Best Mediterranean Hummus Recipe

Description

Best Mediterranean Hummus Recipe

Get ready for the silkiest, smoothest hummus you’ve ever had! This Mediterranean-style dip brings together chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic, elevated by a touch of cumin. My secret to the light and fluffy texture? A bit of baking soda and ice cubes while blending! This hummus makes an incredible dip, spread, or even a side dish for your favorite flatbreads and kabobs. Whip up this flavorful hummus in under an hour and enjoy the authentic taste of the Mediterranean.

1 1/4 cups dried chickpeas
1 tsp baking soda
6 1/2 cups water
1 cup tahini
4 tbsp lemon juice
4 garlic cloves
1 1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground cumin
3-4 ice cubes

Directions:
1. Soak chickpeas overnight, then drain.
2. Cook with baking soda, add water, boil 30 mins.
3. Process with tahini, lemon, garlic, cumin, and ice.
4. Chill and garnish as desired.

Prep Time: 45 mins
Kcal: 296 per serving

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect hummus every time.

1. Soak Thoroughly: Rinse 1 1/4 cups dried chickpeas and soak them in plenty of water for a minimum of 12 hours, or overnight. This rehydrates them for even cooking.
2. Cook with Baking Soda: Drain the soaked chickpeas and place them in a large pot. Add 1 teaspoon of baking soda and stir for a minute over medium heat. This breaks down the skins. Pour in 6 1/2 cups of water and bring to a boil. Skim off any foam, reduce heat, and simmer for 30-40 minutes until the chickpeas are extremely tender.
3. Peel for Smoothness (Optional but Recommended): For the ultimate silky texture, drain the chickpeas and gently rub them in a kitchen towel or between your fingers to remove the loosened skins. Discard the skins.
4. Blend with Ice: In a food processor, combine the warm, cooked chickpeas, 1 cup tahini, 4 tablespoons lemon juice, 4 garlic cloves, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin. Process until a thick paste forms. With the motor running, add 3-4 ice cubes one at a time. Blend for a full 3-5 minutes until completely smooth and fluffy.
5. Chill and Serve: Transfer the hummus to a container, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, drizzle with olive oil and garnish as desired.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile hummus is more than just a dip. Serve it as a centerpiece on a mezze platter with warm pita bread, carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and olives. Use it as a flavorful spread in wraps and sandwiches, or as a creamy bed for grilled chicken or lamb kabobs. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of smoked paprika or sumac makes a beautiful and tasty finish.

How-to Summary

Soak chickpeas overnight. Cook with baking soda until very soft. Blend the warm chickpeas with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and salt. Add ice cubes while blending for several minutes to achieve a light, airy texture. Chill before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned chickpeas? Yes, but for best results, boil them with a pinch of baking soda for 20 minutes to soften them further. Peeling them is highly recommended if using canned.

My hummus is too thick. How do I thin it out? Add chilled water or aquafaba (the liquid from a can of chickpeas), one tablespoon at a time, while blending until you reach the desired consistency.

Why did you add ice cubes? The ice cools the mixture as it blends, preventing the fat in the tahini from breaking and creating a smoother, fluffier emulsion.

How long does homemade hummus last? Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 5 days. The flavors often improve after a day.

Can I make this without tahini? Tahini is essential for authentic flavor and texture. Substitutes like yogurt or nut butters will create a different, though still tasty, dip.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Cooking Chickpeas Enough: Undercooked chickpeas are the main cause of grainy hummus. They must be very soft.
• Skipping the Blending Time: Rushing the blending process prevents the emulsion from fully forming. Blend for a full 3-5 minutes after adding the ice.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Using warm or room-temperature chickpeas helps create a smoother blend with the tahini.
• Overlooking Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning after chilling, as flavors develop. You may need an extra pinch of salt or squeeze of lemon.

Conclusion

This Mediterranean hummus recipe, with its focus on technique and quality ingredients, delivers an authentically smooth and flavorful result that far surpasses store-bought versions. The secrets of baking soda and ice cubes are game-changers for texture. With this guide, you can confidently create a versatile, crowd-pleasing dip that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table in under an hour of active time. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!