Ready in: 10 minutes · Serves: 6-8 · Technique: Blending · Storage: 5-7 days in the fridge.
Quick Answer
To make classic hummus, blend chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, olive oil, cumin, and salt until smooth and adjust the consistency with water as needed.
As the air turns crisp in New York City, and the bustling streets begin to sparkle with holiday lights, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with the inviting aroma of culinary creations. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, I’m excited to share one of my all-time favorite recipes: classic hummus. This creamy, dreamy dip is not only incredibly versatile but also perfect for gatherings, whether you’re serving it with pita chips at a holiday party or dolloping it on a festive mezze platter.
A Versatile Party Favorite
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile dip that pairs well with a variety of foods, from pita chips to fresh veggies.
- Healthier option packed with protein and fiber from chickpeas.
- Can be customized with different flavor additions to suit your taste.
- Great for meal prep and can be stored for snacks throughout the week.
Ingredients
To create this luscious hummus, you’ll need a handful of quality ingredients. Here’s what I use:
Hummus Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- ¼ cup of fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- ¼ cup of tahini (I love using a high-quality brand like Soom)
- 1 small garlic clove (adjust to your taste)
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon of ground cumin
- Salt to taste (about ½ teaspoon)
- Water as needed
- Paprika and olive oil for garnish
How to Make Classic Hummus (Step-by-Step)
Follow these easy steps to whip up your creamy, dreamy hummus.
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by placing the chickpeas in a food processor. The moment you open that can, you’ll be greeted by the earthy scent of chickpeas. A perfect foundation for our hummus!
Step 2: Add the Flavor
Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice. I always prefer using fresh lemon juice because it adds a bright zing that bottled juice just can’t replicate. Toss in the tahini next, followed by the garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt.
Step 3: Process Until Smooth
Secure the lid on the food processor and blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You might need to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well combined.
Step 4: Adjust the Consistency
While blending, slowly add water—one tablespoon at a time—until you reach your desired consistency. I usually find that about 2 to 4 tablespoons works best. The hummus will start to come to life right in front of your eyes, transforming into that silky texture we all crave.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Take a moment to taste your creation. You may want to adjust the seasonings, adding more salt or lemon juice depending on your preference.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your hummus into a serving bowl. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top, and sprinkle with paprika for a touch of color. The fragrant spices and the sheen of the olive oil will make it irresistible!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not peeling the chickpeas: For an ultra-smooth hummus, try removing the skins from the chickpeas before blending.
- Using old tahini: Ensure your tahini is fresh, as older jars can lead to a bitter taste.
- Not tasting while blending: Always taste your hummus before serving to ensure it’s seasoned perfectly to your liking.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Experiment with different flavor additions like roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs.
- If you prefer a more garlic-forward hummus, feel free to add an extra clove or two.
- Consider serving your hummus with a variety of dippers: fresh veggies, warm pita bread, or even drizzled over grilled meats.
Variations
- Roasted garlic hummus: Substitute raw garlic with roasted garlic for a sweeter flavor.
- Spicy hummus: Add cayenne pepper or harissa for a kick.
- Herbed hummus: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill for a fresh twist.
How to Serve
- Serve with warm pita bread or pita chips.
- Pair with a colorful array of fresh vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers.
- Include on a festive mezze platter alongside other dips and small bites.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the hummus a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5 to 7 days.
- Reheating: Hummus is best served cold or at room temperature; there’s no need to heat it.
- Freezing: You can freeze hummus for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
In my journey of perfecting this classic hummus, I discovered that a touch of extra virgin olive oil makes all the difference in achieving that velvety consistency. Plus, the vibrant flavors that come from fresh ingredients truly elevate this dish, making it a delightful staple for any holiday gathering.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 2 cups · Serving Size: 1/4 cup
Nutritional Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~100 calories · 4g protein · 10g carbs · 6g fat
Delicious Classic Hummus Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by placing the chickpeas in a food processor. The moment you open that can, you’ll be greeted by the earthy scent of chickpeas. A perfect foundation for our hummus!
- Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice. Toss in the tahini next, followed by the garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, and a pinch of salt.
- Secure the lid on the food processor and blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Slowly add water—one tablespoon at a time—until you reach your desired consistency.
- Take a moment to taste your creation. You may want to adjust the seasonings.
- Transfer your hummus into a serving bowl. Drizzle olive oil on top, and sprinkle with paprika.
Notes
FAQs
Can I make hummus in advance?
Yes, you can make hummus up to a week in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.
What can I serve with hummus?
Hummus is versatile and can be served with fresh veggies, pita bread, crackers, or even as a spread on sandwiches. It also makes a great addition to a mezze platter.
How can I make my hummus creamier?
For creamier hummus, try peeling the chickpeas before blending and adding a bit more olive oil or water during blending until you reach your desired consistency.
