Description
This classic homemade hummus recipe is creamy, flavorful, and easy to make in just 20 minutes using simple ingredients like chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and spices. Perfect as a dip or spread served with pita, chips, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients
Main 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 ground cumin
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (plus more for drizzling)
For Garnishing
- Reserved chickpeas from the cans
- 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley (optional)
- Paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Drain and reserve chickpeas: Reserve the liquid from the canned chickpeas, then drain the chickpeas in a colander without rinsing. Set aside a few chickpeas for garnishing the finished hummus.
- Blend hummus ingredients: Combine chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, olive oil, and ⅓ cup of the reserved canning liquid in a food processor fitted with a metal blade. Process for several minutes until smooth and creamy.
- Adjust consistency and seasoning: The hummus should be thick yet spreadable, holding its shape when you drag a spoon through it. If too thick, add more reserved liquid in small increments and process again. Taste and adjust salt or lemon juice as needed.
- Serve and garnish: Transfer hummus to a serving bowl. Use the back of a spoon to create a shallow well in the center. Drizzle olive oil into the well, then sprinkle with parsley and paprika. Garnish with reserved chickpeas. Serve at room temperature with pita bread, pita chips, or crudités.
- Make-ahead storage: Store hummus in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to two days ahead of time. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For an extra smooth texture, peel the chickpeas by gently pinching them to remove skins before blending (optional and time-consuming).
- Adjust cayenne pepper to taste if you prefer less or more heat.
- Use good-quality tahini and extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
- Hummus can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Serve with fresh veggies, warm pita, or as a spread on sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dip
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
