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This creamy and flavorful hummus recipe has been my go-to for gatherings and quick snacks alike. It strikes the perfect balance between tangy and rich, making it easy to customize and always a crowd-pleaser.
I first made this hummus on a lazy weekend afternoon and was amazed at how easy it was to get restaurant-quality results at home. Now it’s a regular feature on our appetizer platter.
Ingredients
- Chickpeas: canned for convenience but simmered with baking soda to achieve a softer texture
- Tahini: the nutty sesame paste that gives hummus its signature richness choose a well-stirred jar for easier blending
- Lemon juice: fresh is best to provide bright acidity and lift the flavors
- Salt: adjusts the seasoning to your taste and balances the other ingredients
- Ground cumin: adds warm earthiness and a subtle smoky note
- Cold water or plant-based milk: thins the hummus to your preferred creaminess without diluting flavor
- Garlic cloves: freshly minced for pungency and depth
- Baking soda: key to softening chickpeas so the hummus is ultra creamy
- Paprika: a sprinkling on top adds visual appeal and a hint of smoky spice
- Fresh parsley: brightens the dish for a fresh herbal finish
Instructions
- Simmer the Chickpeas:
- Rinse and drain a can of chickpeas. Place them in a saucepan with water to cover along with a third of a teaspoon of baking soda. Bring to a vigorous boil and cook for 15 minutes. This loosens the chickpeas and makes them very soft which is essential for smooth hummus. Drain thoroughly.
- Blend the Base:
- Combine lemon juice, tahini, cold water or plant-based milk, garlic, ground cumin, and salt in a food processor. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides to make sure everything gets incorporated and the tahini doesn’t stick.
- Add Chickpeas and Blend:
- Add the cooked chickpeas to the processor and blend for one to two minutes until the hummus turns very smooth creamy and fluffy. If it feels too thick add a little more cold water to reach your desired consistency.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste your hummus and tweak salt lemon juice or cumin if necessary. A little more lemon juice can brighten the flavor while extra cumin adds warmth.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Spoon your hummus into a bowl or a shallow plate. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle paprika for color. Add toasted pine nuts or fresh herbs like parsley for an extra layer of flavor and a nice presentation.
My favorite ingredient is tahini. The first time I used really fresh tahini I noticed how much creamier and more balanced the hummus became. We often share this dish during family gatherings where it always sparks conversations about homemade versus store-bought dips.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use within 4 to 5 days to keep it fresh. If the top dries out slightly a quick stir and drizzle of olive oil helps restore moisture. For longer storage hummus freezes beautifully portion it into small containers so you can thaw just what you need.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have canned chickpeas dried ones will work but require overnight soaking and longer cooking time. For tahini almond or sunflower seed butter offers a mild but tasty alternative. Lemon juice can be swapped with lime juice for a slightly different citrus note.
Serving Suggestions
Hummus pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread fresh raw veggies like cucumber and carrots or as a spread on sandwiches. Try it as a sauce base for grain bowls or roasted vegetables to add creamy richness without a lot of effort.
This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy authentic creamy hummus at home with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
FAQs about Recipes
- → How do I make the chickpeas softer?
Simmer canned chickpeas with baking soda for 15 minutes to soften them, ensuring a creamy texture when blended.
- → Can I use plant-based milk instead of water?
Yes, substituting cold plant-based milk adds a creamier consistency to the hummus.
- → What spices enhance the flavor?
Ground cumin and a pinch of salt bring warm, earthy notes that complement the lemon and garlic.
- → How can I adjust the hummus texture?
Gradually add cold water or plant-based milk while blending to achieve your preferred creaminess.
- → What toppings work best?
Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle paprika or fresh parsley to add color and enhance flavor.