Hummus

Hummus, a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, is a creamy and versatile dip made primarily from cooked and mashed chickpeas (garbanzo beans), blended with tahini (sesame paste), lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and spices.

This beloved dish has a rich history dating back centuries and is enjoyed across various cultures worldwide. Its smooth texture and nutty flavor make it a popular choice for dipping with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or crackers.

Here’s a classic recipe for making homemade hummus, a creamy and flavorful Middle Eastern dip:

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup tahini (sesame paste)
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for serving
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons water, as needed
• Paprika, parsley, or additional olive oil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine the drained chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt.
2. Process the mixture until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides of the food processor bowl as needed to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
3. If the hummus is too thick, add 2-3 tablespoons of water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
4. Taste the hummus and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or lemon juice if needed.
5. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with additional olive oil and sprinkle with paprika, chopped parsley, or your desired garnishes.
6. Serve the hummus with pita bread, sliced vegetables, or crackers for dipping.

Enjoy your homemade hummus as a delicious and nutritious snack or appetizer! It can also be used as a spread in sandwiches or wraps, or as a flavorful accompaniment to grilled meats and vegetables.