Le Houmous (Hummus)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Le Houmous is not only incredibly easy to make, but it’s also rich in flavor and texture. The smooth and creamy consistency combined with the tangy lemon, nutty tahini, and garlic makes for an irresistible dip. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer at a dinner party or as a snack with veggies, this homemade hummus is so much fresher and more flavorful than store-bought versions. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be adjusted to your taste preferences with different spices or add-ins!

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained and rinsed

• 1/4 cup tahini (sesame seed paste)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for serving)

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

• 1-2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)

• Salt to taste

• 2-3 tablespoons water (or more, to adjust consistency)

• Paprika (optional, for garnish)

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Blend the Ingredients:

   • In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin (if using), and a pinch of salt. Process the mixture for 1-2 minutes until it becomes smooth and creamy.

2. Adjust the Consistency:

   • If the hummus is too thick, add 2-3 tablespoons of water, a little at a time, and continue blending until the desired consistency is reached.

3. Taste and Adjust:

   • Taste the hummus and add more salt, lemon juice, or garlic if needed, blending again to combine the flavors.

4. Serve:

   • Transfer the hummus to a serving bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with paprika and fresh parsley for a decorative touch. Serve with pita bread, vegetable sticks (like carrots, cucumber, and celery), or use as a spread for sandwiches.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 2 cups of hummus, serving 6-8 people as a dip.

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: Add 1/2 cup of roasted red peppers to the food processor for a smoky, sweet twist.

• Spicy Hummus: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or a small chopped chili for a spicy kick.

• Herbed Hummus: Add fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or cilantro for a fresh, herbal flavor.

• Beetroot Hummus: Blend in cooked beetroot for a vibrant color and earthy flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: Hummus can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, let it sit in the refrigerator overnight and stir before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use dried chickpeas instead of canned?

Yes, you can cook dried chickpeas, but make sure to soak them overnight and then cook them until tender. You’ll need about 1 1/2 cups of cooked chickpeas for this recipe.

2. What can I use instead of tahini?

If you don’t have tahini, you can substitute with a small amount of peanut butter or almond butter for a different but still creamy texture.

3. Can I make hummus without garlic?

Yes, you can skip the garlic if you prefer a milder flavor. The hummus will still be delicious and flavorful without it.

4. How do I make the hummus smoother?

For an ultra-smooth hummus, peel the skins off the chickpeas before blending. This takes extra time but results in a silkier texture.

5. Can I adjust the flavor?

Absolutely! You can tweak the amount of lemon juice, garlic, or spices like cumin and paprika to suit your taste.

6. How do I serve hummus for a party?

For a party, serve the hummus with a variety of dippers such as pita chips, fresh veggies, crackers, or even spread on toasted bread for a light appetizer.

7. Can I make hummus in advance?

Yes, hummus can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors often meld and improve after sitting for a few hours, so it’s great for prepping in advance.

8. Can I make hummus oil-free?

Yes, you can omit the olive oil for a lighter version. Just add a little extra water or lemon juice to adjust the consistency.

9. How do I make the hummus thicker?

If you want thicker hummus, simply reduce the amount of water or add more chickpeas until you achieve the desired consistency.

10. How do I garnish my hummus?

Common garnishes include a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, fresh herbs, or even toasted pine nuts for added texture.

Conclusion

Le Houmous is an easy, delicious, and versatile dip that’s perfect for snacking, entertaining, or adding to a meal. With its creamy texture and bright flavors, this hummus is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you prefer it traditional or with a creative twist, this homemade hummus will always be a crowd-pleaser!

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