Hummus(Middle Eastern Chickpea Dip)
A creamy, flavorful Middle Eastern chickpea dip with tahini, garlic, lemon, and herbs, perfect for spreading or dipping at gatherings or casual snacking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend garlic, water, lemon juice, oil, and salt in a blender.
- Add chickpeas and blend until smooth.
- Add tahini and blend; the mixture should have the consistency of thick mayonnaise.
- If too thick, add a little water.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or mint leaves and serve with pita bread wedges.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use a high-quality tahini and blend the chickpeas thoroughly. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, roast the garlic before blending. For a unique twist, consider adding a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika. You can substitute water with aquafaba, the liquid from the chickpea can, for added richness. This hummus pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hummus as a dip with warm pita bread, fresh vegetable sticks, or crackers. It also works well as a spread on sandwiches or wraps. For a festive presentation, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika or sumac. This dish is a great accompaniment to Meat Kabobs or Cabbage-Stuffed Peppers.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. If it thickens in the fridge, stir in a little water or olive oil to restore its creamy consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hummus(Middle Eastern Chickpea Dip) contains roughly 458 calories, with 13g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (26% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1140mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make hummus ahead of time?
Yes, hummus can be made a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving.
What can I use instead of tahini?
If you don't have tahini, you can substitute it with peanut butter or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, you can omit it altogether and add more olive oil for creaminess.
How can I make my hummus spicier?
To add heat to your hummus, consider blending in a small amount of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce. You can also incorporate roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor and a hint of spice.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).