Creamy Homemade Hummus Recipe

Looking for a simple, creamy homemade hummus recipe? This easy-to-make, velvety smooth hummus is perfect for snacking, parties, or as a healthy dip for vegetables and pita bread. Made with chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, this recipe is packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. You can customize it with spicy, herby, or roasted garlic variations, and it’s a great addition to your Middle Eastern meal spread. Plus, it’s gluten-free, vegan, and ready in just 20 minutes!

Ingredients:

• 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons tahini
• 2 small garlic cloves
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 3 ice cubes
• Extra-virgin olive oil, for serving
• Paprika, for serving
• Chopped fresh parsley, for serving

Instructions:

1. Optional Peeling Step: Place the chickpeas in a large bowl of warm water. Rub them gently with your fingers to release their skins. The skins will float to the surface, making them easy to skim off with a slotted spoon. Discard the skins. While optional, peeling the chickpeas ensures an ultra-creamy texture.
2. Process the Chickpeas: Drain and dry the chickpeas thoroughly. Transfer them to a food processor and pulse until they achieve a fine, breadcrumb-like consistency. Scrape down the sides as needed, about 15 seconds total.
3. Blend the Hummus: Add the lemon juice, tahini, garlic, salt, and ice cubes to the food processor. Blend until the hummus is completely smooth and creamy, about 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding more lemon juice or salt as needed.
4. Serve: Spread the hummus onto a plate or bowl, using the back of a spoon to create swirls for catching the olive oil. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika and fresh parsley. Serve cool or at room temperature with your favorite dippers.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Velvety Smooth Texture: Peeling the chickpeas makes this hummus exceptionally creamy.
• Easy to Make: Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal effort.
• Customizable: Adjust the flavors and toppings to suit your preferences.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, snacks, or as a meal starter.

Tips

• Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• If you don’t have tahini, you can substitute with almond butter or sunflower seed butter.
• The ice cubes help create a silky texture, so don’t skip them!
• Peeling the chickpeas is optional but highly recommended for ultimate smoothness.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spicy Hummus: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of chili oil.
• Herb-Infused Hummus: Blend in fresh basil, parsley, or cilantro.
• Roasted Garlic Hummus: Replace raw garlic with roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.
• Different Legumes: Swap chickpeas for white beans or black beans for a twist.

FAQs

Do I have to peel the chickpeas?
No, but peeling them results in a smoother, creamier texture. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step.

Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?
Yes! Soak and cook dried chickpeas until tender before using in the recipe.

How long does homemade hummus last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze hummus?
Absolutely! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and stir well before serving.

Serving

• Serve with pita bread, vegetable sticks, or crackers for dipping.
• Spread it on sandwiches or wraps for a flavorful twist.
• Use as a topping for grain bowls or salads.

Suggestions

• Garnish with pine nuts, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
• Pair with a drizzle of flavored olive oil, such as garlic or lemon-infused.
• Serve alongside falafel, tabbouleh, or other Middle Eastern dishes for a complete spread.