Ingredients
Method
- Place the cooked chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and ground cumin in a food processor or blender.
- Process until you get a thick paste. While the machine is running, slowly add ice water until the hummus becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add olive oil and blend again until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust salt or lemon juice if needed.
- Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle extra olive oil on top and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Optionally, finish with a pinch of paprika.
- Serve immediately with pita bread, crackers, or raw vegetables.
Notes
Hummus stands out as one of the most beloved dips worldwide, prized for its creamy texture and nourishing, plant-based ingredients. Its versatility lets you enjoy it as a spread, dip, or even as a sandwich filling—making it a perfect choice for snacks, gatherings, or light meals.
Practical Tips for Perfect Hummus
- For extra smoothness, consider peeling the chickpeas before blending. Simply rub the cooked chickpeas between your hands in water—the skins will loosen and float to the top.
- Use good-quality tahini for a richer flavor and ultra-creamy hummus. Stir your tahini well before measuring to distribute the natural oils.
- If your hummus seems too thick, add ice-cold water slowly while blending. This trick creates a silkier, lighter texture.
- Want a twist? Swap chickpeas for white beans, or try adding roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or extra garlic for unique flavors.
Flavor and Technique Insights
- Lemon juice is key: Add it early during blending to help break down the tahini and enhance the hummus’ brightness.
- Don’t skip on resting—resting the hummus for 30 minutes before serving lets flavors meld for a more harmonious taste.
- Blend thoroughly for the creamiest results, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed for an even texture.
How to Serve and What Goes Well With Hummus
- Pair hummus with fresh vegetable sticks like carrots, cucumber, celery, or bell peppers for a healthy snack.
- Spread it on warm pita bread or toast, or use it as a base layer in wraps and grain bowls.
- Elevate your platter with a drizzle of olive oil, sprinkles of paprika, za’atar, or roasted chickpeas for a satisfying crunch.
- Hummus also complements dishes like falafel, grilled meats, and tabbouleh salads beautifully.