Hummus, a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, has been enjoyed for centuries and is cherished for its versatility and nutritional benefits. This Egyptian variant adds a twist with sun-dried tomatoes and basil, creating a unique fusion that fans of traditional hummus will love.
This flavorful Tomato and Basil Hummus balances the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes and the freshness of basil. It’s perfect for a quick, healthy snack or an easy addition to any meal. Ideal for spreading on toast or served as a dip, it’s both vegan and adaptable to personal preferences.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cans (approx. 1000g) chickpeas, drained
- Juice of 2 lemons
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- 2 ½ teaspoons chopped garlic
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup tahini paste
- ¼ cup liquid from the chickpea cans
- Oil from sun-dried tomatoes (as needed)
- 3 teaspoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Preparation
- Combine the drained chickpeas, lemon juice, cumin, garlic, salt, and tahini paste into a large blender.
- Add ¼ cup of the reserved chickpea liquid and a small amount of oil from the sun-dried tomatoes.
- Blend until smooth. Check consistency and add more oil or chickpea liquid if necessary.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and basil. Blend again until mixed well and the desired consistency is achieved.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Add a pinch of salt or drizzle more oil for richness.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate in air-tight containers.
Did you know?
Hummus is one of those dishes that transcends its simple ingredients to offer a host of health benefits. Being high in plant-based protein, chickpeas are excellent for muscle maintenance and overall health. Combining this with fresh basil, rich in antioxidants and essential oils, this dip becomes a nutritional powerhouse.
Another fascinating fact: Hummus has ancient roots, believed to have originated in Egypt centuries ago. Recipes from the 13th century have been discovered, featuring components remarkably similar to modern hummus. It’s a dish that has not only survived but thrived, evolving subtly while retaining its classic fundamentals.
When making hummus, many might not know that traditional recipes can be adjusted without tahini for a lighter version. Adding alternatives like Greek yogurt can also create a creamy consistency. For those who enjoy a kick, incorporating a pinch of spicy chili powder or paprika can elevate the dish further, bringing warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
Whether you are having a summer barbecue, planning a vegan meal, or need a quick, healthy snack to take to the office, this Tomato and Basil Hummus is the best addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy it in versatile ways – spread on toast, as a dip, or even a side dish – and savor the blend of traditional and contemporary flavors.
