International Cuisine > Middle Eastern Cuisine > Dips & Spreads (Middle Eastern) > Hummus Recipe

Authentic Hummus Recipe

Learn to make creamy, delicious hummus from scratch with this easy-to-follow recipe. A staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, hummus is perfect as a dip, spread, or side dish.

Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
0 minutes (if using canned chickpeas)
Servings
6-8
Ingredients
  • 1 can (15 ounces), drained and rinsed Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans)
  • 1/2 cup Tahini (Sesame Seed Paste)
  • 1/4 cup, freshly squeezed Lemon Juice
  • 2 cloves, minced Garlic
  • 2-4 tablespoons Ice Water
  • 2 tablespoons, plus extra for drizzling Olive Oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste Salt
  • Optional for garnish Paprika
  • Optional for garnish Fresh Parsley

Preparing the Chickpeas

Drain and rinse the canned chickpeas thoroughly under cold water. This helps remove excess starch and contributes to a smoother hummus. For an even smoother hummus, you can remove the skins from the chickpeas. This is a bit time-consuming, but the result is a truly silky texture. You can do this by gently rubbing the chickpeas between your fingers or using a clean kitchen towel.

Blending the Hummus

In a food processor, combine the tahini and lemon juice. Process for 1-2 minutes, scraping down the sides as needed, until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a creamy base.

Adding the Remaining Ingredients

Add the minced garlic, olive oil, and salt to the tahini mixture. Process for another minute until well combined. Then, add half of the chickpeas and process until smooth. Add the remaining chickpeas and continue to process.

Achieving the Perfect Consistency

With the food processor running, slowly drizzle in the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the hummus reaches your desired consistency. The ice water helps to lighten the hummus and make it extra creamy. Be careful not to add too much water at once, as this can make the hummus too thin.

Taste and Adjust

Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more lemon juice for tanginess, salt for flavor, or garlic for a stronger bite. Process briefly after each addition to incorporate the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika and fresh parsley, if desired. Serve with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers for dipping. Hummus can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

(Note: These are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.) Calories: Approximately 166 kcal Protein: Approximately 7.9g Fat: Approximately 10.1g Carbohydrates: Approximately 12.7g Fiber: Approximately 4.5g Sugar: Approximately 1.5g

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

Hummus is a relatively healthy food, providing a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. However, it is also calorie-dense, so portion control is important. Consider the following: * Chickpeas: Provide fiber and protein, contributing to satiety. * Tahini: A good source of healthy fats and calcium. * Olive Oil: Provides healthy monounsaturated fats. * Sodium: Be mindful of the salt content, especially if using canned chickpeas with added sodium. Choose low-sodium or no-salt-added options when possible. * Homemade vs. Store-Bought: Homemade hummus generally allows for better control over ingredients and sodium content.

← Authentic Homemade Pita Bread Authentic Jordanian Mansaf →

FAQ

  • Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

    Yes, you can use dried chickpeas. Soak them overnight and then boil them until they are very tender before using them in the recipe. You'll need about 1 1/2 cups of cooked chickpeas to replace the canned chickpeas.
  • How can I make the hummus smoother?

    Removing the skins from the chickpeas is the key to super smooth hummus. Also, processing the tahini and lemon juice together for a couple of minutes at the beginning helps create a smoother base.
  • Can I add other flavors to hummus?

    Absolutely! Roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or spices like cumin or smoked paprika can be added to create different flavor variations.