Creamy Hummus

There’s something special about homemade dips, and Creamy Hummus is no exception. I remember the first time I made it; I was hosting a small gathering with friends and wanted to impress them with a tasty snack. It was a chilly evening, and we needed something warm and comforting. I decided to whip up a batch of Creamy Hummus from scratch, using fresh ingredients that filled my kitchen with rich aromas. As I blended the chickpeas and tahini, I could hardly wait to serve it with warm pita bread and crunchy vegetables. The laughter and joy of sharing that delicious dip around the table created such a memorable moment. Every bite was smooth and flavorful, and little did my friends know how simple it was to prepare!

What’s In This Creamy Hummus

The ingredients for Creamy Hummus are simple yet powerful. Each component works in harmony to create that creamy texture and rich flavor. The star of this dish is undoubtedly the chickpeas, which provide a hearty base. The addition of tahini brings a nutty depth, while lemon juice adds brightness and zest. Together, these ingredients create a delicious dip that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying.

• 1 ¼ cups dried chickpeas: These little legumes are packed with protein and fiber, forming the foundation of the hummus. Soaking them overnight enhances their texture and flavor.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: This helps soften the chickpeas during cooking, resulting in a smoother hummus.
• 6 ½ cups water: Essential for soaking and cooking the chickpeas, ensuring they become perfectly tender.
• 1 jar (11 ounces) Soom brand tahini: A creamy paste made from ground sesame seeds, tahini adds richness and depth to the flavor profile.
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice: The acidity of the lemon juice brightens the flavor and balances the creaminess.
• 3-4 cloves garlic, crushed and chopped: Garlic adds a lovely aroma and flavor that elevates the dish.
• 1-1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt: Essential for seasoning; it enhances all the flavors in the hummus.
• 6 ½ tablespoons ice water: Adding cold water during processing gives the hummus a light and fluffy texture.
• Extra virgin olive oil, to serve: Drizzle on top for a finishing touch and added richness.
• Pepitas, to serve: These toasted pumpkin seeds give a delightful crunch and are a beautiful garnish.

Making This Creamy Hummus

Making Creamy Hummus is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with enticing aromas. Follow these steps for a perfect dip every time. Each step is designed to ensure you achieve the ideal texture and flavor.

1. Start by soaking the chickpeas overnight in cold water. This step is crucial because it allows the chickpeas to double in size, making them tender and ready for cooking. If you forget to soak them, you can use the quick soak method by boiling them for two hours.
2. After soaking, drain the chickpeas and place them in a saucepan. Add baking soda and cook over high heat for about three minutes, stirring constantly. This step helps to break down the skins, making the hummus smoother.
3. Next, add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for twenty to forty minutes, skimming off foam or skins that rise to the top. Keep an eye on the chickpeas until they are very tender but not mushy.
4. Once cooked, drain the chickpeas and let them cool slightly. Transfer them to a food processor and process for one to two minutes until a paste forms. This is where the magic happens; you want it to be as smooth as possible.
5. With the processor running, add the tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and one teaspoon of salt. Blend until everything is well combined and creamy.
6. Slowly add in the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, and continue processing for a full five minutes. This might seem long, but it’s essential for achieving that dreamy texture!
7. Once it’s blended to your liking, taste the hummus and add more salt if desired. Remember, flavors can deepen over time, so don’t be shy!
8. Scrape the hummus into a bowl and cover it. Let it rest for thirty minutes; this waiting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
9. When you’re ready to serve, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil for a luxurious finish. I like to sprinkle some pepitas on top for added crunch and a pop of color.

Things Worth Knowing

Recipe Notes about Creamy Hummus

To make the most of your Creamy Hummus, here are some helpful notes:

• Storage: Keep hummus in an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh for about a week.
• Freezing: You can freeze hummus for up to three months. Just make sure to leave space for expansion in the container.
• Pairing: This hummus pairs wonderfully with fresh veggies, warm pita, or even as a spread on sandwiches.
• Consistency: If your hummus is too thick after storing, simply stir in a bit of water or olive oil to loosen it up.
• Flavoring: Feel free to blend in roasted red peppers, olives, or spices for a twist on the classic recipe.

How to Serve Creamy Hummus

Serving Creamy Hummus is where you can get creative! Here are some ideas to make it a hit:

• Snack Platter: Arrange a vibrant platter with hummus, sliced cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers. This makes for a visually stunning and healthy appetizer.
• Party Dip: Serve Creamy Hummus at gatherings with pita chips and a variety of dips to keep everyone coming back for more.
• Sandwich Spread: Use this hummus as a spread in wraps or sandwiches, adding layer upon layer of flavor.
• Brunch Delight: Pair it with brunch items like eggs or avocado toast for a unique twist.
• Picnic Essential: Pack it up for outdoor lunches along with fresh bread for a delightful, healthy meal in the sun.
• Garnishing: Get creative with toppings! Sprinkle paprika, chopped parsley, or toasted nuts on top to elevate your presentation.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Creamy Hummus is a truly special dish that brings people together over delicious, shared moments. Its versatility and flavor make it a favorite in homes around the world. I encourage you to try making it yourself; you’ll be surprised at how easy it is and how rewarding it feels to create something so delightful!

Creamy Hummus

The ultimate comfort food, Creamy Hummus is rich, smooth, and bursting with flavor. This easy weeknight dip is perfect for snacking or entertaining. Whip it up in no time, and you'll be craving more!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizers

Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 ¼ cups dried chickpeas
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 6 ½ cups water
• 1 jar tahini (11 ounces)
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 3-4 cloves garlic crushed and chopped
• 1-1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
• 6 ½ tablespoons ice water
• Extra virgin olive oil to serve
• Pepitas to serve

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Large Pot
• Chef's Knife
• Food Processor
• Frying Pan
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Soak the chickpeas overnight in cold water until they double in size.
2. Drain the chickpeas and place them in a saucepan with the baking soda. Cook over high heat for about three minutes, stirring constantly. Add water and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for twenty to forty minutes, skimming off any foam or skins from the top, or until chickpeas are very tender but not mushy.
4. Drain and place chickpeas in a food processor. Process for a minute or two until a paste forms.
5. Then, with the processor running, add the tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and one teaspoon of salt.
6. Slowly add in the ice water and process for a full five minutes until the hummus is smooth and creamy.
7. Taste and add another half teaspoon of salt if desired.
8. Scrape into a bowl, cover, and let rest for thirty minutes. To serve, drizzle with olive oil if desired. I sprinkled with pepitas for some color and crunch.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store hummus in an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh for about a week.
• Tip 2: You can freeze hummus for up to three months. Just make sure to leave space for expansion in the container.
• Tip 3: This hummus pairs wonderfully with fresh veggies, warm pita, or even as a spread on sandwiches.
• Tip 4: If your hummus is too thick after storing, simply stir in a bit of water or olive oil to loosen it up.
• Tip 5: Feel free to blend in roasted red peppers, olives, or spices for a twist on the classic recipe.

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Meet Stella Ross

I’m Stella, and I believe that even a busy Tuesday night deserves a special meal. I love taking simple pantry ingredients and turning them into something that feels like a hug in a bowl. I hope this recipe brings a little bit of coziness to your kitchen today!"