Creamy Hummus Recipe

This creamy hummus is a delicious Middle Eastern dip made with simple ingredients like chickpeas and tahini. Perfect for serving with fresh vegetables or spreading on sandwiches, this versatile dish is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s healthy and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you enjoy it as an appetizer or a snack, this hummus is sure to be a hit!

Preparation Time:

  • Prep time: 5 minutes
  • Cook time: 10 minutes
  • Total time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

  • Chickpeas: 1 (15-ounce) can, rinsed and drained (or 1½ cups cooked chickpeas)
  • Tahini: ¼ cup (60 g), smooth
  • Lemon juice: 3 to 4 tablespoons (about 2 lemons)
  • Garlic: 1 clove
  • Ground cumin: ½ teaspoon
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon
  • Ice water: 2 to 3 tablespoons
  • Extra virgin olive oil: 1 tablespoon
  • Garnish: olive oil, paprika, sumac, or za’atar

Directions:

  1. Blend Ingredients:
    In the bowl of a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and salt. Puree until smooth.
  2. Add Water:
    With the food processor running, slowly pour in 2 tablespoons of ice water. Continue processing for about 5 minutes until the mixture is very smooth and slightly warm to the touch.
  3. Incorporate Olive Oil:
    Add the olive oil and blend until well combined. Taste and adjust with more lemon, salt, or cumin as desired. If the hummus is too thick, add more ice water gradually.
  4. Serve:
    Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl, create a swirl in the center, and garnish with olive oil and your choice of spices.
  5. Storage:
    Hummus can be covered and refrigerated for up to 1 week. For best flavor, let it sit for a few hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve with fresh vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers.
  • Use as a spread for sandwiches or wraps.

Cooking Tips:

  • Stir the tahini well before measuring to ensure proper consistency.
  • Blend longer for a fluffier texture; the hummus should feel warm after processing.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • High in fiber and protein, chickpeas are beneficial for digestion and heart health.
  • Tahini provides healthy fats and calcium.

Dietary Information:

  • Vegan
  • Gluten-Free

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 8 servings):

  • Calories: 149
  • Carbohydrates: 17 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Sodium: 152 mg
  • Fiber: 4 g

Storage:

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a last-minute appetizer.
  • Deliciously creamy texture that enhances any meal.
  • Versatile and can be flavored with various ingredients to suit your taste.

Conclusion:

This creamy hummus is a delightful addition to any meal or snack. With its simple preparation and versatile uses, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the rich flavors and health benefits that come with each scoop. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll never want to go back to store-bought hummus!


Frequently Asked Questions:

  1. Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
    Yes, just soak and cook them before using.
  2. How can I make my hummus spicier?
    Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño during blending.
  3. What can I substitute for tahini?
    You can use sunflower seed butter or peanut butter in a pinch.
  4. Can I freeze hummus?
    Yes, hummus can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
  5. How can I make my hummus creamier?
    Blend longer or add a bit more olive oil or ice water.
  6. What other flavors can I add?
    Roasted garlic, roasted red peppers, or fresh herbs can all enhance the flavor.
  7. Is hummus healthy?
    Yes, it’s rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
  8. How do I store leftover hummus?
    Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge.
  9. Can I use lemon juice from a bottle?
    Fresh lemon juice is preferred for the best flavor, but bottled can work in a pinch.
  10. Is this recipe gluten-free?
    Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.