Hummus Chickpeas with Tahini, a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, easily prepared in your kitchen. The process begins with thoroughly draining and rinsing cooked or canned chickpeas to ensure a clean base for our hummus. These legumes, high in protein and fiber, provide the creamy texture that characterizes hummus.
Next, the chickpeas are combined in a food processor with tahini—a rich, creamy paste made from ground sesame seeds—minced garlic, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a sprinkle of ground cumin. The tahini lends a nutty flavor while the lemon juice adds a subtle tang, and the garlic provides a robust, aromatic kick.
While blending, olive oil is gradually incorporated, which not only enhances the creaminess but also adds a healthy dose of monounsaturated fats. The blending continues until a smooth, silky consistency is achieved, with water added incrementally if necessary. This step is vital to achieving the velvety texture that makes hummus so beloved.
Salt is adjusted to taste, ensuring the flavors are perfectly balanced. The final product is then transferred to a serving bowl, where a drizzle of olive oil can add a touch of richness and visual appeal.
Interesting to note, hummus has been enjoyed for centuries, with origins tracing back to ancient Egypt. Today, it is enjoyed worldwide, celebrated for its versatility as a dip, spread, or even a component in various recipes. Hummus Chickpeas with Tahini is not just a dish but a cultural experience, offering both delicious flavor and impressive nutritional benefits.
Ingredients
1 cup of chickpeas (cooked or canned)
1/4 cup of tahini
2 tbsp of olive oil
1-2 cloves of garlic (minced)
2 tbsp of lemon juice
1/2 tsp of ground cumin
Salt to taste
Water (as needed for consistency)
Directions
1. Drain and rinse the cooked or canned chickpeas thoroughly.
2. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, and ground cumin.
3. Begin blending the mixture while slowly adding the olive oil.
4. Continue to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy, adding water a little at a time if needed to reach your desired consistency.
5. Taste and add salt as needed, blending again to mix.
6. Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl and drizzle with a bit of olive oil if desired.
7. Serve and enjoy!