Let’s get in the International Hummus Day mood!

Looking for the perfect recipe for the dreamiest, smoothest hummus? The secret isn’t in using fancy ingredients, it’s all about the order of the steps! But don’t worry, as we celebrate International Hummus Day on the 13th of May, I got you covered. Here is a simple and delicious recipe, and some fun ideas to go wild making your own hummus at home.

By Little Chilean

@Gaby.o

What is Hummus?

First things first, what in the world is hummus? Hummus is a delicious spread or dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and spices. It is a popular dish in the Middle East and the Mediterranean. You can find store-bought versions now all over the world, but you should skip those and make your own. You won’t regret it.

But is there only one type of hummus?

Although hummus is classically made with chickpeas, you can go a bit wild and change it. So, if today you feel like you need to step away from a “boring old regular” hummus, you’ll be happy to know that you can spice it up. 

I personally recommend adding in some olives or pine nuts. But let’s not forget the ever-changing power of adding extra spices. So, if you’re feeling fancy, why not add some spiced tofu and feta on top? I mean, who needs a separate meal when you’ve got hummus that can do it all? 

Alternatively, you may want to use black beans instead of chickpeas. They are similar to chickpeas in having a mild flavour, and you can prepare the hummus in exactly the same way. You can also make hummus with beans or green peas. And if you want more flavour, just add garlic and tahini sauce to the mix.

But if you’re really feeling rebellious, go ahead and try baba ganoush instead – which is pretty much hummus but made with roasted aubergine.

Ingredients

• 1 can of chickpeas or 250 grams of cooked chickpeas (or garbanzo beans) – They are the base for hummus. The softened beans break down into a smooth paste. You can use canned or home-cooked chickpeas in your recipe. 
• 1/4 cup Tahini – This is a paste made from ground sesame seeds, which makes hummus taste incredible. You can buy tahini, or you can make it yourself. 
• 1/4 cup Fresh lemon 
• 1 small fresh garlic clove
• ½ teaspoon of ground cumin
• Salt 
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil, which makes the texture of the hummus luxurious. 
• Coriander to garnish.
• And a dash of ground paprika to garnish.

Let’s hummus!

Oh, yeah, like making hummus is so easy, right? Wrong. Well, it is actually, but it’s all about the order. And let me tell you, this simple trick makes a huge difference. Are you ready for it? Tahini and lemon juice go in first. That’s it. It’s an ancient secret that makes all the difference. 

So, if you want the creamiest, smoothest hummus around, you better follow this order. After a minute of being blended in the food processor, tahini and lemon juice turn into a paste with a lighter colour and thicker texture.

Now, I know you’re eager to add the remaining hummus ingredients. So, if you really want to take it to the next level, add the chickpeas in two batches and process the first batch for a minute before following up with the rest. Boom. You’re welcome.

And that’s it. You got your magical hummus. You will want to add a dash of olive oil and coriander on top to garnish and make it perfect to celebrate the day.

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