Hummus
This classic Lebanese Hummus is a smooth and creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon. Perfect for serving with pita bread or fresh vegetables, it's a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine.
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
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Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
In a food processor, combine the drained and rinsed chickpeas, tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and ground cumin.
- 2
Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as necessary. If the mixture is too thick, add a little water until you achieve your desired consistency.
- 3
Season with salt to taste and blend again briefly to combine.
- 4
Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and smooth the top with a spatula.
- 5
Drizzle with extra olive oil and serve.
Cook notes
Tips
For an extra flavor boost, roast the garlic before adding it to the hummus.
Adjust the lemon juice to taste for a brighter flavor.
Serve with fresh pita and vegetables for a wonderful appetizer.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- If the hummus thickens in the fridge, stir in a little water or olive oil before serving.
- For longer storage, freeze hummus in an airtight container for up to three months.
Substitutions
- Use canned chickpeas; dried chickpeas should be soaked and cooked beforehand.
- For especially smooth hummus, use very soft-cooked chickpeas and loosen it with ice water rather than extra oil.
What to Serve With
- Pita bread
- Carrot sticks
- Cucumber slices
Common Mistakes
- Not blending long enough, which can leave the texture grainy.
- Skipping the seasoning step can make the hummus bland.
- Using too much water at once can make the hummus too runny.
Recipe FAQ
Can I make hummus without tahini?
Yes, you can substitute tahini with additional olive oil or nut butters like almond or sunflower seed.
How do I store leftover hummus?
Store hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
What can I serve with hummus?
Hummus pairs well with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or crackers.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Rice cooker
Good for steady rice, grains, and meal-prep bowls.
Blender
Helpful for smooth sauces, soups, marinades, and purees.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
Cutting board
Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.
Measuring spoons
Useful for balancing spices, salt, acids, and sauces.
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