Hummus, a beloved dip made from chickpeas, has its roots in ancient Egypt and has journeyed across the Mediterranean, gaining popularity worldwide for its delightful, creamy texture and versatile flavor profile. This easy and healthy recipe is naturally vegan, packed with spicy undertones if you so desire, and is perfect to be savored with toast.
The beauty of hummus lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Though traditionally made with tahini, this recipe includes a variation for those preferring hummus without tahini. The result? An irresistibly creamy dip boasting hints of lemon, garlic, and cumin. Here’s how you can create the best Egyptian hummus right at home.
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup smooth tahini (optional)
- 3-4 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tbsp ice water
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Paprika (for garnish)
- Minced parsley (for garnish)
Preparation
- Open and drain a can of chickpeas. Rinse well.
- For an extra smooth texture, simmer chickpeas in a pot of water for 20 minutes, then remove skins.
- Combine drained chickpeas and tahini in a food processor. Blend until smooth.
- Squeeze 3-4 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice into the bowl, adding it to the processor.
- Add a clove of garlic, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of cumin to the mixture.
- Start blending the mixture again. Gradually add 2 tablespoons of ice water to help emulsify.
- Let the food processor run for about 5 minutes for a creamy consistency.
- Add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Blend again briefly.
- Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure everything is well-mixed and smooth.
- Transfer hummus to a serving dish and garnish with paprika and minced parsley.
Did you know?
Hummus dates back to ancient times and is often associated with Middle-Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. The word “hummus” literally means chickpea in Arabic, underscoring its primary ingredient. Aquafaba, the liquid in which the chickpeas are cooked, is a popular vegan substitute for egg whites due to its unique ability to create froth and structure, much like a meringue.
While hummus is traditionally made with tahini, incorporating other ingredients like roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or herbs like cilantro can create exciting variations. In Egyptian cuisine, it’s often paired with falafels or used as a spread for toast. Hummus not only serves as a delicious dip but also packs a nutritional punch, being rich in protein, fiber, and various vitamins. Making it from scratch allows you to control the level of spice, creating a spicy kick if desired.
Whether enjoyed as a snack or a side, hummus is a staple that showcases the ingenuity and simplicity of its ancient creators, continuing to delight taste buds worldwide.
