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Hummus
Easy 10 min prep 0 min cook 8 servings

Hummus

Hummus preparation

Introduction

What to expect

A creamy Levantine spread of chickpeas, tahini, lemon, and garlic served with warm pita.

The story

Behind the recipe

The earliest known mention of hummus dates to a 13th-century cookbook from Aleppo, Syria, though its exact origins are debated. Its core ingredients—chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic—have been combined in various forms across the Middle East for centuries. Hummus is a Levantine dip or spread traditionally served with pita bread, and it has gained global popularity as a snack or appetizer, often accompanied by crackers or vegetables.

Method

Instructions

  1. 1

    Drain and rinse the chickpeas, reserving a few for garnish.

  2. 2

    Blend chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, and salt in a food processor.

  3. 3

    Stream in olive oil and water while blending until silky and smooth.

  4. 4

    Taste and adjust salt or lemon juice as needed.

  5. 5

    Transfer to a shallow bowl and create a well in the center.

  6. 6

    Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika and whole chickpeas.

  7. 7

    Serve with warm pita, cucumber, or carrot sticks.

Adaptations

Variations & suggestions

For a silkier texture, swap the water for chilled aquafaba from the chickpea can and blend 1–2 minutes longer.

Swap the cumin for smoked paprika or za’atar, or blend in a few roasted red peppers for a sweeter, earthier dip.

Top with chopped parsley, toasted pine nuts, a pinch of sumac, or sliced olives just before serving.

Make ahead: refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days; let sit at room temperature for 20 minutes and stir in a splash of water to loosen before serving.