Say farewell to mediocre store-bought hummus—this recipe guarantees a creamy, whipped, flavor-packed spread, ideal for scooping with pita or as a standout on any Middle Eastern table.
Servings: About 3 cups
Prep Time: 20 Minutes
Total Time: 20 Minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 (15½ oz.) cans chickpeas
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from 2 lemons)
- ¼ cup sesame tahini (well stirred, preferably Joyva Sesame Tahini)
- 2 cloves garlic (roughly chopped)
- Heaping ¼ teaspoon cumin
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley (for serving, optional)
- Paprika (for serving, optional)
Directions:
- Reserve the liquid from the cans, then drain the chickpeas in a colander (no need to rinse). Set a few chickpeas aside for garnishing.
- In a food processor, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, olive oil, and ⅓ cup of reserved liquid. Process for several minutes until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with more liquid if too thick, and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Transfer to a serving bowl. Create a shallow well in the center with a spoon, drizzle olive oil in the well, and sprinkle with parsley and paprika. Garnish with reserved chickpeas.
- Serve at room temperature with pita bread, pita chips, or crudités.
Make-Ahead Instructions: Hummus can be made and stored in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with warm pita bread, pita chips, or fresh vegetables like carrots, cucumber slices, and bell pepper strips.
- Spread on sandwiches or wraps.
- Use as a dip for grilled meats or kebabs.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra smooth texture, peel chickpeas by rubbing off the skins before processing.
- Adjust consistency with more reserved liquid or olive oil.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Chickpeas are a source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
- Tahini adds healthy fats and protein with a rich flavor.
- Olive oil provides heart-healthy fats and a smooth texture.
Dietary Information:
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
- Dairy-free
- Nut-free
Storage Tips:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Bring to room temperature before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Creamy and smooth, far superior to store-bought versions.
- Quick and easy with simple ingredients.
- Versatile for various dishes and occasions.
- Healthy, delicious, and satisfying.
Conclusion: This Best Easy Hummus Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves creamy, flavorful spreads. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delicious hummus that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy it as a dip, spread, or accompaniment to your favorite meals. Happy dipping!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned? Yes, you can use dried chickpeas. Soak them overnight and cook them until tender before using in this recipe.
- How can I make my hummus spicier? Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of ground chili pepper or hot sauce to taste.
- What can I use instead of tahini if I don’t have any? You can use almond butter, cashew butter, or even Greek yogurt as a substitute, though it will alter the flavor.
- How can I make my hummus more flavorful? Add extra ingredients like roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or a splash of balsamic vinegar to boost flavor.
- Can I freeze hummus? Yes, hummus can be frozen. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- What should I do if my hummus is too thick? Add more reserved chickpea liquid or olive oil a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
- Can I make hummus without garlic? Yes, you can omit the garlic or substitute it with garlic powder or roasted garlic for a milder flavor.
- How can I make my hummus smoother? For a smoother texture, peel the chickpeas by removing the skins before processing.
- Is it necessary to use fresh lemon juice? Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
- Can I add other herbs or spices to this recipe? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with herbs like cilantro or spices such as paprika, za’atar, or coriander.