If you’re looking to create an authentic and creamy hummus that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, you’ve come to the right place!
This hummus recipe is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, and it’s a favorite for good reason.
With its velvety texture and rich flavor, it’s perfect as a dip, spread, or accompaniment to your favorite dishes.
Why I Love This Recipe
Hummus is more than just a tasty snack; it’s a nutritious powerhouse.
Chickpeas, the star ingredient, are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
When combined with tahini, lemon, and garlic, this hummus becomes a deliciously creamy and healthy dip. Plus, it’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with antioxidants, making it suitable for almost any diet.
I love how versatile this homemade hummus recipe is!
You can enjoy it as a dip for vegetables, spread it on sandwiches, or even use it as a base for bowls and wraps.
The balance of flavors from the tangy lemon, nutty tahini, and earthy chickpeas makes it irresistible.
This is truly the best hummus recipe out of all the recipes out there! It has been perfected over time to bring out the authentic and balanced creaminess that makes homemade hummus so much better than store bought options. Many store bought hummus varieties cut corners and use lower-quality ingredients, which badly affect the taste and texture.
Authentic & Creamy Hummus Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups (300g) dried chickpeas
This forms the base of hummus, providing a rich source of protein, fiber, and a creamy texture when blended. - 3 tbsp tahini
Made from ground sesame seeds, adds a nutty flavor and a smooth, creamy consistency to the hummus, while also contributing healthy fats. - 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
Helps soften the chickpeas during cooking, making them easier to blend and resulting in a smoother hummus. - 2 lemons, juiced
Adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the tahini and chickpeas, and enhancing the overall flavor. - 2 garlic cloves, crushed
Provides a pungent, savory depth to the hummus, giving it a classic Mediterranean flavor. - Salt & pepper, to taste
Enhances all the flavors in the hummus, while pepper adds a subtle hint of spice. - Water
Used to adjust the consistency of the hummus, ensuring it’s smooth and creamy, while also helping to blend the ingredients together.
For an authentic and creamy hummus, it is essential to use the specific ingredients listed and techniques as below.
Method
1. Prepare the Chickpeas
Start by soaking the dried chickpeas. Place the chickpeas in a large bowl and cover them with plenty of water. Leave them to soak overnight, or for at least 12 hours.
This step is crucial as it softens the chickpeas, making them easier to cook and helping them blend into a smoother hummus.
2. Cook the Chickpeas
Once soaked, drain and rinse the chickpeas.
Add them to a large pot with fresh water and the baking soda.
The baking soda helps soften the chickpeas further, ensuring a creamier texture.
Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the chickpeas simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until they’re tender and easily mashed between your fingers.
Skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
3. Blend the Hummus
Drain the cooked chickpeas and rinse under cold water.
In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and a generous pinch of salt.
Begin blending and gradually add cold water until the hummus reaches your desired consistency.
For an extra creamy hummus, blend for a few minutes longer. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
4. Serve & Enjoy
Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl.
Drizzle with a bit of extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with paprika, cumin, or fresh herbs if desired. For a smoky flavor consider sprinkling with smoked paprika.
For added color and flavor, garnish with fresh parsley, cooked chickpeas, cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers.
Serve with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as a side to your favorite dishes.
Top Tips
1. Quality Ingredients Matter: For the best hummus, use high-quality tahini and fresh lemons. The quality of these ingredients greatly influences the final flavor.
2. Extra Creamy Texture: If you want your hummus to be even creamier, peel the chickpeas before blending. This extra step takes a bit more time but results in an ultra-smooth texture.
3. Use Ice-Cold Water: Adding ice-cold water while blending can help achieve a fluffier texture.
4. Make Ahead: Hummus can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. The flavors will develop and deepen, making it even more delicious.
5. Neutralise your garlic: Crush your garlic and leave it to sit in your fresh lemon juice whilst you carry out the other steps in the recipe. This will neutralise the sharpness and bitterness of garlic cloves.
Health Benefits of a Healthy Hummus Recipe
This authentic hummus recipe is not only delicious but also offers numerous health benefits. Here’s how incorporating hummus into your diet can support your well-being:
1. Rich in Plant-Based Protein: Chickpeas are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making hummus an excellent addition to vegetarian and vegan diets. Protein is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health.
2. High in Fiber: The fiber content in chickpeas helps support digestive health, regulate blood sugar levels, and keep you feeling full longer, aiding in weight management.
3. Packed with Antioxidants: The ingredients in hummus, particularly garlic and lemon, are rich in antioxidants that help fight inflammation and protect your cells from damage.
4. Heart-Healthy Fats: Tahini, made from sesame seeds, is rich in healthy fats that are good for heart health. These fats can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your hummus turns out perfectly every time, avoid these common mistakes:
1. Not Soaking the Chickpeas Long Enough: Ensure you soak the chickpeas for at least 12 hours. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth texture.
2. Skipping the Bicarbonate of Soda: Don’t skip adding bicarbonate to the cooking water. It helps soften the chickpeas, making them easier to blend into a creamy hummus.
3. Using Too Little Water: If your hummus is too thick, it’s likely because you didn’t add enough water during blending. Gradually add more until you reach the perfect consistency.
Nutrition Serving (Assuming 8 Servings)
- Calories: 251 kcal
- Fat: 4.4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.4g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sugars: 0.4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4.5g
- Sodium: 6.9mg
Frequently Asked Questions - Authentic & Creamy Hummus Recipe
Can I use canned chickpeas instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned chickpeas for convenience. However, starting with dried chickpeas will give you a creamier and more authentic texture. If using canned, rinse them well and skip the soaking and cooking steps.
How do I make my hummus extra creamy?
For extra creamy hummus, try peeling the chickpeas before blending, using ice-cold water during the blending process, and blending the mixture for a longer time.
Can I freeze hummus?
Absolutely! Hummus freezes well. Store it in an airtight container, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and stir well before serving.
What can I serve with hummus?
Hummus is incredibly versatile. Serve it with pita bread, fresh vegetables, salad, pita chips, as a sandwich spread, or even as a sauce for grilled meats and vegetables.
How long does homemade hummus last?
Homemade hummus will keep in the fridge for up to a week when stored in an airtight container. Stir well before serving to freshen up the texture.
How should I store leftover hummus?
Store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh for up to a week. To maintain its creamy texture, add a thin layer of olive oil on top before sealing.
Leftover hummus can also be used creatively in various recipes, such as a spread for sandwiches, a base for salad dressings, or even mixed into pasta dishes.
This authentic and creamy hummus recipe is a delightful and nutritious addition to your meal rotation. Once you've made it once you will never look at store bought hummus the same way.
Enjoy its rich flavor and numerous health benefits!