Hummus is a delicious and versatile Middle Eastern dip that has gained popularity worldwide. It's creamy, tangy, and packed with nutrients, making it a perfect snack or appetizer. Whether you're serving it with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or using it as a spread in sandwiches, this hummus recipe is sure to be a hit.
Some ingredients in this hummus recipe might not be commonly found in every household. Tahini, a paste made from ground sesame seeds, is essential for that authentic hummus flavor. You can find it in the international or health food aisle of most supermarkets. Freshly squeezed Lemon juice and Ground cumin are also key ingredients that add a zesty and earthy flavor to the hummus.
Ingredients For Hummus Recipe
Chickpeas: These are the base of the hummus, providing a creamy texture and nutty flavor.
Lemon juice: Adds a fresh, tangy flavor that brightens up the hummus.
Tahini: A paste made from ground sesame seeds, giving the hummus its rich and nutty taste.
Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic flavor to the hummus.
Olive oil: Provides a smooth texture and enhances the flavor of the hummus.
Ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the chickpeas.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the hummus.
Water: Helps achieve the desired creamy consistency.
Technique Tip for Making Hummus
To achieve an ultra-smooth hummus, make sure to process the tahini and lemon juice first. This step helps to whip the tahini into a creamy consistency before adding the other ingredients. Additionally, peeling the chickpeas can make a significant difference in the texture, resulting in a much smoother final product.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
chickpeas - Substitute with white beans: White beans have a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a good alternative to chickpeas in hummus.
lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and brightness, though it will impart a slightly different citrus flavor.
tahini - Substitute with sunflower seed butter: Sunflower seed butter has a similar consistency and nutty flavor, making it a good alternative to tahini.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor, though it is less pungent and more concentrated, so use sparingly.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and mild flavor, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a slightly different but complementary flavor profile that can add a unique twist to the hummus.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar salty flavor along with a bit of umami, though it will change the color and add a different depth of flavor.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can add extra flavor and depth compared to plain water, enhancing the overall taste of the hummus.
Alternative Recipes Similar to Hummus
How to Store or Freeze Your Hummus
- To keep your hummus fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container. This prevents it from absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge.
- For optimal freshness, drizzle a thin layer of olive oil over the top before sealing the container. This helps to maintain its creamy texture.
- Store the container in the refrigerator. Your hummus should stay fresh for up to a week.
- If you notice any separation, simply give it a good stir before serving.
- For longer storage, you can freeze hummus. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top as it will expand slightly.
- To prevent freezer burn, place a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface of the hummus before sealing the container.
- Label the container with the date so you can keep track of its freshness.
- When you're ready to enjoy your frozen hummus, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
- Once thawed, give it a good stir to restore its creamy consistency. If it seems too thick, you can add a bit of lemon juice or water to achieve the desired texture.
- Remember, frozen hummus is best enjoyed within 3 to 4 months for optimal flavor and texture.
How to Reheat Leftovers
For a quick and easy method, transfer the hummus to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds, then stir. Repeat if necessary until warmed through.
If you prefer a more controlled reheating process, use a stovetop. Place the hummus in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and prevent sticking. Add a splash of water or olive oil if the hummus seems too thick.
For a gentle reheating method that preserves the texture, use a double boiler. Fill the bottom pot with water and bring it to a simmer. Place the hummus in the top pot and stir occasionally until warmed through.
To maintain the creamy consistency, you can also reheat hummus in an oven. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Transfer the hummus to an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through.
If you have a steamer, place the hummus in a heatproof bowl and set it in the steamer basket. Steam for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the hummus is heated evenly.
For a unique twist, try reheating hummus on a grill. Place the hummus in a heatproof dish and cover with foil. Set it on the grill over indirect heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This method can add a subtle smoky flavor.
Best Tools for Making Hummus
Food processor: Essential for blending the ingredients into a smooth and creamy hummus.
Measuring cups: Used to accurately measure the lemon juice and tahini.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the olive oil, cumin, and salt.
Garlic press: Handy for mincing the garlic clove quickly and efficiently.
Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides and bottom of the food processor bowl to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Serving bowl: For presenting the hummus once it’s ready.
Spoon: For drizzling extra olive oil and sprinkling paprika on top of the hummus before serving.
How to Save Time on Making Hummus
Use canned chickpeas: Save time by using canned chickpeas instead of cooking dried ones. They are already cooked and ready to use.
Pre-minced garlic: Opt for pre-minced garlic from a jar to skip the peeling and mincing step.
Lemon juice in a bottle: Use bottled lemon juice to avoid squeezing fresh lemons.
Food processor efficiency: Process all ingredients together instead of in stages to reduce preparation time.
Batch preparation: Make a larger batch and store in the fridge for up to a week, saving time on future meals.
Hummus Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 can Chickpeas drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup Lemon Juice freshly squeezed
- ¼ cup Tahini
- 1 clove Garlic minced
- 2 tablespoon Olive Oil plus extra for serving
- ½ teaspoon Ground Cumin
- to taste Salt
- 2-3 tablespoon Water
Instructions
- 1. In a food processor, combine tahini and lemon juice. Process for 1 minute.
- 2. Add the olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, and a pinch of salt to the whipped tahini and lemon juice. Process for 30 seconds.
- 3. Add half of the chickpeas to the food processor and process for 1 minute. Scrape sides and bottom of bowl, then add remaining chickpeas and process until thick and smooth.
- 4. With the food processor running, slowly add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water until the hummus is smooth and creamy.
- 5. Taste for salt and adjust as needed. Serve hummus with a drizzle of olive oil and a dash of paprika.
Nutritional Value
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