Making hummus is straightforward and requires just a few key ingredients. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the homemade hummus making process:
Ingredients:
• 1 can (15 ounces) of chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
• 1/4 cup tahini (sesame paste)
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt to taste
• 2 to 3 tablespoons water
• Ground sumac or Paprika for serving (not obligatory)
Instructions:
1. Prepare Chickpeas:
o Drain and rinse the chickpeas under cold water. If you have time, you can remove the skins by gently squeezing each chickpea between your thumb and forefinger; this step is optional but can make the hummus smoother.
2. Combine Ingredients:
o In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, and a pinch of salt.
3. Blend Until Smooth:
o Process the mixture until smooth. While blending, gradually add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water until the hummus reaches your desired consistency. The amount of water can vary depending on how thick or creamy you like your hummus.
4. Adjust Seasoning:
o Taste the hummus and add more salt or lemon juice if needed. If you like a stronger garlic flavor or more cumin, adjust accordingly.
5. Serve:
o Transfer the hummus to a serving dish. Create a shallow well in the center with the back of a spoon and drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the top. Sprinkle with paprika or ground sumac for extra flavor and presentation.
6. Enjoy:
o Serve hummus with pita bread, pita chips, fresh vegetables, or use it as a spread or dip. You Can store up to a week in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Tips:
• Tahini Tip: Stir the tahini well before using, as it tends to separate with the oil floating on top.
• Consistency: If your hummus is too thick, you can adjust by adding more water, a tablespoon at a time.
• Variations: Feel free to customize your hummus with additional ingredients like roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.
Enjoy your homemade hummus!