Hummus is composed of few ingredients, but it is the delicate balance of each that creates the best results. The ultimate hummus is attainable if you soak the dried chickpeas overnight and cook them the following day. Removing the skins also ensures a creamier hummus. And, of course, there is no substitute for fresh garlic, fresh lemon juice and good quality tahini (pure ground sesame paste). I sometimes sauté finely diced lamb, seasoned with cinnamon and allspice, and serve it on top of the plated hummus for a delicious variation.
SERVINGS: 4–6
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight in lots of cold water with 1 tablespoon baking soda
- ½ cup ice cubes
- ¼ cup tahini
- 2 cloves garlic
- ¼ cup yogurt
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- Sea salt
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Paprika or cayenne pepper, to garnish
INSTRUCTIONS:
- After soaking the chickpeas overnight, drain and rinse them. In a saucepan, place the soaked chickpeas with fresh cold water and bring to a boil over medium to medium-high heat. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the chickpeas until tender, which usually takes about 1 hour. Once cooked, drain and let them cool slightly.
- Rub off as many skins from the chickpeas as possible. Remove ½ cup of cooked chickpeas and set them aside for garnish. Transfer the remaining chickpeas to a food processor.
- Start the food processor and add the ice cubes, tahini, garlic, yogurt, and lemon juice. The ice cubes help cool the hummus, break down the chickpeas, and create a creamy texture. Add salt to taste, and adjust the flavor by adding more lemon juice if desired. The mixture should be creamy and slightly runny, as it will thicken in the fridge.
- Spread the hummus onto small, shallow plates or a serving dish, using the back of a spoon to create a groove in the center.
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the hummus, and garnish with the reserved chickpeas. Sprinkle paprika or cayenne pepper on top for added flavor and presentation.
- Serve the hummus with fresh, warm pita bread and a variety of vegetables for dipping. Enjoy the creamy and flavorful homemade hummus. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator until ready to serve again.
