Easy Homemade Hummus Recipe + Video

This homemade, easy classic hummus recipe has a creamy, smooth texture and rich, savory flavor. All you need is a few simple ingredients from a can of chickpeas, fresh lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and spices, and my secret trick is the ice cubes; it is the secret to a creamy and fluffy hummus. 

Growing up in the Middle East, hummus was a staple at our home. It represents the ultimate snack, spread, dip, and everything in between. Plus, it is packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Also, you can add hummus to anything, and it immediately tastes better.

This best hummus recipe tastes better than store-bought and will give you the creamiest and smoothest classic hummus you can make at home.

What is Hummus?

Hummus is a famous Middle Eastern dip or spread that is made from cooked, mashed chickpeas (a.k.a. garbanzo beans) blended with tahini (a paste made from ground sesame seeds), olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. It’s a staple in many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines.

The word “hummus” itself comes from the Arabic word for chickpeas. The full name of the prepared spread in Arabic is “ḥummuṣ bi ṭaḥīna,” which means ‘chickpeas with tahini.’

Today, American grocery stores are full of different hummus brands, and their variations signify how famous hummus has become. Yet, I still believe that nothing beats homemade hummus.

A classic hummus is often served with pita bread or used as a spread on sandwiches. Additionally, it can be flavored with various ingredients like roasted red peppers, garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh herbs for added flavor, and even chocolate hummus!

Is hummus healthy?

Hummus is low in saturated fat and high in fiber and protein; hummus also offers complex carbohydrates to make you feel satisfied and full. I use it as a spread with my wraps or as a dip instead of mayonnaise or ranch dip; if you are looking for something that not only tastes good but is healthy to eat, hummus should be top of that list. For more on the health benefits of Hummus, check out 8 Great Reasons to Eat More Hummus

Easy Hummus Recipe Ingredients

Hummus is one of the most leisurely dips to make and the healthiest items that you can have in your fridge. You can find almost all the ingredients in your pantry. 

• Chickpeas (Garbanzo beans): A good quality can of chickpeas (available in any grocery store) should do the trick. Or you can use dry chickpeas and cook them in a pressure cooker for an hour after soaking them in water for 24 hours. (If you have time, you can peel off the skin for extra creamy texture). 
• Baking Soda: Helps soften the chickpeas for easier grinding and a smoother hummus!
• Tahini: Tahini is arguably the most prominent flavor in hummus. Good-quality tahini is a must for delicious Hummus. I found that Tahini made from Ethiopian sesame seeds gives the best results; check it out here. 
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must in this recipe! I don’t recommend adding garlic powder or pre-peeled garlic. I am using one clove of raw garlic in this recipe, but feel free to double that if you would like a more garlicky flavor. 
• Water: Helps in the blending processor to smooth the texture of the hummus. You can save the hummus water (aquafaba) and use it instead.
• Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed (Trust me, there is a world of difference).
• Extra Virgin Olive oil: Drizzle extra on top for serving.
• Salt: to taste.
• Garnish: Never underestimate Garnish! Ground cumin, paprika, sumac, pine nuts, or fresh parsley are all excellent garnishing ideas. Also, If you still have leftover cooked chickpeas, throw them in the center for a photogenic hummus bowl 🙂
• Ice Cubes: Some people use cold water; but I prefer ice cubes. I found that they give my hummus a lighter color and a creamier texture.

How to Make this Easy Hummus Recipe?

1. Pour the chickpeas from the can into a small pot, add the baking soda, and bring it to a boil for five minutes. This step will make the chickpeas softer and easier to grind and give them a creamy texture. Drain the chickpeas and leave them to cool down.
2. Add the chickpeas to the food processor. Pulse until a smooth, powder-like mixture forms.
3. Add minced garlic, tahini paste, salt, lemon juice, and water (as needed). Blend for 1 minute.
4. While the processor is running, add the ice cubes. Blend for at least two more minutes until you get a creamy texture.
5. Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of paprika, and ground cumin. 

Important Tips:

• For an extra smooth hummus, peel off the skin before grinding them in the food processor.
• Adding water helps to smooth the consistency if needed to get a smooth and creamy texture. 
• Always adjust the salt, garlic and lemon juice as needed. 
• As I mentioned, fresh lemon is required for this recipe, but if it is unavailable, use citric acid or a bottle of lemon juice instead. 

What to serve with this Easy Hummus Recipe?

• Bread: pita bread or pita chips. 
• Sliced Fresh vegetables: carrots, celery, cucumber, or bell peppers.
• Classic Hummus is a great healthy dip for a party, game day, a family dinner, or a spread in sandwiches.

Hummus Variations:

• Roasted Red Pepper Hummus: This variation involves blending roasted peppers into the classic hummus recipe. It offers a smoky and sweet flavor to traditional hummus.
• Beet Hummus: For brightly colored and earthy flavored hummus, try adding cooked beets to your hummus. The result is a vivid pink hummus that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate. 
• Roasted Garlic Hummus: This variation is a must-try for those who love the robust flavor of garlic. You can add roasted garlic for a mellow and sweet twist or raw garlic for a more spicy kick
• Herb Hummus: Fresh herbs like basil, cilantro, or dill can be blended into hummus for a fresh and fragrant variation.
• Spicy Hummus: Spice lovers can add jalapeños, hot sauce, or chili flakes to their hummus for a fiery twist
• Avocado Hummus: Blend ripe avocados into your hummus for a creamy, rich, and healthy variation.

FAQs

Is hummus better with or without tahini?

I believe that tahini is a crucial ingredient in any authentic Hummus recipe. Yet, I understand that some people might be allergic to sesame or don’t like the taste of tahini.

So if you want to turn your chickpeas into a dip, you can get a similar consistency profile, but you will miss out on the authentic Hummus flavor by using nut butter such as cashew or almond butter. Each of these kinds of butter will give a different taste but almost the same texture.

I would call this alteration a chickpea dip rather than Hummus!

Can I make Hummus without a food processor?

Yes, you can use an immersion blender or a potato masher. 

How to Store and Freeze?

Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for a week. 

Freeze the hummus for up to 3 months in an airtight container or a freezer bag. 

If you like this Easy Hummus Recipe, Check Out My Other Dip Recipes:

Best Tahini sauce

Chipotle Guacamole (Copycat)

Roasted Garlic Hummus 

Traditional Garlic Sauce (Toum)

Amazing Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe