The Ultimate Guide to Making Healthy Homemade Hummus: Simple and Delicious!
There’s something truly special about hummus. It’s not just a dip or a spread – it’s a gateway to a world of creamy, tangy, and utterly delicious flavors that can elevate the simplest meals to something extraordinary. And the best part? Making your own healthy homemade hummus is easier than you might think. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the best recipes for creating this Middle Eastern delight right in your kitchen, using simple and nutritious ingredients.
Classic Homemade Hummus
Let’s start with the basics – a classic hummus recipe that’s both simple and versatile.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
– 1/4 cup well-stirred tahini
– 1 small garlic clove, minced
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste
– 2 to 3 tablespoons water
– Dash of paprika (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, blend the tahini and lemon juice for about 1 minute. Scrape the sides and blend for another 30 seconds. This step helps whip the tahini, making the hummus smooth and creamy.
2. Add the olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, and a pinch of salt to the whipped tahini and lemon juice. Blend for about 30 seconds, scrape the sides and blend again to ensure everything is well mixed.
3. Add half of the chickpeas to the food processor and blend for 1 minute. Add the remaining chickpeas and blend until the hummus is thick and quite smooth, about 1 to 2 minutes more. If your hummus is too thick or still has tiny bits of chickpea, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water until it reaches your desired consistency.
4. To serve, transfer the hummus to a bowl, drizzle with a bit more olive oil, and sprinkle with paprika if desired.
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
For a sweet, smoky twist on the traditional recipe, try adding roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1/4 cup well-stirred tahini
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (not in oil)
– 1 small garlic clove, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste
– 2 to 3 tablespoons water
Instructions:
Follow the same steps as the classic hummus recipe, adding the roasted red peppers when you add the chickpeas. The result is a gorgeous, vibrant hummus that’s perfect for impressing guests or spicing up your snack time.
Green Goddess Hummus
Packed with herbs and zing, this green version is as nutritious as it is tasty.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1/4 cup well-stirred tahini
– 1 small garlic clove, minced
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
– 2 tablespoons fresh chopped chives
– Salt to taste
– 2 to 3 tablespoons water
Instructions:
Just like with the classic recipe, start by blending your tahini and lemon juice. Then, add your herbs along with the olive oil, garlic, and salt. Finally, incorporate the chickpeas until your hummus is perfectly smooth. The result? A bright, herby spread that’s guaranteed to bring a fresh twist to your table.
Beet Hummus
For a visually stunning and sweetly earthy variation, try adding roasted beets.
Ingredients:
– 1 small roasted beet (cooled and peeled)
– 1 can (15 oz) of chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
– 1/4 cup well-stirred tahini
– 1 small garlic clove, minced
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– Salt to taste
– 2 to 3 tablespoons water
Instructions:
Follow the basic hummus recipe, adding the beet when you add the chickpeas. The beet will give your hummus a stunning, vibrant color and a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tanginess of the lemon and the richness of the tahini.
Conclusion
Making your own hummus at home is not only simple, but it also allows you to customize flavors, adjust ingredients to your taste, and ensure you’re eating a healthy, nutritious snack. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or explore the delicious variations we’ve shared, homemade hummus is a versatile and delightful treat that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Happy blending!
