Classic Hummus Recipe

Classic Hummus is one of the most popular protein-packed cold appetizer dips. This chickpea dip is so easy, all you have to do it blend the ingredients until they’re smooth, and you have a crowd-pleasing homemade dip! Made with traditional ingredients like tahini and chickpeas, this hummus recipe is simple, yet irresistible.

Hummus

Fad foods come and go, and just a few years ago, hummus was all the rage! While most fad foods have their moment then take a backseat for other hot new items to take the wheel, hummus hasn’t lost any popularity over time. If anything, it seems as if hummus is more popular than ever before, and for good reason. It’s a classic, delicious dip that’s always a treat.

I don’t think hummus is going anywhere any time soon. It’s proven to have a longstanding impact on parties and potlucks all over the world! And as easy as it is to buy a container of hummus and serve it for your guests, you’re really robbing yourself of the delights of homemade hummus. This recipe is incredibly easy and always tastier than store-bought hummus.

This simple hummus recipe always makes the creamiest, freshest hummus that has a light nutty taste and a mouthwatering hint of tangy lemon juice. There are plenty of variations on classic hummus that are also delicious, like my Roasted Garlic and Dill Hummus, but I always find myself going back to this classic recipe when preparing for guests. It’s a simple dip that I know everyone will love!

Where did hummus originate?

Hummus is a traditional Middle Eastern spread/dip with a long history. However, interestingly enough, the first origins of hummus can be traced all the way back to 13th century Egypt. That’s why hummus will never just be a fad – it’s lasted centuries in countries all over the world!

What are the health benefits of hummus?

The key ingredient of hummus is chickpeas, of course, and chickpeas have a ton of amazing health benefits.

Chickpeas are high in protein, fiber, vitamin B, and potassium and still only a moderate amount of calories. Because of the amount of protein and fiber, this dip will help fill you up faster and keep you full longer. Come to think of it, this may be the only dip at parties that you actually benefit from by eating it!

Ingredients in This Hummus Recipe

This is a no-frills recipe that only uses the essential ingredients for classic, easy, and delicious homemade hummus.

• Chickpeas – Just one can of chickpeas is all you need for this simple recipe. No matter which brand of chickpeas you buy, be sure to strain them before using but save some of the liquid.
• Chickpea Juices – When straining the chickpeas, reserve approximately 1/2 cup of the liquid. It’s much better to use it than adding water..
• Lemon Juice – This recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, so you’ll need at least 2 lemons to squeeze. Avoid using the store-bough lemon juices, as they typically have a noticeably artificial taste.
• Tahini – This classic Middle Eastern sesame paste provides a deep earthy flavor to the recipe that really helps to elevate and enhance the natural, authentic flavors of the hummus.
• Garlic Cloves – In this hummus recipe, the garlic should just be a light hint that compliments the other flavors. Avoid adding too much fresh garlic and if you like more garlic flavor, add some roasted garlic instead.
• Olive Oil – Use good quality olive oil but taste it first to make sure it’s not too bitter.
• Ground Cumin – This is yet another earthy ingredient that adds to the overall warmness of the hummus that we’re aiming for.
• Salt – Just a little of salt is needed to help enhance the other ingredients in this hummus and make it truly mouthwatering. However, if you want to keep this hummus low-sodium, omit the salt entirely.
• Paprika – No classic hummus would ever be complete without a dash of vibrant red paprika across the top! Paprika provides a delicately sweet flavor that balances well with the warmer, earthier ingredients.

What is tahini and how to use it?

Tahini is a paste made out of roasted sesame seeds. It taste quite mind but you definitely will taste its presence. It’s a Middle Eastern ingredient that’s used in many popular dishes!

If you have tahini left over, put it to good use. You can use tahini on top of many Middle Eastern recipes like gyros, falafel, baba ghanoush. You can also mix it into sesame salad dressing and so many different sauces. If you haven’t tried chocolate brownies with tahini swirled into the top, you’re definitely missing out!

How to Make Hummus

Start by straining the liquid from the can of chickpeas, and remember to reserve 1/2 of the liquid.

Toss all of the ingredients for hummus, except for the paprika, into a food processor or blender.

Blend the ingredient until you have a completely smooth finished product. You do not want ANY lumps in the hummus!

Once thoroughly blended, transfer the homemade hummus into your favorite serving bowl. Top it off with a drizzle of olive oil, paprika, and even some fresh herbs. Enjoy!

More Easy Dip Recipes:

French Onion Dip – a classic party appetizer that is creamy, cheesy, and slightly sweet from the abundance of caramelized onions.

Smoked Salmon Dip – a creamy dip that has a prominent smoked salmon flavor with compliments of lemon, fresh dill weed, capers, and chives.

Queso Blanco Dip with Chorizo – zesty and smooth Queso Blanco made with sauteed chorizo sausage, peppers, and onions.

Cajun Shrimp Dip – loads of shrimp, bacon, cheese, veggies, and Cajun spices all combined into a spicy hot dip.

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