Hummus

The Irresistible Allure of Homemade Hummus

A party favorite appetizer and the easiest recipe on my site!

One night while in Italy, Zelda and I stayed in a little hotel in Mykonos that my grandmother’s family on my father’s side has handed down from generation to generation. On that night some distant cousins and I sat down and talked about something controversial, a heated topic of debate, a true battle between countries…THE HUMMUS WARS!

The Greeks claim hummus as theirs, but Israelis say no way, it’s ours! Historical documents prove it may have originated in Egypt… basically, everyone wants credit for it, like a school group project that got an ‘A’.

And though this issue is heated, hummus can be served warm, chilled or room temp! And it’s so simple and easy to make yourself, from scratch. Just combine a few ingredients and Voila or Ecco!

In the world of appetizers and spreads, few contenders can match the universal appeal and versatility of hummus. Originating from the Middle East, this creamy blend of chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic has made its way into kitchens and hearts around the globe. While store-bought hummus is readily available, there’s something inherently satisfying about crafting your own batch of this beloved dip. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the history of hummus, the key ingredients that define it, and why making it at home is an experience worth savoring.

Hummus: A Global Culinary Star:

Hummus, pronounced “hoo-moos,” is a classic Middle Eastern dish that has found fame worldwide. Its origins are believed to date back to ancient Egypt, where a simple blend of chickpeas, sesame seeds, and spices was concocted. Over the centuries, hummus has evolved and diversified, adapting to the palates of various cultures. Today, it stands as a culinary ambassador, transcending borders and culinary traditions.

The Vegan Twist:

Traditionally, hummus is prepared with tahini, a sesame paste, which gives it its signature creamy texture and nutty flavor. However, modern dietary preferences and allergies have inspired creative twists on this classic. Many opt for vegan versions that omit tahini, achieving the desired creaminess through alternative means. This adaptability is a testament to the culinary evolution of hummus.

Key Ingredients That Define Hummus:

1. Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans): These protein-packed legumes serve as the foundation of hummus, providing its creamy texture and nutty undertone.
2. Tahini: A smooth paste made from roasted sesame seeds, tahini adds richness, creaminess, and a delightful nutty flavor to the dish.
3. Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice infuses hummus with a bright, zesty kick that balances its richness.
4. Garlic: A hint of garlic elevates the flavor profile, lending a pleasant pungency and depth.
5. Olive Oil: High-quality olive oil contributes a silky texture and enhances the overall taste.
6. Salt and Spices: A pinch of salt, along with seasonings like cumin and paprika, adds layers of flavor and complexity.

Crafting the Perfect Hummus:

Creating a delicious batch of hummus involves several key steps:

1. Blending: Combine chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil in a food processor, blending until smooth and creamy.
2. Seasoning: Add salt and spices, adjusting to taste until the desired flavor is achieved.
3. Texture: Adjust the texture by adding water or extra olive oil for a creamier consistency.
4. Garnish: Finish with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, and a handful of fresh herbs or pine nuts for visual appeal.

Savoring Homemade Hummus:

Homemade hummus offers a world of possibilities:

• Dip Delight: Serve it as a dip with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or crackers for a satisfying snack or appetizer.
• Spread Sensation: Use it as a spread in sandwiches and wraps, adding creaminess and flavor.
• Bowl Bliss: Create a hummus bowl by layering it with roasted vegetables, grains, and protein for a wholesome meal.

Hummus

Discover an authentic hummus recipe that's ideal for both dipping and spreading! Whether you prefer it with or without tahini, this recipe can be prepared in just about 5 minutes, ensuring a quick and delicious hummus experience.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Course Appetizer

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 2 cups

Calories 79 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 1 can (15oz) Chickpeas drained and rinsed
• 4 tablespoons Tahini
• 1/4 cup water + 2 tablespoons as needed
• 1 – 2 Garlic cloves or 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• juice of 1 or 2 lemons
• 1/2 teaspoon Cumin
• 1 tablespoon roasted pine nuts optional
• generous pinch of Salt

Instructions

 

• Add all ingredients into Blender
• Blend until creamy, about 3 – 4 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
• Depending on the size of your lemons or how many you used, you may like to add the extra 2 tablespoons of water for slightly thinner consistency.
• Taste for flavor, then enjoy!

Keyword Vegan Food

(Podcast Ep. 4 – Jade in Greece!)

Homemade hummus is a testament to the magic of simplicity in cooking. By blending a handful of ingredients with care and creativity, you can experience the incomparable satisfaction of crafting a dip that’s not just delicious but deeply satisfying. So, gather your ingredients, follow our detailed recipe, and embark on a culinary journey to savor the irresistible allure of homemade hummus—a fusion of tradition, innovation, and pure delight in every bite.

Recipe inspired by Simple Veganista

Kitchen tools from Sur La Table

If you enjoyed this recipe or have suggestions on how we can improve it, please leave us a comment below. Also, make sure to check out other dishes I’ve created or stories I’ve written about food culture – here.