Garlic Hummus Recipe
Homemade hummus is a delicious and creamy dip that’s far superior to anything found in stores.
With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a smooth, flavorful hummus in minutes. This recipe combines chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and a few spices to create a hummus that’s perfect for dipping, spreading, or enjoying by the spoonful.
The key to this easy hummus recipe lies in balancing fresh ingredients to achieve a creamy, rich texture. Whether you’re a hummus enthusiast or new to making it at home, this recipe is sure to win you over. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and offers a healthier, tastier alternative to store-bought versions.
Follow along to make a batch of hummus that will become your new favorite go-to snack or appetizer. This homemade hummus is ready in just 10 minutes and can be adapted to your taste with different toppings and flavorings.
Key Ingredients for Easy Hummus
Chickpeas – The Creamy Base
Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, provide the creamy, hearty base for this hummus. They are rich in protein and fiber, making the hummus not only delicious but also nutritious.
Tahini – Adds Nutty Richness
Tahini, a paste made from ground sesame seeds, is essential for authentic hummus. It adds a deep, nutty flavor and helps achieve a silky-smooth texture. Use homemade tahini for the best results, or a good-quality store-bought version.
Fresh Lemon Juice – Bright and Tangy
Lemon juice adds brightness and acidity, which balances the richness of the tahini and chickpeas. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the most vibrant flavor.
Garlic – A Hint of Spice
A small clove of garlic adds a subtle spiciness that enhances the flavor profile of the hummus. For a stronger garlic flavor, you can use roasted garlic or add an extra clove.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Smooth and Flavorful
Olive oil helps create a luscious, creamy texture and adds a rich, fruity flavor. A little extra for drizzling on top before serving adds a beautiful finishing touch.
Ground Cumin – Warm and Earthy
Cumin adds a warm, earthy depth to the hummus, complementing the chickpeas and tahini. This spice is optional but highly recommended for a more complex flavor.
Quick Steps to Make Easy Hummus
Process the tahini and lemon juice together in a food processor for about 1 minute. Scrape the sides, then process again to whip the tahini into a creamy consistency.
Add olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, and salt. Process until well blended and smooth.
Incorporate half of the chickpeas and process for about 1 minute. Add the remaining chickpeas and process until thick and smooth, scraping the sides as needed.
Slowly add cold water or aquafaba while the processor is running until you reach the desired creamy texture.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika, sumac, or Za’atar.
Tips for Perfect Hummus Every Time
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and good-quality tahini make a significant difference in flavor.
Whip the Tahini First: Blending the tahini with lemon juice first ensures a creamier hummus.
Adjust Consistency: Add cold water or aquafaba gradually to achieve the perfect creamy texture.
Customize to Taste: Add more garlic, cumin, or lemon juice based on your preferences.
Creative Variations for Your Hummus
Spicy Hummus: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a kick.
Herbed Hummus: Blend in fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or basil.
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Incorporate roasted red peppers for a sweet, smoky twist.
Avocado Hummus: Blend in ripe avocado for a creamier texture and a hint of green.
Storing Your Homemade Hummus
To store, transfer the hummus to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the hummus with a thin layer of olive oil on top to prevent drying out, and it will keep for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator and stir well before serving.
Enjoy this easy hummus recipe that’s better than store-bought, versatile, and perfect for any occasion!
Garlic Hummus Recipe
Homemade hummus is a breeze to prepare and boasts a flavor far superior to any store-bought variety. For the best results, you’ll need tahini, a creamy paste made from sesame seeds, which you can purchase or easily make yourself. For a richer hummus, substitute more olive oil if you choose to omit tahini.
- 1 15oz can chickpeas or 1 ½ cups (250g) cooked chickpeas
- 1/4 cup 60ml well-stirred tahini (homemade recommended)
- 1/4 cup 60ml fresh lemon juice (from 1 large lemon)
- 2 tablespoons 30ml extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving
- 1 small garlic clove (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt (to taste)
- 2 to 3 tablespoons 45ml cold water or aquafaba
- Dash of ground paprika (sumac, or Za’atar, for serving)
- In a food processor, combine the tahini and lemon juice. Blend for about 1 minute, then scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl. Process for an additional 30 seconds to ensure the tahini is thoroughly whipped and creamy.
- Incorporate the olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt into the mixture. Blend for 30 seconds, scrape down the bowl again, and process for another 30 seconds, or until fully combined.
- Add half of the chickpeas to the food processor and blend for 1 minute. Scrape the sides and bottom, then add the remaining chickpeas. Process for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the mixture is thick and mostly smooth.
- Gradually add 2 to 3 tablespoons of cold water or aquafaba with the processor running, adjusting until the hummus reaches your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Transfer to a serving bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with a sprinkle of paprika, sumac, or Za’atar.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the hummus with a thin layer of olive oil on top for up to one month.
Cooking Dried Chickpeas:
Both canned and home-cooked chickpeas work well for this recipe. Refer to our guide on cooking dried chickpeas if needed.
Hummus Without Tahini:
For a creamy hummus, use tahini, but if omitted, compensate with additional olive oil or substitute with unsweetened creamy peanut butter.
Garlic Preference:
Add more garlic or use roasted garlic for a bolder flavor.
Using Aquafaba:
This liquid from canned chickpeas can replace water for a fluffier texture. Adjust salt accordingly if your aquafaba is salty.
If Tahini and Lemon Juice Don’t Cream: Increase the liquid content by adding olive oil or cold water if the tahini and lemon juice don’t blend smoothly.
Using a Blender:
A food processor is ideal, but a high-powered blender can also be used. Remember to scrape down the sides frequently.
Enjoy your homemade hummus, full of flavor and freshness!