and garlic to fit your preference. Taste testing is key to finding that perfect balance.
Experiment with Flavors: Get creative! Add roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or spices like smoked paprika and harissa for a twist on the classic flavor.
Serve Cold or Warm: Some people enjoy hummus cold, while others like it warmed up slightly. Both options are delicious, so try it both ways to see how you prefer it.

Variation

While the classic hummus recipe is wonderful on its own, there are plenty of variations you can explore:

Roasted Garlic Hummus: Instead of raw garlic, roast a bulb of garlic until soft and sweet. Blend it into the hummus for a mellower garlic flavor.
Spicy Hummus: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some cayenne pepper, chili powder, or jalapeños to your hummus. This will give it a delightful kick.
Herbed Hummus: Adding fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or dill can provide a refreshing twist and unique flavor.
Beet Hummus: For a visually stunning option, blend in some cooked beets. This will not only change the color to a vibrant pink but also add a sweet earthiness to the dip.
Avocado Hummus: Mixing in ripe avocado creates a creamy, luscious dip packed with healthy fats. Adjust the lemon juice to keep the flavor bright.

FAQs

What can I use instead of tahini?
If you don’t have tahini or want a nut-free alternative, you can use sunflower seed butter or even Greek yogurt for a different flavor and consistency.
Can I make hummus without a food processor?
Yes! You can use a blender or even a hand mixer for smaller batches. For a more rustic texture, you can mash the chickpeas with a fork and mix in the other ingredients by hand.
Is hummus healthy?
Absolutely! Hummus is made with healthy ingredients such as chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil, providing protein, fiber, and healthy fats. It’s a satisfying snack that keeps you full.
How can I make my hummus creamier?
To achieve a creamier hummus, make sure to blend thoroughly and add water as needed. Peeling the chickpeas or using dried chickpeas that have been boiled and cooled can also help create a smoother texture.
What can I do with leftover hummus?
Leftover hummus can be used in various ways. Spread it on sandwiches, mix it into pasta salads, or use it as a base for savory sauces. Get creative!

By following this simple recipe and the tips provided, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious homemade hummus that you can customize to your liking. Whether it’s for a snack, a gathering, or just when you’re in the mood for something tasty, hummus is a fantastic go-to option. Enjoy!