Best Ever Hummus
Looking for a creamy, delicious dip that’s both healthy and satisfying? Look no further than this Best Ever Hummus recipe! Made from simple ingredients, this hummus is perfect for snacking, spreading, or even as a part of a meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself to a nutritious snack, this hummus will have everyone asking for more. Let’s dive into the details and discover why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen.
Why It Deserves a Spot
Hummus is not just a dip; it’s a culinary experience that brings together flavors, textures, and health benefits. With a base of chickpeas, this Best Ever Hummus is packed with protein and fiber, making it a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a nutritious snack. The creamy tahini adds a nutty richness, while fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can enjoy it with pita bread, fresh veggies, or even spread it on sandwiches. Once you make this recipe, you’ll find it hard to go back to store-bought versions.
Ingredient Checklist
To make the Best Ever Hummus, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 15 ounces chickpeas (drained and rinsed; reserve liquid from can)
- ½ cup olive oil (extra virgin)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (ground)
- 2 garlic cloves (sliced)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 cup tahini paste
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a hummus that is rich in flavor and texture.
Tools & Equipment Needed
Before you start, gather these tools to make the process seamless:
- Food processor or high-speed blender – Essential for achieving a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Spatula – Useful for scraping down the sides of the food processor.
- Serving bowl – To present your Best Ever Hummus beautifully.
Having the right tools on hand will make the preparation process a breeze.
Best Ever Hummus — Do This Next
Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get started on making the Best Ever Hummus!
Step 1: Prepare the Chickpeas
Begin by draining and rinsing the 15 ounces of chickpeas under cold water. This helps to remove any excess sodium and canned flavor. Reserve the liquid from the can, as it can be used later to adjust the consistency of your hummus.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
In your food processor, combine the rinsed chickpeas, ½ cup of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of cumin, the sliced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1 cup of tahini paste.
Step 3: Process Until Smooth
Pulse the mixture several times before blending continuously. You want to process until the hummus is completely smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of the reserved chickpea liquid at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
After blending, taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a bit more salt or lemon juice depending on your preference.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle a little olive oil on top and sprinkle with paprika or fresh herbs for garnish. Serve it with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or your favorite crackers.
Seasonal Serving Ideas
This Best Ever Hummus is versatile enough to suit any season. Here are some serving ideas to inspire you:
- In summer, pair it with fresh cucumber slices and cherry tomatoes for a refreshing snack.
- During fall, serve with roasted sweet potatoes or apple slices for a unique twist.
- In winter, enjoy it with warm pita bread or as a spread in a turkey sandwich.
- Springtime is perfect for pairing hummus with a vibrant vegetable platter featuring radishes, carrots, and bell peppers.
No matter the season, this hummus is sure to be a hit!
Slip-Ups to Skip
While making the Best Ever Hummus is straightforward, there are a few common slip-ups you’ll want to avoid:
- Not using fresh lemon juice: Bottled lemon juice may lack the brightness and flavor that fresh juice provides.
- Over-processing: Blend just enough to achieve a creamy texture—over-blending can lead to a gummy consistency.
- Skipping the reserved chickpea liquid: Don’t forget to keep some of the liquid handy to adjust the hummus’s texture.
- Ignoring the seasoning: Taste along the way and adjust the salt and lemon to suit your palate.
By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll ensure your hummus turns out perfectly every time.
Storage Pro Tips
Once you’ve made your Best Ever Hummus, you’ll want to store it properly to maintain its freshness. Here are some storage tips:
Transfer leftover hummus to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you find that the hummus thickens as it sits, simply add a little more reserved chickpea liquid or olive oil to loosen it up before serving.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the hummus. Scoop it into an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, leaving some space for expansion, and it can last for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying it again.
Best Ever Hummus Q&A
Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer using dried chickpeas, soak them overnight and cook them until tender before blending. This will give you a fresher taste and texture.
What can I do if my hummus is too bitter?
If your hummus tastes bitter, it may be due to the tahini. Adding a bit more lemon juice or olive oil can help balance the flavors. Additionally, make sure to use high-quality tahini for the best results.
How can I make my hummus spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper, some chopped jalapeño, or even a drizzle of sriracha sauce into the hummus while blending.
Is it possible to make hummus without tahini?
Yes, you can make hummus without tahini! Substitute it with additional olive oil or even a nut butter like almond or cashew for a different flavor profile, but keep in mind that it will alter the traditional taste.
Bring It Home
Now that you have all the tips and tricks for making the Best Ever Hummus, it’s time to get in the kitchen and whip up a batch! Whether you’re enjoying it as a snack, a part of a meal, or sharing it with friends, this hummus is sure to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with different flavor additions and pairings to make it your own.
With this recipe in your arsenal, you’ll never reach for store-bought hummus again. Enjoy the rich, creamy texture and the delightful flavors of this Best Ever Hummus—you won’t be disappointed!
Best Ever Hummus
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by draining and rinsing the 15 ounces of chickpeas under cold water. Reserve the liquid.
- In your food processor, combine the rinsed chickpeas, ½ cup of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of cumin, the sliced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of salt, ½ cup of lemon juice, and 1 cup of tahini paste.
- Pulse the mixture several times before blending continuously until smooth and creamy. Adjust with reserved chickpea liquid if too thick.
- Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning as necessary, adding more salt or lemon juice if desired.
- Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with paprika or herbs. Serve with pita bread or veggies.
Notes
- Store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
- For long-term storage, freeze hummus in an airtight container for up to three months.
- Adjust consistency with reserved chickpea liquid or olive oil if it thickens.
